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rawla

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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 May 2015 - 13:21
OMG littleone, that's a really good one! I love it :) Wish we had security guards like yours to remind DH!
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Latest post on 14 May 2015 - 13:17
I've had several micro surgeries with Dr Janeta Atanasova at Infinity Clinic and been very happy with the results. They are moving from their current location opposite Park 'n' Shop to The Village Mall this month so I'm not sure if they are accepting new patients at the moment, but you can call and ask. All the best to you :)
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Latest post on 13 May 2015 - 08:13
Definitely recommend the Alcatraz tour! Book very early because it gets sold out a month in advance sometimes. There's only one company that does it.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 May 2015 - 07:52
Finally managed to get the answers you need :) For certifying the copies, she found a statement online along the lines of "I, so and so, hereby certify that this is a true copy of the orginal document..." and asked the person who certified the docs to write that on the back of each copy and sign it. This was the same person who did the identity declaration - a friend who is an Australian citizen and also fits into one of the professions mentioned on the application. She said there was a list of around 40 or so professions to choose from on the form. HTH
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Latest post on 13 May 2015 - 07:44
Admin has posted a "sticky" to say that it has been changed to make it more "mobile" friendly so you can view it better on smartphones, etc. I agree, it takes some getting used to!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 May 2015 - 17:39
My friend did this recently for her child and I went with her so I can tell you a bit about the process. Her experience was the complete opposite to yours, mrsb. Sorry to hear your having a hard time. Basically, my friend got the application and info online, filled in the form, collected all the required docs and then made an appointment at the VFS in Wafi mall. There they checked all her docs, she paid the fees and was told she would receive a reply in 2 weeks, which she did. The only thing I remember which wasn't mentioned on the site is that she was asked to submit the original birth certificates, which were returned to her with the citizenship docs. They also needed copies of both parents' passports and visa pages (even though her DH isn't Australian). HTH Good luck!
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Latest post on 11 May 2015 - 08:45
Amir is not unique in his approach because every mum knows that sometimes what's needed is a bit of tough love. But the way it's delivered can make all the difference! Therein lies the problem with Amir's approach, it seems. There are many ways to deliver a tough message but still do so respectfully. I don't think the comments he made to the lady who applied came across as respectful. As this thread shows, they had quite the opposite effect despite his (presumably) best intentions. Amir was also given the opportunity to comment by the National but said he was 'unavailable'. That in itself speaks volumes.
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Latest post on 10 May 2015 - 20:49
Beebers, whilst I agree that a business can 'choose' it's clients, in an industry where a trainer is judged by how well he/she transforms bodies, by applying your logic, you are artificially inflating the trainer's success rates. If you only select 'winning horses', you will win every time. The real challenge and sign of a good trainer is someone who can transform exactly the people with all the excuses you mention. Otherwise, if this gym only selects people they can work with, based on some psychological tests, then I would take their 'success stories' and 'testimonials' with a pinch of salt!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 May 2015 - 08:02
I would second the petrol being a bit too low, especially if you end up living in AR. I would double that amount, but will depend on the cars you buy. Japanese cars with a small engine are very petrol efficient, while most 4x4s and bigger engine cars aren't. I would also factor in Salik, as that can really add up if you're doing school runs, your DH traveling to work, etc. You can use some of the cleaning budget towards this, because Dhs 3,500 is quite high unless you have a cleaner coming every day. Most places charge Dhs 40-45 per hour for 4 hours min, Clothes are also quite expensive in Dubai. Dis 500 won't go very far these days, unfortunately. One way around it is to shop online and use Shop & Ship to have things delivered. Other initial expenses (one offs) when you move here are deposits for DEWA (now Dhs 4,000), du (Dhs 1,000 I think!), bank fees (annual credit card fees, minimum bank balances, etc) depending on who you bank with, etc. Finally, house maintenance... In theory, your Landlord shoul pay this, however, in practice, often they do not so I would budget that as an unexpected expense that will crop up. You can always try an re-coup the costs from the LL, if they don't pay initially. Good luck with your move. Your preparations and planning will hold you in good stead :)
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Latest post on 06 May 2015 - 13:32
Thanks, sarahlou123 :) Looks like I'll have to foot it to the BoE next time I'm in London! Could be a while, but at least there's no deadline. I don't fancy sending the money by post!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 May 2015 - 12:50
I have some old £50 notes that need to be exchanged for the new ones. I believe the deadline for this has passed in the UK to do it via banks. Does anyone know if there is a final deadline to do this and where can it be done? TIA
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Latest post on 05 May 2015 - 11:26
Gritt1, I'm a bit old fashioned when it comes to certain things so I avoided any form of strenuous exercise and movements until I got through my first trimester. I still did some 'gentle' exercises like walking (strolling ;)) and swimming. After 12 weeks , I took it up a notch or two! BTW, congrats if you are pregnant. You can always cut back now and then go back to a regular exercise routine once it's confirmed.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 May 2015 - 20:49
Highly recommend Emirates Home Nursing. Have used them on many occasions. Steer clear of Nanniesdubai!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 May 2015 - 19:39
Woodward seems to have disappeared off the shelves, unfortunately! Life pharmacy now stock a gripe water brand called Acure, which has different ingredients and doesn't seem to be as effective :(
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 April 2015 - 14:37
Have a look at the City Select Jogger. It had 16 different seating combinations and with adaptors you can also attach the baby's car seat. It's expensive, but had a good resale value.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 April 2015 - 09:54
For a large group and the time period you're thinking of, you'd probably be best off with self-catered hotel apartments. There are loads in Barsha, right next to Mall of the Emirates. From there, you can easily get to all sorts of places because the metro is at your doorstep. Book as early as possible to get the best deals and enjoy. Dubai is amazing at Christmas :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 April 2015 - 13:03
Dubai Health Authority has a process for making complaints. It's outlined on their website. I would also recommend trying to resolve it with the hospital first, and then taking it to DHA if that doesn't work out.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 April 2015 - 12:55
Chezmoi, what you say makes perfect sense and I doubt anyone would disagree. However, deleted posts are not necessarily defamatory. So we can't post honest reviews of advertiser's services, for example. EW used to be a community, but now it is a business. edited by rawla on 28/04/2015
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 April 2015 - 10:48
Thank you so much, ladies! :)
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Latest post on 27 April 2015 - 10:32
Thanks, dubaieye1 :) With two LOs running around and an upcoming delivery, she was hoping for a 'quick' solution. We'll try googling to see if there are any templates we can use.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 April 2015 - 08:10
My sister is expecting her third baby and needs to hire a full time nanny who would only look after the kids (no cleaning, etc.). She has found a lovely lady who will join the family next month. However, we haven't been able to find a contract for nannies specifically, outlining all of the duties, etc. Does anyone know if there is a standard contract available that she can download, edit and use? TIA!
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Latest post on 24 April 2015 - 06:25
Dbbabies sell them online but I think they have a stall shop in Mercato Mall on the ground floor, close to the main entrance. They may stock them there. Otherwise, pharmacy wise, your best bet is Life on Al Wasl Road or Dubai Mall.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 April 2015 - 22:14
If you don't reside in Australia, you pay 40%+ tax on any earnings in Australia (e.g. rent, dividends, royalties, etc.). You don't pay any tax on what you earn in the country you are living in (e.g. salary). Otherwise, if you reside and work in Australia, you pay a progressive tax rate on everything you earn and there is a tax free threshold.
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Latest post on 19 April 2015 - 08:17
Hi Cherpie, I haven't been to the Karama medical centre but from going to the post office, I know that it's crazy busy and it's usually hard to find parking. If you can, take a cab. Since you'll have your LO with you, try to ask if you can be given priority. There are usually long waits at these places. The blood tests they typically do are for Hepatitis and HIV. You will also do a chest X Ray, most likely, for TB. These are the standard screenings for immigration. If your previous visa was for 3 years, the new one would be too. Good luck, hope it all goes smoothly!
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Latest post on 09 April 2015 - 20:25
How awful, Cowboy. That's really disappointing. I've never been to a Mother & Baby coffee morning, but your experience has put me off, to be honest. I'm sure your LO is a beauty :) My DD was also born with lots of lanugo. I was also on the receiving end of an interesting comment after giving birth to DD. I had put on A LOT of weight during my pregnancy. One of the nurses at the hospital said to DD while holding her: "I hope your mummy doesn't make you fat like she is!". I nearly choked on my drink when I heard her say that! I was too stressed to make a big deal out of it, but I was really upset for so many reasons. I know that it's acceptable in some cultures to make comments like that, but honestly, there needs to be some sensitivity and consideration for the other person.
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Latest post on 31 March 2015 - 18:23
Have you tried Dr Michael Klein at Health Bay? He is Dr Ursula's husband, I believe.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 March 2015 - 18:19
Edinburghexpat, if the landlord, agent and Emaar are not willing to sort this out and the Rent Committee process takes too long, I would follow keeperofthetreasure's advice and speak with the police. They are very helpful and often just one phone call/visit from the police to the landlord or agent is enough to sort things out. You are the innocent party here and the landlord/agent have to be held accountable for misleading you. Emaar, unfortunately, have a hardline policy on this and refuse to budge. There really should be a requirement for landlords to provide some sort of clearance certificate to tenants before they're allowed to lease a property.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 March 2015 - 11:13
Just came across this info too from gov.uk (see sponsoring family members link): [url=https://www.gov.uk/living-in-the-united-arab-emirates#sponsoring-family-members'>link[/url'>
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 March 2015 - 11:09
Here's a link to an article published in the local newspaper Gulf News about the procedure for sponsoring stepchildren: [url=http://gulfnews.com/guides/family/getting-visa-for-a-stepchild-1.440558'>link[/url'> It was published some time ago and things may have changed slightly since then, but it echoes what the ladies have been saying above. Also good advice to have your partner speak to his company's PRO (public relations officer) who deals with the immigration authorities on behalf of the company's employees, and often assists with their family visas too.
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Latest post on 31 March 2015 - 09:55
Anxiousmummy86, with regards to your own visa, you have two options: 1. Marry your partner before you move to Dubai and he can then sponsor you as his wife. Without being married, this isn't possible. As his wife, you will get a 3 year (renewable) residence visa. If you choose this route, don't forget to attest your marriage docs in the UK before you move to Dubai. 2. Find a full time job in Dubai and have your employer sponsor you. You will also get a 3 year residence visa. This is the harder option, plus if you go down this route and decide to live with your partner unmarried, you are taking a risk because de-facto marriages are not legal in the UAE. That's not to say that people don't do it, but just be aware of the risk and the consequences of 'getting caught'. Once you have your visa sorted, you can organise your kids' visas. Both fathers must give their consent and, again, make sure all the docs related to this are attested, etc. After you have the consent, you will be able to sponsor them and organise their residence visas. If you and your partner get married, he MAY be able to sponsor them, but don't quote me on that. I'm guessing that may be possible. Otherwise, you would be their sponsor. Getting a residence visa is a very straightforward process, provided you have all of the required documents with attestations. Good luck!
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Latest post on 22 March 2015 - 17:26
Shaun does a great job! He cleans the oven himself and is very thorough so he takes 3-4 hours typically. He also uses non-hazardous cleaning products. I paid Dhs 400 (I think!) for the oven and the hob was an extra Dhs 150. It was definitely worth it!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 March 2015 - 15:46
Cara at the Gold & Diamond Park buys gold based on weight. They will offer you only the gold value so you will lose out on any extra that you paid for the design, zircons, etc. if this is part of the piece you are selling. You don't need a receipt or any other paperwork as they will determine the weight and carats. The price of the gold will be whatever the retail price per gram is on the day you sell. You may get a better deal if you 'trade in' the gold item for something else, rather than selling it for cash.
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Latest post on 12 March 2015 - 20:46
Not sure about kitchen cabinets, but Tip Top painters re-painted all the doors and frames in our house with a special (latex?) paint. They did a great job but the house did smell of paint for a week! They can come and take a look and let you know if it's doable. I'm not sure it can be done on the 'shiny' kitchen cabinet doors though, if that's what you have, Cowboy. I would imagine they would need spray painting because of the glossy surface.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 March 2015 - 11:22
I looked in so many places when I wanted to replace mine, but I either didn't like what I saw or it came in sets that didn't work for me (4, 8, 12, etc.) with extras I didn't need! I finally came across a great selection at Homes R Us in Ibn Battuta. They had some fab designs (plain colours with elegant engraved, rather than embossed patterns) you could buy by the piece so I got only what I needed, and the prices were very reasonable. They actually have a really good selection of kitchen items across the board. If you're looking for something a bit more 'fancy' (formal), check out a shop called San Marco on Sh Zayed Road. It's in the same complex as Just Kidding, Indigo Living, etc. after Safa Park. They have a huge selection which is more 'local' in style, but they do have everyday sets too. I got some fantastic Arabic style tea cups and serving platters there. Wait for a sale though, the prices are much lower!
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Latest post on 11 March 2015 - 14:53
There is a great one for men at the Royal Mirage spa.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 March 2015 - 21:31
Iraqi_holand, are you planning to teach at a school in Dubai? If yes, maybe you can check with KHDA about the attestation. Not all universities in the UAE have/require MOHESR accreditation. Dubai-based BRANCH campuses of foreign universities (i.e. those issuing a degree from a home campus in the UK, Australia, etc.) are regulated by KHDA, while universities established in the UAE (i.e. those issuing their own, 'local' degrees like AUD, AUS, etc.) are regulated by MOHESR. See KHDA website here: [url=http://www.khda.gov.ae/Pages/En/commonQuestionshe.aspx'>link[/url'> for more info about how this works and check with them about recognised qualifications for teaching in DUBAI schools.
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Latest post on 07 March 2015 - 21:21
My first order from The White Co arrived a few days ago from the UK and I saved a couple of thousand Dhs by ordering online! The prices in the UK are cheaper anyway, but if you Google a White Co promo code, you can get an additional 20% off plus free delivery in the UK. I used Shop and Ship to have it delivered to Dubai and even with the courier charges and customs fees, it was at least 25% cheaper than buying in a shop here. The £ exchange rate at the moment also helped. Their classic bedding collections like the Savoy, are never on sale here so it's definitely worth getting them online if you're buying a few pieces.
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Latest post on 04 March 2015 - 12:00
I have also bought stuff from Mumzworld without any issues. They delivered the next day.
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Latest post on 03 March 2015 - 21:42
Thanks for all the suggestions, ladies! Very helpful. We've also been told about "Foul w Hummus" in Barsha. Maybe we'll try all of them ;)
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Latest post on 03 March 2015 - 21:37
Smartee, if you suspect that it's diabetes related, then the specialist you need to see is an endocrinologist. They can then refer you to other specialists as required. All the best to your father and please do get it checked out. From personal experience, early detection with diabetes related symptoms is very important.
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Latest post on 03 March 2015 - 21:33
Hi Schnuppi, I would definitely register with Ejari for a couple of reasons: protection for you as a tenant (in case of disputes, you need an Ejari certificate to register a case with the Rent Committee) and also for other purposes (renewing residence visas, setting up Du/Etisalat, etc.). It's a 5 minute process at the Municipality on Sh Zayed Road (opposite Times Square shopping centre), which is where I did it. But apparently it can be done online too: [url=http://www.ejari.ae/tenantcertificate/tc_certificate_registration.aspx'>link[/url'> - scroll down to "Full e-Service Process". The documents you need are mentioned.
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Latest post on 27 February 2015 - 09:04
Yes, they do. I have used them too and found them to be very good! But the minimum booking is for 6 hours and they charge Dhs 50 per hour.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 February 2015 - 11:26
Another vote for Celmetro. They just replaced the digitiser (screen) on our iPad. It cost Dhs 295 which included pick up and delivery (usually 24 hour turnaround or less), as well as a 2 year warranty. Like simpleasabc said, not necessarily cheap, but I was happy to pay for the convenience and the warranty :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 February 2015 - 08:01
Try Threads & Stitches. They have a branch close to MOE and one in the Springs. Map, contact info and opening hours here: http://threadstitches.com/contact-small-map/
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 February 2015 - 18:44
Cherpie, sorry that you're going through a very tough and stressful time. I have friends (non-Muslims) who have divorced in the UAE. There are a lot of misconceptions and rumours about what happens, who gets what, etc. I suggest you go down to the Dubai Court (the Family Matters Section, as you mentioned) and ask to speak to a counselor/judge who will be able to advise you on the procedure. In my friends' cases, it was fairly straightforward, but both parties needed to be present and agree to the divorce (i.e. you can't do it yourself - of if you do, it gets more complicated). Don't think of worst case scenarios just yet. You will get independent advice, free of charge, about the process from the Court officials. Since the divorce decree is issued by the Court, I don't see why it wouldn't be valid in your home country, or anywhere else in the world! You will simply have to get it translated into English and authenticated. All the best and don't fear, just take yourself down to the Dubai Court next to Maktoum Bridge and ask. BTW, parking is a nightmare so either go early in the morning (7am) or take a cab.
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Latest post on 22 February 2015 - 12:48
JWFI charges a Dhs 100 call out fee, and Dhs 200 per hour (possibly for the first hour only and then Dhs 100 per hour, not sure!). They do bill in half hour intervals though, so last time they did a 20 min job for me they charged me Dhs 200 (Dhs 100 call out + Dhs 100 for 30 min). They are still by far the most professional company and have trained, polite staff. The boys who did the job for me said I still had 10 minutes and did I need anything else done, which I thought was very kind of them. As far as I'm aware, they don't charge 'per job' unless it's something specific like A/C cleaning, which is per unit. They are also transparent and upfront about the fees when booking, which I like. A shelf would normally take 10-15 min to put up, if it needs drilling, so 6 shelves would take about 1.5 hrs. I would expect to pay something like Dhs 400 for this job with JWFI based on their fees. I agree that's still quite a bit when compared to the cost of the shelves so perhaps in your case a solo handyman, rather than a company, would be better suited for the job. There have been a few recommended on this forum.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 February 2015 - 21:24
Reemonita, so sorry to hear about your poor bub. It must be so difficult for you and him. I can empathise with you because my DS also had reflux when he was the same age and the only thing that helped was the Nexium. Without it, he would scream, cry and arch his back all the time when he was in a lying position. Poor thing was in so much pain, so I really feel sorry for your son. My doctor told me to mix the 10mg sachet of Nexium with 15 ml of water and then give him only 9 ml (discard the remaining 6 ml). I used a syringe to measure and dispense the Nexium twice per day. It did help in my case and there was no eczema. By the way, my son was breastfed for five months before I started him on formula and he had the reflux episode while breastfeeding, so it just goes to show that judgmental comments like MoonFlower's are way off the mark, so please ignore them. When I introduced formula, I went with Similac. I'm not sure if the above will be of much help to you, but I just wanted to say good luck and I hope this phase passes soon. I felt so helpless until we were able to find a solution, and I hope you will be able to find one soon too.
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Latest post on 17 February 2015 - 21:46
I am not a patient of Dr Elsa's but I have seen her new clinic being set up in Bldg 72 in Healthcare City on the second floor. There is a notice next to the door which has her name on it (one of those "approvals to do construction work" notices). Last time I walked past it, the place was still unfurnished but there was work under way, so that probably means it's opening soon. I don't think they have contact info yet so if you really want to find out more specific info, I think the only way is to go there physically and speak to someone.
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Latest post on 10 February 2015 - 22:46
Try Lifestyle. They have the scented drawer sachets, and may have liners too. The ones in MOE and Oasis Centre have a bigger range.
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Latest post on 09 February 2015 - 14:17
Someone once got me a mini "souvenir" sized barrel of oil from Saudi as a gift. It was made of acrylic glass and you could see the crude oil inside. I think it also had something to that effect stamped on it, along with "Greetings from Saudi Arabia" or something! They also make them in key chain size. I thought it was an appropriate gift from Saudi :biggrin: