marycatherine | ExpatWoman.com
 

marycatherine

marycatherine
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Latest post on 04 January 2015 - 08:02
I said the QCS gives preference to Canadian passport holders, not that they don't accept others if there is a place available - other passport holders are considered after Canadians. As for why Chouiefat has not responded I can't tell you personally. Perhaps you should contact their umbrella organization, SABIS and ask them why you're not getting a response. I know they have a website. I do not have contacts at Chouiefat, nor do I know anyone who sends their children there. I would assume it's mainly Asian families based solely on observation, and we don't get a whole lot of Asian ladies posting on this forum.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 04 January 2015 - 07:25
The Canadian School gives preference (a) to children of CNAQ and University of Calgary and (b) Canadian passport holders. Choueifat is a chain of schools throughout the region. They have a reputation of testing, testing, testing, and when not testing, testing again. They tend to hire newly qualified teachers and these teachers are required to stick to the SABIS teaching program - no deviation. You haven't received any responses because nearly all schools are on their December break, most returning on January 4th so no one at the school is available and many families travel at this time.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 03 January 2015 - 08:15
I haven't posted because I couldn't speak to your specific question. I buy and trade my carpets at the Blue Souq (Central Souq) in Sharjah at Sheba Carpets. They have a website you can google. I have always been very happy with my carpets and the service is wonderful
marycatherine
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Latest post on 28 December 2014 - 12:48
I think it is Sun and Sand Sports on the 3rd level of City Centre that has a small connected shop with Columbia gear including shoes? You may have some luck there.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 December 2014 - 08:51
Take advantage of the opportunities in the US
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 December 2014 - 13:30
I get my hair cut at Desert Princess and I am very happy with the results and the service. You may find it difficult to get an appointment at Glow or DP right now because of the Christmas and New Year rush. Good luck wherever you go. It's always an adventure trying to find a salon and services that one is happy with anywhere in the world
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 December 2014 - 08:35
[i'>"You can travel freely once you get your Qatar Residence Permit (RP), which should take about four to six weeks after you arrive into Qatar. If you need to leave for an emergency situation during this time, they can apply for a new visa for you to return back to Qatar."[/i'> The above does not include the information that when you have your RP you [b'>WILL [/b'>require an exit permit to exit the country - that permit must be authorized by your employer, otherwise, you don't exit. The first visa you enter on I'm not sure about exiting without an exit permit. Some employers will allow you to apply for a multiple exit permit that is good for one year. There are many who won't and I don't know which category SIDRA falls into. However, I do know the entire RP application process will have to be started again if you exit during that 4 - 6 week process. I don't know about SIDRA, but my quasi-government employer charges the employee if the RP process has to be restarted
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 December 2014 - 21:01
I know people who have done it and the results were good. However, it is a very involved process just because of safety considerations. It is NOT something you do indoors and NOT something you do without a great deal of preparation for safety concerns. You may want to do some more research before you undertake the process.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 14 December 2014 - 08:57
I have lived in the GCC for 15+ years and I would never consider buying here. One of the primary reasons is that the rules/laws can change with the blink of an eye and as an expat, I would have to fight hard for any recourse. Just look at the thread below about people who "won" their court cases and are still out their investment and now their court fees. If you have the stomach for it and deep pockets and money you can afford to say goodbye to - go for it. However, I would rather invest in my home country (which I have done) and have a secure future with my roof over my head if I had to leave tomorrow. And we are all a redundancy away from having to leave in 30 days.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 10 December 2014 - 08:43
Strongly suggest you contact the airline the cat will be flying with (I prefer KLM but I know others have used Qatar Air with no issues). They can advise what paperwork is needed for their flights. Strongly suggest you contact a pet relocator here in Qatar as Government requirements can change on short notice. You need official information in order to have a smooth, hassle free trip.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 08 December 2014 - 11:03
Try contacting a local freight forwarding office about air cargo. Depending on the size of the shipment, it can be cost effective. There are also "luggage" forwarding services who provide similar services, they come to your home and pick up your stuff, weigh and measure it and then give you the final price. They will give you a quote if you can give them a good idea of the size/weight. I've shipped a bicycle and 2 other large boxes for less than $600 (that's a few years ago and weight wasn't a big issue, size of the bike box was). You will have to go to the cargo area to pick up your stuff and clear customs.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 08 December 2014 - 10:59
You can bring the cat either as excess baggage or cargo depending on the airline. You will need to have all vaccines up to date, a recent vet health certificate, microchipped, etc. You will also need an import permit. Sometimes company PROs will help with the import permit but most of us use a pet relocation service here in Qatar. Google, you'll find a few.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 07 December 2014 - 08:30
Perhaps an early breakfast at one of the Hotels out near the airport. Or if really nervous, booking a one night stay? Last year I was charged triple the regular limo fare at 5:00 am before street closures even started.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 December 2014 - 20:15
Sorry, but maybe it's being used as a dietary deterrent?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 December 2014 - 20:14
You have to understand how the GCC "works". Yes, if you say something the authorities approve of, you're going to be OK. But most new expats don't understand when they cross a line from OK to not allowed. Here's a link to the new Qatar Cyber Law which may help that understanding. http://www.amnesty.org/en/news/qatar-new-cybercrimes-law-endangers-freedom-expression-2014-09-18 Something as seemingly innocuous as ordering a nanny cam on line can get you deported (I know the couple personally). You are not allowed to photograph anyone without their permission. Various hand gestures given in frustration or aggravation can land you an interview and possible fines etc. with CID/Traffic department. Sharing information which SIDRA considers confidential on a public forum is extremely problematic. This is the GCC, different rules apply.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 December 2014 - 09:15
Sorry RRTNICU, but you are not always anonymous on the internet. The amount of detailed information being shared on this thread would make it fairly easy for SIDRA to identify some posters. And don't fool yourselves that SIDRA as well as other employers (and the authorities) don't monitor forums like this. I imagine the latter has more to do with people on the ground not posting rather than a clause in their contracts.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 December 2014 - 09:09
Your husband will probably enter on a family visa. He can't have a work visa until and unless he finds work which will provide sponsorship. Husbands cannot work legally while under a family visa (unlike wives). As for finding work, what does he do? The Supreme Education Council says that no child can enter school mid year though I understand that it might be a flexible ruling. I don't know anyone who has done so but I don't have many friends with children. Another rule is that children cannot attend school until they have their RP which at a minimum can take several weeks, if not longer. <em>edited by marycatherine on 06/12/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 13:26
I hope that wasn't the name of the actual service. Authorities regularly view forums like this and will block such services as they are not allowed.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 13:24
If you are not married then you will need to find a sponsored job in order to gain residency. BTW it is technically illegal to cohabit if unmarried and if caught, arrest and deportation can be the order of the day. Do people cohabit? Yes but they run the above risks.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 08:36
It looks like your car might not meet the age requirement either for imports. 5 year old cars are not allowed to be imported into Qatar. Your model year is 2011, and the 2016's are available next year. You need to make sure your car is eligible for import. Otherwise the A/C issue is moot.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 November 2014 - 14:49
There may be random instances where people will assume you are Chinese- Chinese rather than another nationality. The majority of people from Asia (including Chinese) work in lower level jobs and some might assume the same of you based solely on appearance. Of course, this will change if they interact with you. You certainly won't be maltreated overtly. Usually it's a matter of incorrect assumptions being made based on the overall demographic.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 November 2014 - 14:45
Hello Eleanor - you may want to edit your message to delete this lady's email. Once you quote her message, she can't change what appears in your post.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 19 November 2014 - 06:18
To be clear on exiting the country. All expats require an exit pass. You apply for one through your employer. Your employer decides to authorize it or decline it. Some employers are willing to authorize multiple exit passes (good for 1 calendar year) for their employees. Such employers are in the minority. It doesn't matter if your contract is silent on the issue. This is the legal exit procedure for all expats. Do I think any of you would have problems exiting? Probably not. But if it is a concern, better to ask before you arrive.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 15 November 2014 - 21:01
If you are not offered a multiple exit pass with your contract, it won't matter if it is stated in your contract that you cannot leave the country in the first 6 months. You WILL need an exit permit. The exit permit is applied for by you and approved by your employer. No approval, no exit.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 13 November 2014 - 08:20
There are 2 major providers in Qatar. OSN and Mozaic. The latter is a branch of Ooredoo, the local telecommunications provider. There is not a whole lot of difference between them except perhaps for some sports events. They both have websites with pricing and programming information. As for speed, well that can be hit or miss. Ooredoo is the only game in town for internet and while they advertise high speed broadband, it may not actually be the case 100% of the time even though you're paying for it. <em>edited by marycatherine on 13/11/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 November 2014 - 10:34
And don't forget you won't be able to sponsor a nanny until you have your RP. Another thing to keep in mind is you will need written permission from your husband to bring your children to Qatar and sponsor them. As I don't have children you would be well advised to get info from HR on what (if any) other written permissions you might need from him (permission to buy a car, get a driver's license, etc.). Some may not be required as you are employed and he is not in the country but it's best to be prepared.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 03 November 2014 - 07:32
good to know!
marycatherine
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Latest post on 03 November 2014 - 07:03
Dziner, you do know what you are doing is technically illegal, right? Yes people do what you are doing, but they don't usually try to attract the attention of the authorities in the way they promote their products/services. Holding your event in your villa is also done by others but be aware if a neighbour is ticked because a customer of yours is blocking his driveway or other small offense, you could find yourself reported. Do I think you would face a very serious penalty? Or even that someone might report you or the authorities might follow up on your facebook page. Probably not, but you should educate yourself on what the worst case scenario might be and guide yourself accordingly. I don't want to scare you but you may not be aware that it is illegal to run a business out of a residence in Qatar. People do it, just as unmarried couples co-habit but there are consequences
marycatherine
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Latest post on 02 November 2014 - 15:45
There is a 0 tolerance at the airport for anyone trying to smuggle booze into Qatar. All hand baggage is screened as is your luggage. I have been stopped several times for a secondary scan on my checked bags for what they considered anomalies, and they knew which bag of 2 or 3 they wanted to look at. Alcohol is not available upon arrival either. If transit passengers are delayed and must exit the security area, their legal booze is confiscated and they get a receipt to pick it up once they clear security for their onward flight. Pork is not allowed either but the screening is not so strenuous. Don't think you won't get caught, you will.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 October 2014 - 16:10
The article does not address the other part of this situation - why then, if they're doing their employees a service, are they requiring a deposit from the employee to get the passport back? Bull pucky
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 October 2014 - 15:02
It is irrelevant if the employment contract has a clause that "allows" them to hold employee passports. The contract cannot and does not trump the law of the land UNLESS the employer has requested and received permission from the relevant ministry to do so. If such a clause exists in the contract, ask to see the authorization from the ministry and go from there. I doubt if any hotel has this authorization. I would also request to see the Ministry authorization to require a deposit should I take control of my passport. I work in banking, I handle and am responsible for large $$ transactions, I hold my passport. As another poster said, the passport is the property of my government and it expressly states I am responsible for it. As a second suggestion, request that they provide you with a written copy of their policy/procedure (given it is not included in your contract) signed by the appropriate person in HR or your department. Bet they won't give you one.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 October 2014 - 20:47
If your carpets are valuable to you in any sense of the word, I would suggest you contact a reputable carpet dealer for advice on who/where to get your carpets cleaned. I use Sheba Carpets at the Blue Souk in Sharjah and I believe the carpet shop at the Taj Hotel in Dubai has a good rep too.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 October 2014 - 14:08
I'm with the party poopers on this one. No way a 15 year old should be going to a party given by someone you don't know, without known and trusted responsible adult supervision and with a boy you haven't met. It's a recipe for disaster.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 21:31
My source tells me that the holiday bazaar will not take place this year.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 17:17
While many do give private lessons, it is illegal to do so without proper documentation. Also be aware that the official stance right now is to reduce formal EFL positions especially at universities and colleges meaning many with substantial qualifications and experience are also looking for new opportunities.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 13:24
I saw something called "Fake Bake" (I think that was the name) at the smaller cosmetics shop in Hyatt Plaza (not Pari Gallery). I know the Marriott Ras Aboud offers spray tans as well. <em>edited by marycatherine on 18/10/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 07 October 2014 - 17:13
Is your sim card in your name or your employer's. Some employer's provide a phone (and sim card) to their employees. Therefore, it is not under your ID number.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 07 October 2014 - 16:32
This is illegal not only for her but for you are her sponsor. The fines are substantial. If you are not her sponsor and she is not coming to you from an agency, it is still illegal. You say she is married to a Qatari, it seems improbable but not impossible. How can you be sure? You might want to delete your post if either apply edited by marycatherine on 07/10/2014 <em>edited by marycatherine on 07/10/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 07 October 2014 - 16:28
I suspect it is more a matter of family members not being in a reporting relationship (one to another), which is quite commonly not allowed in most Western/European businesses (not private). It is to ensure that equity is maintained amongst employees. As for the OP's question if they are entitled to compensation - move on, get an NOC or whatever and find yourself a suitable job. The aggravation and stress and probable no win outcome aren't worth it.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 October 2014 - 08:56
I have purchased them at Spinney's in the past. Some of the supermarkets do carry them. If I recall correctly, they were in the same area as the cling film, etc.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 October 2014 - 08:54
Would IKEA have anything suitable? Some of the shops in the Central (Blue) Souq in Sharjah carry stuff like this. You usually have to rummage a bit though <em>edited by marycatherine on 06/10/2014</em>
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Latest post on 06 October 2014 - 08:53
My rental property is a business - it generates income for me so that I can pay [i'>my[/i'> financial obligations in full and on time. I guess I could ask the credit card company to wait a few months until I get that income. Same as your employer could ask you to wait until they're able to pay you your salary. Is it in my best interest to work with the tenant? Yes, for sure, no doubt. But unless I missed something, the tenant isn't making any effort to find a reasonable solution?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 October 2014 - 08:51
Not to mention the liability issues should there be (Heaven forbid) an accident or injury of any kind.
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Latest post on 30 September 2014 - 12:15
Get your husband to call the driver back and tell him in no uncertain terms not to contact you again or the police will be involved immediately. <em>edited by marycatherine on 30/09/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 30 September 2014 - 07:47
That looks like a wonderful spot jdcgl! jowori - you need to start making inquiries now (various vet offices either offer this service or have contacts with kennels/catteries). Space is often at a premium over the holidays and I know if it's a dog then many book a place at least 6 months in advance (with a hefty deposit to hold it).
marycatherine
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Latest post on 30 September 2014 - 07:33
"I know of various newly naturalized Canadian citizens who struggle to find gainful employment after months and months of searching. My brother in law's wife's cousin's husband couldn't find a job for 9 months" I know of several native born Canadians who have looked for work for months and months as well (one is still searching). Being a newly naturalized Canadian is not unique in that respect. They too have little government aid etc. as they are considered to be able bodied and "capable" of finding employment. Does discrimination exist? Yes indeedy, but it is not always the same for everyone no matter where they were born. I applaud the decision made by the government. I work with probably a dozen "Canadianese" who spent the minimum amount of time in Canada and have no intention of ever returning. I also know of people who are living full time in a 3rd country and collecting Canadian child credits and other Canadian benefits you are entitled to as a resident. I hope all of those who have abused the system get caught and their citizenship revoked. <em>edited by marycatherine on 30/09/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 26 September 2014 - 08:58
I believe your daughter is 9 years old? Would you be working shifts? If so, this could be a real issue for you. To my knowledge (and I stand to be corrected) you will not be able to sponsor live in help for at least 6 months after you get your RP. I would be pushing SIDRA about specifics NOW rather than later when you're on the ground and getting a perhaps unpleasant surprise. If you aren't working shifts, then your daughter will be in school for a good part of the day and you would need care until you get home. After school activities, dance/music lessons could take up part of the time and maybe you could make arrangements with another family nearby that she would have a safe place until you get home. Push HR about the specifics of "don't worry about childcare" it's important you know your child will be properly looked after.
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Latest post on 25 September 2014 - 11:25
Agree with Lotti, and those few EA/PA jobs that are attractive in terms of wages and benefits (most are local hires on a husband's sponsorship)are filled by very experienced people with years of relevant experience.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 September 2014 - 13:08
Does he get an allowance or does Sidra provide accommodation? For most new employees it is the latter. If the former, where you will be able to afford rent will be a better question as the Pearl & West Bay are the two more expensive parts of Doha
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 September 2014 - 13:07
Here's a quote from the ACS website that might clarify the RP requirement further: "In compliance with the Supreme Education Council, [b'>all enrolled students and parents are required to have their Qatar National Identification number / Resident Permit Number on file prior to the child’s first day of school.[/b'> The following documents must therefore be provided before the child can be admitted: A copy of the child’s Qatari Visa (residency permit) in their passport A copy of both parent’s/guardian’s Qatari visas and Qatar ID cards" so it looks like you can apply while the RP is being processed but it must be in hand on registration day. <em>edited by marycatherine on 21/09/2014</em>
 
 
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