kirkidium | ExpatWoman.com
 

kirkidium

kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2016 - 12:51
Definitely, I don't want to do anything underhanded - their end of probation review is coming up and pending the discussions I'm trying to run through my options - but also keeping them in line with the Labour Law which is a bit brutal - you can dismiss someone with no reason in the first 6 months but you can't extend their probation for a few months whilst you put in place a performance improvement plan. Thanks ladies.
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2016 - 11:07
I'm hoping someone might be able to advise me about the MoL/contract implications of how to essentially demote someone. All the information I can find about changing someone's salary on their labour contract is related to increases. The individual is not performing after oodles of training and coaching (they've been with us nearly 6 months, coming up to the end of their probationary period). I can't fault their commitment but it's just not working. I feel for them as they are so hard working and have two thoughts: 1) either to reduce their salary and offer them a financial incentive back up to their original package value or, 2) to offer a lesser position obviously with a reduced salary. I really don't want to make them redundant Hoping someone might be able to shine some light?
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 November 2015 - 22:05
Yes, I've tried to book them a few times but once they're added to my cart and I proceed to the next stage it all goes pear-shaped which leads me to think perhaps they're not.
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 February 2015 - 19:47
I used to get them in Tavola who stocked a great range. However, more recently Wilton seem to be supplying Spinneys - worth checking out what they have on their shelves; it'll only be a few shades but that may be just what you're after.
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 February 2015 - 18:49
How interesting - our school has advised us it will be shut. But the message we got was that the KHDA gave them a directive not to open. Would have liked the option, especially as the road closures are not particularly close to school and don't start until 13:30!
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 September 2014 - 10:14
pretty much every person I know has been unfortunate enough not to be raised by a trained child care expert, regardless of their nationality.
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 September 2014 - 10:11
I really enjoy the Marriott brunch in Diera, for the kids, however, do check with F&B if a table can be set up in the central area for you. The first time we went (Aug-13) it wasn't a problem, we had a table placed right there and it was fab being able to keep an eye on our kids. The subsequent times (Oct-13 & May-14) they said it would not be possible so we took a table in The Marketplace which is quite a way from the play area and not ideal if you have small ones who like to explore while your back is turned!!! The brunch is actually a combined affair of 3 restaurants; Bamboo Lagoon which is next to the play area but only some of the tables actually have a clear view of the kids - nice atmosphere in here with live music and Haka/hula dancing (the kids love it). Hofbrauhaus is always empty but do some nice German food items, the the all day dining rest' Marketplace which is fine if a bit soulless and has Enteratiner vouchers but set furthest away from the kids area. I think the table set up in the play area is possible if they are busy in one or both of the main restaurants as they use this as "overflow" seating, otherwise they don't promote the use of this space for diners or else their waiting staff get stretched a bit thin. Worth checking though as it's probably our favourite "just because" brunch with kids*. Lots of activities for them, loads of room to run around, biscuit decorating, bouncy castles, light and airy. Plus the staff there are pretty good at asking the bigger kids to calm down and not be so boisterous and hence keep control! (* it's great in summer months when it's too hot to go outside, it's very reasonably priced, especially with the Marketplace entertainer voucher and if my memory serves me correctly it's 12:30 - 16:00, This is great as a get together brunch that the kids will love and you won't feel like you've spent the kids college fund) I should also mention the kids' area is located in a central atrium area - not a separate function room or corner. It's perfect for the summer! Have fun K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 September 2014 - 09:47
We paid for our residence visas last year. Well, transferred my children and started mine again as the last one had expired so I had to do a few visa runs until it was sorted. You might want to go to any typing centre as they'll happily real off the docs needed and process/fees. I was already here in Dubai and went along to the Al Safa medical centre to do my medical test (thinking I had to do this first before I could apply for the res visa). Luckily they have a whole typing centre located there to deal with people like me!! I needed all my docs in order first: notarised & attested marriage certificate / passport copies of myself & husband(sponsor) / salary certificate of husband/passport photos etc... I might add, I wasn't able to get this completed on my first visit as my marriage certificate needed attesting by the MoFA in Bur Dubai. Once all my docs were collected and in order I took them in again and the following fees were charged: Entry permit AED940 (I think this was high because I was already in the country, would have been less if it had been applied for before I arrived) Medical Test AED750 (I had the express 4hr service to expedite the process, there is a slower and less expensive option for the medical) Visa Stamping AED530 This is the residency visa which I paid at the typing office but then once I had the results of my medical had to take to the Dept. of Residency with all my paperwork and submit my passport for res. visa to be put in. Once this was all done emirates ID was AED370 I think that covers all costs. The kids under 15 don't need the medical, other costs I think are the same. As I said before, go along to a typing office (they're located all over the place, do a search on the internet for your closest one) they will be able to give you the process and all the associated fees. Also, it's worth calling DNRD's help line called Amer on: 800 5111 I've found them very helpful - sometimes you just need to ask them to confirm the info they've given you to make sure they didn't accidentally brush over or miss anything!! Do also check DRND's website full of all the info: http://dnrd.ae/en/Services/ServicesGuide/Pages/AudianceService.aspx?ServiceId=233&AudianceId=3 Good luck. It always seems a bit convoluted and unnecessarily confusing, especially if you're doing it yourself but it's not that bad. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 August 2014 - 19:15
Try the likes of Dubai Creative Plastics on SZR, on the right just after the Oasis Centre as you're heading towards Dubai. They made a 3D letter table for me to my design; matched the colour and finish to a sample of a cupboard I took them. Did a great job. Any event/exhibition design company should be able to help/provide a quote for comparison.
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 June 2014 - 16:44
Sadly for us I think they're testing our nerve. We've mentioned we know about the rent calculator, rent committee, RERA, etc etc... they don't care and still ignore us. Last year they blatantly said fine, don't have an increase in rent and we'll give you your 12 month notice.
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 June 2014 - 11:59
It's difficult to know what other villas are going for in this area, you seldom see them come up on dubizzle. I only have the Rent Calculator to go on as the price guide! We live in a tiny compound of just three connected villas. One neighbour is paying about the same as us and the other has literally just moved in - the property next door was vacant for 1.5 months and when I saw it advertised by freelance agents on Dubizzle they had it listed at 40 - 50% more than what we pay! However, back to us, I know I've made a rod for my own back by offering to pay a small increase last year when we didn't need to but we would like to stay here after the next year - I'm scared stiff what the new rental prices may be in Dubai n a year's time if we get given a no n-renewable contract. We would have gone to the Rent Committee last year but as they had a differing opinion to RERA regarding the renewable/non-renewable aspect of the new contract we thought it a less risky option to negotiate a small increase instead. This time round the LL are having none of it. I wish they'd bring back the rule where the tenant was safe for 2 years after a new contract or change.
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 June 2014 - 00:03
Well, this is my concern, and that's why I hoped someone may have been through a similar situation........ last year when we went through this I called the Rent Committee who categorically said no, the LL should abide by rent calculator and they had to issue another contract with same terms as existing contract ie renewable. However, they advised I call RERA just to verify.... when I called RERA they said the same about abiding by the rent calculator but with regards to the change in contract seemed to suggest that if the LL wanted to change then that was his prerogative. It's due to the lack of consensus between RC and RERA regarding the new contract that we didn't go ahead and lodge a case with RC and instead managed to settle on a small increase last year. However, this time the LL Agency is being quite forceful insisting the property value is 40% more than we currently pay so we should be happy with a mere 12% increase. It's such an unnecessary stress every year; they used to be quite reasonable but these last couple of years have seen a ruthless side emerging. <em>edited by kirkidium on 19/06/2014</em>
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 April 2014 - 13:49
Fab, thanks ladies - it's for my sister who's visiting so I appreciate not having to waste time on a wild goose chase!!! K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 March 2014 - 20:41
Ask your broker to get a quote which had MHD underwritten. It is possible to get a private insurance with pre existing conditions cobered- albeit it to a lifetime limit of claims. Our broker is al ahlia i think and our cover is with interglobal. And we have it privately, not through a company scheme. For comparison, me, my husband and our first child come to about AED 40k pa and all other children are covered for free. Not sure whether dementia would be included but worth asking them. Thinking about it, they've never asked us to complete a medical form stating pre-existing conditions. Good luck K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 December 2013 - 19:09
You would be wise to go and visit the DED and find out from them what options are open to you. We set up initially in the Freezone as we were led to believe it was easier, we'd have more control, we wouldn't have a problem working in Dubai. Then we found this was not the case, apart from the possibility to register the company using a flexi desk in the freezone (as compared to an office rental in Dubai) it was about the same price. Also, when you set up in Dubai there are different types of license you can get - a professional license where you provide a service like consultancy etc... does not require a local sponsor who owns 51%. Instead you have a local agent who has no ownership but is required to set up the company and sign for license renewals - obviously you pay an annual fee but that's it. That being said, if you provide a service you will need to be approved by the necessary governmental department which covers that discipline. The process to set up in Dubai is pretty straightforward and can be understood by going and talking to DED or it may even be on their website. We wasted a lot of time starting up in the freezone only to be told we needed to have a company set up in Dubai. It really does depend on what you're trying to do - don't listen to blanket statements and scare stories, go and speak to the relevant authorities or at least provide more detailed info so people may tailor their responses to be more helpful. All the best. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 December 2013 - 21:13
Looks like things have changed since a few years ago. Just been browsing the fee framework on KHDA website http://www.khda.gov.ae/CMS/WebParts/TextEditor/Documents/FeeFrameWorkEnApril2012.pdf In particular, with reference to registration fees for new students: "A school may charge up to 30% of the school’s tuition fees as an admission fee to confirm that selected students will opt to take up the offered places. This fee should be deducted from the total tuition fees for the academic year in which the admission is being sought." Also looks like the school can keep applying for annual fee increases under the exception for new infrastructure clause - they've been granted an increase in fees due to adding another building which won't be ready in time....... so presumably they'll just apply to have another fee increase next year...... I have been blessed with many children!!!
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 December 2013 - 20:36
What on earth is the 3.5 k bit for if its refundable? I don't remember being asked to pay any refundable deposit... anyone else? I think it's a kind of bond that you place to show intent to take the seat - it's non-refundable if you don't show up or if you don't give a full term's notice of leaving. But that's why I don't understand what the advance payment towards the first term's fees are for......... I understood a few years ago the refundable deposit was 6k to secure the child's seat. Then the KHDA required them to lower it to about 3.5k and parents got a rebate of the difference.
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 December 2013 - 19:53
Thanks Scribs, I think I'll do that. I just don't want to seem funny about it if it's what all the schools are doing nowadays. I'm grateful to have the places, especially when lots of people have a really stressful time getting them. Just had my eyes out on stalks a bit, I was expecting a much lower deposit to secure the seats!!! Does anyone else have any experience?
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 December 2013 - 19:41
........ is this normal?? I don't mind, and was expecting, to pay a non-refundable deposit but I've just been informed I've got 3 days to find 20k ....... (10k per child) 3.5 k is refundable when they leave the school and the remaining 6.5k is to be deducted from the first term's fees, so in affect an advance fee payment. I'm pleased to be offered the places but feel a bit winded with the price tag at next to no notice!!! For some reason I was under the impression that schools weren't allowed to ask for fees before the first day of term. Is anyone able to advise? TIA K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 October 2013 - 19:40
It's nice chopped up and added to the ragu for a spaghetti bolognaise. Or simply shredded and added to salad. Also nice sliced and added with whatever peppers and corgettes with fish, sprinkle with a little olive oil and lemon and fish, then wraped en papillote and baked for 20 mins. Love the faint aniseed flavour.
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 September 2013 - 12:53
You'll def be able to find something with those criteria. Call agents advertising properties in the areas you are interested in (not necessarily 5 beds). They'll have other properties on their books or know of "friends" who do which will be what you're looking for. Don't be shy to pester people. Good luck in your search. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 September 2013 - 12:48
Zabeel Park is dissected by SZR. Sounds like you were at the smaller of the two parts on the Zabeel side. The other, larger part of the park is opposite Karama - easier to have a look at a map. There is a footbridge connecting the two parts of the park but you have to pay to get into the park to cross it. If you're coming from New Dubai, take trade centre roundabout and follow signs to Bur Dubai or just follow the metro line. Turn right into the parking after the Jafiliya Metro station/Emarat Petrol Stn. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 September 2013 - 22:20
Try M&S. Although I bought some for one of my daughters and she has quite a flat bottom and they are a little baggy even though I bought 2 sizes smaller.... not a good look for underwear! My other two have more curves and they'd fill them much better! K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 September 2013 - 20:23
Hmm, you may want to check that. They may have had a bit of a re-development since I was there and enlarged their rooms. However, the Superior rooms always used to be doubles and the Deluxe rooms had the extra partitioned sitting area with the two sofa beds. I never stayed in one but have heard people saying they were great but they had to pass through it to access the bathroom. I've always stayed with my three kids in our room, having baby twins and a 5 year old we're not keen on interconnecting rooms just yet! I guess it depends on the age of the children. We take our own pop up travel cots for the little ones to avoid the inevitable running around or disappointment of not getting two cots even though we might have booked them in advance. However, more recently now they're in proper beds we opt for a twin queen room and they share a bed and the third child sleeps on a sofa or extra matress. Quite often we don't bother telling the hotel we're bring kids with us, just book twin rooms. The places we've stayed at with no issues are: Hilton Resort & Spa, RAK King Twin Plus room Had a sofa also which could fit a small child. Golden Tulip Khasab Twin queen beds Le Meridien Al Aqah Large twin Rotana Al Aqah executive twin Royal Beach Motel/Hotel 2 bedroom bungalow Miramar al Aqah Deluxe Hope you find somewhere nice and enjoy a nice break K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 September 2013 - 22:17
.....for essential oils that is, not sure about the beeswax.
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 September 2013 - 22:16
Have you tried Neal's Yard? They've got a branch in Wafi and i've seen a stall in Marina Mall too. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 September 2013 - 22:11
Although not exactly what you're looking for, my dad hired a harley tourer from a company in DIP (can't remember the name but a quick google search should pull it up). The manager suggested that he met up with the local HOG chapter and take a ride out with them. Well, it entailed meeting up at their rendezvous service station on the al Khail road. I believe they head out every weekend. The group were really welcoming, took interest in his riding abilities and placed him appropriately in their formation and gave him a run down of their expectations/ riding rules etc... Then they went off, over to Hatta, route through the mountains then an unexpected stop to meet some of their friends who had camped out in the desert. The had bbq breakfast which was a complete surprise. All in all it was a fabulous trip. The group were super welcoming and hospitable. This is not the kind of thing my dad would ever normally do, he's usually a bit of a loner and he had a fabulous time. The details of the meet time and location were supplied by the bike rental owner who was equally as kind and thoughtful as the Harley club members. He's also hired a bike from the Harley shop on SZR on an earlier visit who just gave him the bike and left him to his own devices. Of the two he'll go back to DIP if he hires a bike again! K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 September 2013 - 20:54
Many thanks for your responses, it's much appreciated. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 September 2013 - 20:28
That's good to know. Do you do any business with anyone outside the UAE? I'm wondering if that could be a catch or if i need to be aware of any rules in that regard? I need to make a decision of whether to shut down the FZ company and move our visas to the professional license company when it's set up. I don't know if there's any sense keeping two. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 September 2013 - 19:40
Thanks for your replies ladies. As it's consultancy we're looking at the Professional License. We don't deal in any products or commodities. Starsouthern, could you tell me what the local agent does? I mean obviously we pay them an annual fee but apart from that do we need to get signatures from them for things? And do we need to be careful about seeking a particular person or will anyone do ie do they need to have wasta? I've approached Key Business amoung other companies and am still waiting to hear back from them as it happens! If anyone else has any experience or advice to share i'd appreciate. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 September 2013 - 12:02
