marycatherine | ExpatWoman.com
 

marycatherine

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Latest post on 15 September 2012 - 19:20
As Aramex has a published policy of not shipping certaing types of items, perhaps that accounts for packages being opened before they are sent on to Dubai?
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Latest post on 12 September 2012 - 21:40
They are automatically labelled as cargo - but the rate I paid was as excess baggage as she (and the other two) were on the same flight as me. <em>edited by marycatherine on 12/09/2012</em>
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Latest post on 12 September 2012 - 20:26
I have brought my dog 2x to and 2x from Dubai via KLM and Montreal. She flew billed/charged as excess baggage, but technically flew as cargo in that she had to fly from the cargo offices in YUL to DXB via Schipol. KLM should be able to explain this to you. However, that said, the last time I did this was several years ago - dog was labelled cargo I got charged for an extra bag. She + the crate weighed about 30kg. KLM IMHO is the best airline for pet transport (and I know others have had good experiences on other airlines so my opinion is my own based on my experience). In Amsterdam all pets are examined by a vet, dogs are walked and watered, and the last time I came to DXB, she was "upgraded" to a newer travel crate and bedding (I imagine a lot of people whose last arrival is Schipol dump their crates etc.) than the 3 year old crate I had. The air crew was great in reassuring this nervous mother that puppy was on board at every leg of the flight and at the layover in Schipol, while I couldn't visit her, I was allowed to speak with one of the animal caretakers at the pet hotel. I flew 3 animals (2 cats 1 dog) for a total of about CAD1500 from Canada to Dubai but again that was several years ago and prices/times change. They were worth every penny and I would do it again tomorrow. <em>edited by marycatherine on 12/09/2012</em>
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Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 07:17
I mentioned the salary issue because if he changes jobs the new employer may insist the salary is deposited into "their" bank. This has happened to others who have changed jobs. They didn't have loans, or it was before the QCB new rules so I can't comment on a loan transfer being feasible.
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Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 19:09
The Qatar Central Bank changed the lending rules for banks. They can only lend to customers that have their salaries deposited into the bank (same goes for credit cards). So if your salary deposit changes banks this might be a problem/headache. I'd say consult your bank, but often you get conflicting information from them and the Central Bank can change the rules tomorrow - which happened with lending, service charges, Islamic banking, etc. in the past 2 years. Tough spot to be in, is a new car something you can delay until you change jobs (and maybe banks).
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Latest post on 08 September 2012 - 20:00
k9 friends is always looking for new parents. If you do a search online UAE adopting dogs you will find a long list of organizations willing to assist you in your search. Many of the vets here also try to find homes for dogs/cats/rabbits/guinea **** sorry p!gs, you name it, nearly all of these organizations have one available for adoption to the right family. Friends of Animals is often in the Gulf News looking for new Parents. Do a good search, I could tell you my goods and bads but they are my goods and bads, so they're worth what I tell you. Go out, look around and see what the organizations offer. I would also recommend you look at websites for sites like the RSPCA or ASPCA on what they look for in adopters, so that if you haven't adopted before, what it is like in places where adoption is a very serious matter (not saying any of the places here in UAE aren't but SPCA websites often have the same criteria but maybe lacking for environment) ETA - the organizations mentioned are all looking out for the best interests of the animals they represent - none of their questions/queries are meant to be taken as being adversarial. However, that being said, sometimes, simply due to the sheer volume of calls (and some of those are idiotic, for lack of a better word) they may not return your call/inquiry quickly edited by marycatherine on 08/09/2012 <em>edited by marycatherine on 08/09/2012</em>
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Latest post on 08 September 2012 - 16:46
As an alternative, and understandable if you don't consider it a viable one. Could the 4 year old stay with Dad (with, of course, some rearrangements in his work schedule to accomodate school) while you travel with the 2 YO? I can understand you (and the 4yo) would want to stay together, but perhaps it's something to consider?
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Latest post on 07 September 2012 - 21:00
foodnetwork.com has that facility
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Latest post on 07 September 2012 - 17:59
I'd be nervous about HR making statements but not being willing to back it up in writing even in my home country. Perhaps you could ask to speak to one of those at your pay grade who has been able to do the sponsorship of children and/or husband? Surely they could ask someone already at HMC if they would be willing to speak with you if what they are saying is true?
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Latest post on 03 September 2012 - 18:54
Unfortunately, it doesn't matter how you or I look at it, it's the reality here in Qatar. Often companies advertise for certain nationalities only because that is who they can get a visa for no matter how qualified another applicant may be. There are a lot of issues with getting a work visa here, we have to work within the parameters until and unless they are changed. Good luck.
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Latest post on 03 September 2012 - 18:52
Have you tried the Canadian School? They have priority for the children of CNAQ parents but I believe they will accept other passport holders if there's room? It's worth trying.
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Latest post on 03 September 2012 - 18:50
I find that strange, I have used OSN since 2002 and ever since I discovered Fatafeat about 6 or 7 years ago, even if the paid channels don't come in (for whatever reason) fatafeat has been available. As another poster said, do you need to refresh your channels? OSN does that automatically for me now (but only in the past year), maybe Etisalat does not?
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Latest post on 02 September 2012 - 23:05
One issue he may face in Doha is that work visas are allocated according to nationality. If his company cannot get a Pakistani visa (which I assume is his nationality from your post) he cannot/won't be hired no matter the opportunity or his ability.
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Latest post on 02 September 2012 - 20:48
When you deep fry a whole turkey you usually use a large propane burner (the kind you often see at Iftar dinners) and a large stainless steel pot. Check out Martha Stewart or google it - the turkey is lovely but you are working with a large amount of hot oil over an open flame so you have to be very careful. Alton Brown has a whole crane system using a step ladder for safely deepfrying turkey (google it, even if you don't follow his system it's worth watching for the safety info).
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Latest post on 02 September 2012 - 20:45
fatafeat is free to air - you may have to do some searching to find it. Occasionally all the satellites (where free or paid for) seem to shuffle at least some of their channels.
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Latest post on 31 August 2012 - 22:01
Which was the point of my post. Unless there is a market (which you have elaborated on) for an English lawyer in Qatar then the post makes little sense, at least to me. The OP makes a plea for "Do you know of anyone looking for a Lawyer? if so please let me know urgently as things are not looking good for us....." this seems like a last ditch effort rather than just looking for a place where ones skills/education might be required. which is why I asked for elaboration. Sorry for the misunderstanding.
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Latest post on 31 August 2012 - 15:53
Why would an English lawyer be an advantage here in Qatar, with Qatari law? Other than perhaps from a language point of view, unless there is a market looking for a lawyer familiar with the English legal system (perhaps operating a business in the UK)? Sorry but your message doesn't have enough information for anyone to be of much concrete assistance unless you expand?
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Latest post on 29 August 2012 - 22:13
Nearly all pets fly as cargo, even if they are booked as "excess baggage" the difference is the price - which varies from airline to airline. My advice is to contact airlines that fly direct to Dubai and enquire as to requirements and pricing.
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Latest post on 20 August 2012 - 17:09
If you can't change your ticket and you feel you can't afford to "waste" it, you can't afford Dubai without a job. As I stated on your other post, Dubai is expensive (and unforgiving) to those without a financial cushion to rest on while looking for work. It is also a bad time of year to be looking for work in the education field. I don't know what your certifications/qualifications/experience are, but the good employers demand and get well qualified people with good experience. This is not like Asia where you can drop into a language school and pick up work. You need a labour card and residency to work here legally.
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Latest post on 19 August 2012 - 14:36
In order to have and drive a car nearly everywhere in the world, including UAE, you need to take lessons, pass a test, register and insure the vehicle and renew the latter yearly. Don't have to have one to procreate and look after the children! Boggles the mind.
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Latest post on 19 August 2012 - 13:55
Go to the Hilton Beach Side Bar or the Marina Bar. Lots of expats hang out there on Thursday evenings for sundowners and dinner.
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Latest post on 19 August 2012 - 13:51
Unless a candidate has backed out at the last minute, you'll find it difficult to find a school that will hire you, AND provide an RP/work visa, the usual benefits (housing, medical, tickets, etc) - local hires (and that's what you will probably be looking at) are usually spouses of people already working in UAE. What are your qualifications and experience? Generally, good employers ask for and get teachers with good credentials (a teaching qualification from their home country) plus several years of experience. This is not a place where you "drop in" and get work and you do need a work/RP to work legally - if someone is willing to hire you without it, it's not a place that pays well and they will 99.9% be sure to abuse you (not pay you, no benefits etc - no matter what you've agreed to because they know you can't complain about them to the government without being deported yourself). Dubai is expensive especially if you don't have a job. Where will you live? How will you get around? If you think you'll be walking, think again in 50C heat. Do your search from home and come in with the job contract in hand. As for having a one way ticket - what if immigration DOES ask why it isn't a return one? What if they won't let you in? Do you have a plan then? I've been questioned at LHR despite having a return ticket because I didn't have a hotel name for the guy at the passport counter. They asked for proof I had enough money with me to pay for one. <em>edited by marycatherine on 19/08/2012</em>
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Latest post on 18 August 2012 - 22:50
The only time I see the creatures is when a neighbour is spraying for insects in THEIR home. They bail out of there and come to my place where I don't have a need for the pesticides. Unfortunately, this is what happens in apartment living nearly everywhere in the world (including northern North America). You control and keep your home clean. Others may not be so particular, especially when it comes to emptying the trash regularly (and having a tight lid on the bin). Also, they come up the trash chutes, and even if your building removes the trash regularly, there's always a steady supply of food for them. <em>edited by marycatherine on 18/08/2012</em>
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Latest post on 18 August 2012 - 13:30
Leaderpack (located in both Dubai and Sharjah) are very good for moves. Be aware you cannot get your things cleared through customs until your RP comes through, so encourage your HR/PRO in Doha to try and move things along. For pet relocation, I've used Animal Care Centre in Sharjah and Qatar Pet Relocators in Doha - move went without a hitch.
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Latest post on 18 August 2012 - 13:28
I like Saucony because my heels don't slip around in them and the toe box (as Goldilocks said) is "just right" for my feet. Having said that, I can't remember even trying on a pair of Asics but I do know I wasn't ecstatic about New Balance and will never buy another pair of Nikes. Every one is individual (as are our feet). If you can, try to take someone with some knowledge about running form (pronation, foot strike), foot shape (flat/high arched etc) with you. Unfortunately here the staff at the stores are not knowledgeable - my store at home only hires runners and trains them about how shoes work with individuals rather than focusing on price (commission).
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Latest post on 17 August 2012 - 02:48
I'll repeat, it's illegal to use hidden cameras almost everywhere in the GCC including the UAE. You could try to get police permission to install them but I would think they would need some kind of evidence that abuse was taking place.
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Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 21:22
While the hidden cameras may be available, IT IS ILLEGAL to film anyone without their knowledge and consent, not only in UAE but in most of the GCC. Sure, it may be helpful if the maid/nanny might be abusing her position or (heaven forbid) your child. But she can turn around and have you charged with an illegal act. Are you prepared for those consequences? A couple in Qatar were denied a renewal of their residency simply for trying to buy a nanny cam, let alone using one.
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Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 14:06
Is double cream another name for whipping cream? If so, then most of the supermarkets carry it, but be aware it is the UHT stuff, not fresh. Oops, just googled it and got this info from a Nigella website http://www.nigella.com/kitchen-queries/view/1855/ I believe the whipping cream here is in the 35% range so not quite the UK equivalent.
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Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 13:56
I think IKEA's are stainless steel. Sorry I can't be of more help, I bought mine from a restaurant supply store - 18/10 gauge steel - but in another country. If you can find such a supply house in Dubai, it's a great source for good quality pots and pans and other kitchen supplies.
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Latest post on 14 August 2012 - 19:44
In all my years with OSN in two different countries and 5 different residences, I never paid for the decoder - unless the one you are referring to is the "on demand" one. I'm not familiar with that box so perhaps it does cost that much?
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Latest post on 12 August 2012 - 23:07
Well I see the OP has left the building.
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Latest post on 12 August 2012 - 21:44
Are you aware of the (il)legalities of your situation? Unmarried people living together is considered adultery throughout the GCC - technically subject to arrest, jail time and deportation if you are caught or turned in. Do lots of people do it? Yes. However, you should be aware of the consequences. Does your BF's employer know about your proposed living arrangement? I doubt if they would condone it as it would make them complicit so keep it quiet. Do not advertise your status and you will probably be OK. CID will not seek you out but if you (or the BF) tick someone off who knows your marital status, they will act on complaints, if only to tell you both to get out before your are arrested. Your BF cannot sponsor you which means you will have to enter on a tourist visa (if you are eiligible for a visa on arrival) and do regular visa runs - tiresome and can run into money if it goes on for a while. You will not be eligible for health care or any of the regular spousal benefits like annual tickets. The medical insurance should be a big consideration for you as well. Getting a job as a local hire may be problematic as many companies prefer to hire wives on the husband's visa (cheaper for the company) and you cannot work without a work permit. You certainly wouldn't get any benefits (tickets, health care etc.) as a local hire. I don't mean to discourage you but you need to know the hurdles you have to clear before you come so you can make an informed decision.
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Latest post on 12 August 2012 - 17:36
I would be very careful to get all your promises in writing from both the consultant and the employer. I would be [i'>very [/i'>cautious about coming without an offer in hand although you say you have relatives here so maybe it could be doable if you have a big enough financial cushion. Check on the sponsorship issue with your job position. You will definitely need permission from the father (attested letter) to bring the child here without the father. I do know women who have adopted children and managed after a long hard documentation and run around struggle, to bring them to UAE but they were in a professionally designated job in the goverenment sector (who wanted them badly). Good luck
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Latest post on 12 August 2012 - 17:30
http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=186732 You got lots of replies on the Dubai thread you started. <em>edited by marycatherine on 12/08/2012</em>
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Latest post on 12 August 2012 - 15:18
Ask if he can bring bank statements from Dubai that may help get the 6 months worth of documents he needs, which would speed up your RP and hopefully get your maid here sooner. The problem with getting her in on a visit visa may be her nationality. These are questions best asked at MOI
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Latest post on 12 August 2012 - 15:11
The cold water comes from the storage tanks on the roof which get overheated in the summer. The hot water comes from a heater that is either visible in your bath or is hidden in the ceiling. Turn off the heater at the switch just outside your bathroom door. Use the hot water tap for cool water (the AC in your accomodation and the protection from the sun will allow the water to keep cool) and use the cold water tap as your hot during the summer.
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Latest post on 11 August 2012 - 17:48
Try putting a shallow dish of ground roasted coffee in the cupboard for a few days.
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Latest post on 11 August 2012 - 15:28
You might try this substitute - although, I'd try it on an experimental basis rather than on something I was planning to use at a dinner party etc. Ingredients: Yield: 2 cups 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup cornstarch Directions: To make two cups of cake-and-pastry flour (cake flour), combine 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup cornstarch; proceed with your recipe. The easiest way to do this substitution is to put 2 tbsp of cornstarch in the bottom of a cup measuring cup, then fill the cup as usual with all-purpose flour and level top. Repeat process to get your two cups. (I'd resift the whole thing after doing that) If you only need 1/2 cup of cake flour, put 1 tbsp cornstarch in bottom of 1/2 cup measuring cup, then fill and level as above Source: http://low-cholesterol.food.com/recipe/cake-flour-substitute-87689
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Latest post on 11 August 2012 - 14:53
You had better have VERY deep pockets to come here with no idea about the market (you don't mention doing any market research) in an industry that literally has thousands of well established competitors. Your school fees will probably run in the 70,000 to 150,000 Dirhams per year for all three children, possibly more. Neither of you has ever lived in the GCC? Rents for your living accomodation and offices may require a full year's payment up front and they're not cheap either. How will you get around? Without an employer, banks will probably not give you a loan for a vehicle so there's another full cost up front. I think you should do a LOT more research before coming here.
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Latest post on 08 August 2012 - 16:55
If it's the essential oil you're looking for (like for use in aromatherapy) you might try the pharmacy next to QNB in City Centre - they had a supply of Tissand essential oils before the shut down but I don't know if they had oil of oregano.
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Latest post on 08 August 2012 - 01:18
You are selling something, they request money, and you send it? Sorry, paypal works in the reverse or am I missing something?
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Latest post on 05 August 2012 - 21:01
Here are some reliable websites with information about Canola oil. I use it for frying all the time. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/canola-oil/AN01281 http://www.snopes.com/medical/toxins/canola.asp Like many other products, if you buy a reputable brand, you will get a healthy, useful oil for use in your cooking.
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Latest post on 04 August 2012 - 13:38
I use an Aramex account to order from both Amazon.com and Amazon.uk and other retailers in both countries. Often, retailers will not ship to the Middle East so having a "street address" to use for deliveries in either country is invaluable. Often, the shipping is free within the UK and US so you pay the Aramex fees only. The only significant problem I've had in 5 years was this past June when a shipment was held up in customs for nearly a month (someone suggested the inspector(s) were on vacation) but that has been it.
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Latest post on 03 August 2012 - 14:18
The only caveat I would make about joining one of the many church congregations (and they range from the traditional to the evangelical and every where in between) is that prosletysing is illegal everywhere in the GCC, so any activities that might be related to such should be carefully considered. Of course attending services or group meetings of like minded people are not considered prosletysing, trying to "educate" those who are not members of a particular religious persuasion (i.e. Christians trying to convert Hindus or Bhuddists etc etc) is and has serious consequences. Some groups have been warned (to the point of deportation orders issued and then later rescinded) because of prosletyzing in the past. There are other volunteer groups - animal welfare for example, that are always looking for new people to help. If you are from the US - the American Women's Association is fairly active. There is also an active running group (if you run) and they do run in this weather but at 0500 hrs. If you have a specific activity or interest, mention it here, chances are you'll find a few interested people and possibly already an established group - photography is one popular activity as is the natural history people (local flora/fauna/archeology etc.)
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Latest post on 03 August 2012 - 14:08
Technically, you need to be legal - which requires some kind of registration with the government (business license, labour card if employed by someone else etc.). While it may seem the amount you are making is negligible - there are others out there trying to make a living doing the same/similar things and competition should be on a level playing field. That said, do people do what you want to do? Sure. And many do so for years and never have problems. Others will be able to give you the financial/legal repercussions if you get caught or reported.
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Latest post on 01 August 2012 - 21:59
If you are able to sponsor your son, you will probably aslo need an attested letter of permission from the child's father for the child to live with you in the UAE (this is a patriarchial society). I do know women who were able to do so even if the Dad wasn't in the picture (by such I mean, not locatable and not interested anyways), but it's another set of hoops to jump through that take time and perserverence and personal stamina. <em>edited by marycatherine on 01/08/2012</em>
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Latest post on 28 July 2012 - 13:48
Occasionally I've seen them at Giant in Hyatt Plaza - usually around American Thanksgiving time. Sometimes if you ask the management at Lulu (the new one on D Ring) they will bring in certain items for you.
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Latest post on 28 July 2012 - 13:46
You can also arrange to be met at the airport (Marhaba service I think it's called). They meet you either at the foot of the steps from the airplane OR at the door to the terminal. They then escort you to a quiet lounge area (water, juice etc. comfy chairs) while THEY go and get your paperwork sorted, then you are taken to immigration and jump the queue (which is a God send if 6 international flights are trying to clear immigration), THEY get your bags and then escort you to who ever is picking you up or to a taxi. Well worth the money if you are tired and have children and a good amount of luggage.
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Latest post on 25 July 2012 - 15:34
If you do a google search for recruiting companies in Qatar, you should come up with about 5 or 6 - then you can contact them about openings they may have on their books. If you know any companies that operate here in Qatar that employ people in your field you can google their contact details and contact them directly.
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Latest post on 24 July 2012 - 13:23
Women who are employed in certain professions can sponsor their husband for residency - the professions vary and may change from time to time. The PRO at your employer should be able to find out what the requirements are now. As for providing an NOC - I don't think (but could be wrong) that that is possible for a woman to do for her husband. He would be hired as a local hire status and the company would have to sponsor him?