So, like another poster and many more I should imagine, I set up my company in the Freezone. I offer a consultancy service and have one client abroad. I have now been approached about opportunities within Dubai and find that although I had assurances I could offer my services with the FZ license (by people within FZ company formation departments and senior personnel) this is not the case...... Highly frustrating, I know I know, you live and learn. I'm not looking for sympathy or "I told you so"!! So now I'm going through the joyful process of righting the wrongs and setting up a Professional License company through DED. My concern is it seems quiet straightforward. I've been told I don't need to set up a bank account, don't need to provide some kind of bond, don't need to appoint an auditor.......I'm sure there's more. I'm suspicious there's a catch or something that's going to come and bite me once I've gone through the time money and effort to set up this new company. All our residence visas are through the FZ company but is there any sense in keeping both companies? Could I have clients both here and abroad with a DED professional license? If so would it be better to transfer our visas once the new company is set up, then close down the first company? It's a logistical quagmire but I want to get it all sorted. I feel like we've already made a huge financial mistake by setting up in the FZ guided by bad advice and would like any advice or a sanity check about setting up in Dubai then closing down the FZ company. TIA K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 September 2013 - 12:39
Thanks for coming back. I called HSBC and they advised transfers can only be paid from current accounts :o( Oh well, worth a try!! K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 September 2013 - 08:50
Scotchanddiet, do you mind me asking which bank you're with? Having to pay 3 x school fees off our own backs I'm keen to learn if there's a more manageable way to do it!!! TIA, K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 22:03
It's safest not to keep them here!!
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 21:49
No, that should be fine, your HR dept has done it for you (our company folded so i had to do the legwork myself). But take the cancellation paperwork with you when you do your visa run. They asked to see it when i exited from the UAE side the first time. No problems after that for me. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 21:45
Dinner for 17:00 then wind down and bed for 19:00. It may be lights out at that time but they're awake until at least 20:00, then awake at some other-worldly hour. Usually prowling around by 05:30 or 06:00 on a good day. They get plenty of physical activity every day then calmer reading or watching Nat Geo Wild before bed but they'll never sleep in!! K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 21:39
You can view the planes from upstairs in T1, where Costa and some other outlets are. There's a cafe court area and large window looking out at all the airplanes taxiing in and out. Killed one day over the summer for us!! Picnic breakfast in the desert with your own personal airshow beats this hands down though!!! K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 21:23
Just for clarity, your visa was cancelled not simply expired? I ask because my residence visa expired earlier this year and i assumed it would automatically be cancelled and hence i could start doing visa runs. At the time my husband was changing jobs so i was waiting for his new reidence visa before he could sponsor me ... Another story. Thank goodness i called immigration just to check. It turns out cancelling the visa is not automatic when the residence expires. You have to go to immigration to actively cancel it. They advise how many days you have to leave the country at that point, then you can start visa runs. Apparently if i'd tried to do a visa run on an expired visa i wouldn't have been let back in!!! That would have been a nightmare as i planned to pop to Hatta border while the kids were in school and be back in time to collect them!!! After that i ended up doing visa runs for about 3 months with no issue. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 14:12
I only sneaked a tiny peice from the thigh but it was pretty yummy. I was concerned that it would perhaps be dry but it wasn't. Can't wait til dinner!!! Lettuce wraps if I can't find pancakes in the next 3 hours!!! K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 13:29
The one at MoE had three this morning in amongst the roast chickens. Not the pre packaged roast ones which were in their own cabinet to the left. I'll keep looking, thanks for the suggestions. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 12:19
Have you tried the Organic supermarket? I think you can call them to see if they have it in stock
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 12:01
I've not tried them myself yet but been recommended a company called fresh2door.ae Perhaps someone else has some experience? K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 July 2013 - 14:42
Success!!! I did call DM this morning after a lot of scouring their website for the Pest Control Section. Two men turned up only a few hours later and busied themselves killing the bees and breaking the hive. I am so relieved to be rid of the bees but the hive is hanging there, destroyed and dripping honey which is such a sad sight. For anyone else in the same situation, forget the crappy pest control companies here. Call DM direct, they were prompt, efficient and free (discretionary tips aside!) DM Call Center: 800 900 K P.S. Admin it wouldn't hurt to have this info on the "Pest Control" section of this site. All very good having tips on how to avoid pests but more often than not we're concerned because it's too late and they're already here!!!
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 July 2013 - 09:15
On a trip to Borneo I was looking for all sorts of repellents especially as we were travelling with a baby. A friend of mine who grew up in Malaysia advised to pop into any chemist when we got there and buy some readily available mosquito patches. They're little foil packed squares impregnated with what smells like Citronella (although I've never found Citronella I've bought here or in Europe to be any use) and with adhesive on the reverse. DH and I slathered ourselves in high concentration DEET spray and put a tab or two on the back of DD's clothing during the days then stuck a tab above our beds at night. DD wasn't bitten at all but DH and I were so we all switched to the tabs. The little tabs cost the equivalent of Dhs a pack of 10 which is a bonus. I swear by them now and get DH to grab handfuls of the packets if he's ever out that way. I looked for them online but without success. Obviously we were in Malaysia not Thailand but I'm sure they may have the same, perhaps any Thai ladies or similar might be able to advise? Have a fab trip! K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 July 2013 - 08:59
I'm currently waiting for a delivery. I ordered on Monday (late pm) and got a message both late last night and then again this morning to say the order will be delivered by DHL within 24hrs. I'll let you know if it does indeed materialise. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 June 2013 - 20:41
Best of luck with your pregnancy, it's such a special time in your life. Sadly school enrollments are a complete hit and miss scenario. Even registering from birth is a lottery. I have two friends who gave birth in the same month, registered their babies at the same time and only one was offered a place 4 years later....both called periodically to keep on top of the situation and the one that wasn't offered a place wasn't offered any any info as to why they weren't successful. I'm not trying to put you off but sometimes even when we try to be as proactive and organised as possible the cards seem against us. Enjoy the "now", make plans for the future, but don't take it too hard if things don't work out as you would like. Dubai is a funny place!!! K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 June 2013 - 20:32
Lol. Silly me. My first thought was: aren't they referred to as Shisha pipes or Hoohkas here?!!!! K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2013 - 22:05
I'm sure I saw large rolls of this at Ikea a few months back. I'm sure there are local distributors also that won't have you over a barrel. Perhaps try the Library distributor shop on SZR, between interchange 3 & 2 on the same side as Oasis centre. K <em>edited by kirkidium on 30/05/2013</em>
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2013 - 21:45
Cleopatra Spa at Wafi use Elemis. It's where I've bought gift packs from in the past. I think if you get a Wafi Card (free, just apply at the Wafi customer service desk) you get 15% discount. They also sometimes have promotions on overstocked items. K
kirkidium
102
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2013 - 21:32
Hmm, when I plan a party for my children, it's exactly that; aimed at their interests and for their enjoyment. I'm not thinking of impressing their friend's parents. And if they receive gifts I try to explain the reason and thought behind the act of giving not the actual gift. K
 
 
How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

How to apply for Germany VBL Pension Refund as an expatriate | Germany Pension Refund

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai: Where to Get One and Package Prices

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

These Are the World's Most Expensive Cities To Live in 2024

Dubai ranked as one of the best cities to work in 2024

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

Expat Author Robyn Fok's 'Under the Mango Tree' Deals With Pet Grief & Loss

Expat Wife, Happy Life: Interview With Expat Author Florence Reisch

(Images: Supplied)

Expat Interview: Meet Florence Reisch, Author of 'Expat Wife, Happy Life!'

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

10 Reasons Why the UAE is a Popular Choice for Expat Women

6 Common Fears of Moving Abroad By Yourself and How to Overcome Them

Moving to the UAE Alone: 6 Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

These Baby Travel Essentials Are Must-Haves For Your Next Family Getaway

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

How Do I Obtain a UAE Golden Visa? Requirements, Eligibility, and Process Explained

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

A Newcomer to the UAE? What to Consider When Choosing a Bank for Opening an Account

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

Why you shouldn't upload your resume on your LinkedIn profile

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Upload a Resume to Your LinkedIn Profile

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing