sarahlou123 | ExpatWoman.com
 

sarahlou123

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EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 May 2017 - 15:17
Hi, Can anybody give me a rough idea of how much car insurance is in Dubai ? I am looking to buy a second hand large 4 x 4. How long is a piece of string It all depends upon the following Fully comp 3rd party No claims How long you have had a UAE licence age and cost of car
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 May 2017 - 15:16
Hi can anyone give me a band of a reliable AC cleaning company that will totally overhaul the AC in my apartment Thanks any help much appreciated Coolwell
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 May 2017 - 15:10
Does anyone know if baskin robbins deliver their celebration cakes? Or can anyone recommend any other ice cream celebration cakes?? Thanks I think you can order online but have to collect in store. We used to order ours at Coldstone Creamery and they were always nice
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 May 2017 - 15:02
My ex wardrobe Facebook Dubai nearly new/new ladies clothing site If you sell them at the Flea market prepare to be haggled with. People want a bargain there and don't want to pay even AED50 for a decent top or dress!
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 11 May 2017 - 11:52
Thanks ladies! I have called quite a few places and they charge extortionate prices - its double the prices of back home!! If anyone finds a good doctor at reasonable prices please do let me know... You wont find cheap filler here. If you do then i wouldn't use it! They nearly all charge similar prices, which is down to the distributor, sadly you will never get it at the cost you would at home. Cost price from the manufacturer for Restylane in the UK is AED600 however average cost here is AED2500-3000 most procedures here are double of that of the UK I would get it done when you are home, much cheaper :-)
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 11 May 2017 - 10:36
Morning Ladies Does anyone know where in Dubai I can buy large adult inflatables for the pool? Looking for ones like pineapples, pizza slices etc etc TIA http://www.sanddollardubai.com/accessories/giant-pool-inflatables.html https://uae.souq.com/ae-en/inflatable-pool/s/ River island in the UK do them too
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 May 2017 - 10:44
Ladies, Best places for fillers? And what are prices per syringe? Also best place for laser treatment for age spots? Thanks Dr. Jaafar khan is excellent....3000 for each filler Syringe! So if you need 2 expect around 6000 ..if it's your first time there you also need to pay extra for consultation I went there for both botox an filler he is amazing .... but i'm looking for other recommendations because i can't afford him any more... Hi Lara I am a huge advocate of Jaffar and used to use him back in the old days Luckily my friend in the UK is trained in fillers and she now does mine once a year so i only pay cost! In the last two years i used DR Allen Rezai at Elite in Healthcare City, his were only 2000-2500 for a syringe of Restylene and they always have offers and as i use him for my botox he gave me discounts of 5% It may be worth calling him. He is so patient and kind too
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 04 May 2017 - 11:12
Phuket, unspoilt, ridiculously cheap and lovely people
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 04 May 2017 - 10:05
Hi.. i need an advise pls I went for under eye filler few weeks ago .. and yesterday i had a follow up appointment... me and the dr both agreed that i need a little bit more filler under the eye... it was really good before adding but as the dr said can be improved! After I finished the receptionist told me i can leave because there is no charge for follow up ... In my way back the nurse called saying that i need to pay 2,000 something (after discount) because he opened 2 new syringes... I told her I should've know that before he started ... especially that the touch up wasn't a must !...the first time i paid 5300... its a well known clinic and it was my first time filler and didn't want to risk my self and choose a cheap thing... but i really don't know what to do.. they r calling me I thought i should take another opinion before i answer... i feel it was my right to know because if I knew that i need to pay again i wouldn't have asked for it I thought it was free ...if i have to pay of course i will i'm not going to do something and not pay for it if i have to ... otherwise i will feel guilty for the rest of my life.. Pls advise! Lara that price is so overpriced. Even a full face of Juvyderm/Restylene etc for one syringe shouldn't cost more than AED2500, the cost price in the UK/US is AED450 ( That is another story though) The under eye area shouldn't cost AED5300!!!! and if they are adding more than 2 syringes then they are not doing the area correctly. Don't name and shame as the other lady asked as you could get into trouble for defamation. Top ups for Botox are free, filler wont be BUT the receptionist/nurse should of made you aware of the charges and it is their error. If they persist then I would speak to the Dubai Health Authority
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 01 May 2017 - 14:36
Thanks for your help. Worry because nursing is such a specialised field may be more difficult to leave into a completely different role. What is average salary in UAE does anyone know? And during Ramadan I assume restaurants etc are all closed through day? Not all are closed, many now can apply for a licence and also serve alcohol ( They tend to be British bars) I have no idea regarding salary sorry
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 01 May 2017 - 12:43
JBR walk the market had them last week
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 01 May 2017 - 12:42
https://www.gov.uk/tax-uk-income-live-abroad/overview Ring HRMC they will give you all the info you need. I moved in a July and managed to claim the previous years tax back whilst here Regarding the NOC this is only something you will need if you are on your Husbands visa and it is basically a letter from him saying he is happy for you to work. Attest every document you have ( Education certificates, marriage certificates, birth certificates for the kids) before you leave. These need to be done by a solicitor in the UK, foreign and commonwealth office in Milton Keynes and the UAE embassy in London
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 01 May 2017 - 12:38
Hi there! I'm a nurse from the UK recently relocated to Dubai due to partners work. Been here around 7 weeks and no real luck on job front yet! Nursing doesn't seem to pay very well, and any that do hours are 52+. Not sure if its a good idea to look outwith my profession to different options? Also wondering how it is here during Ramadan? are places still open etc? Thanks for your time! Most private workers here myself included work 45 hours plus a week Historically Ramadan is very quiet and the job front is slow, also bear in mind that everything slows down as we head into the Summer and the kids holidays. Have you looked on the job boards of some of the outstanding schools as their hours will be shorter and maybe their salaries will be better than the ones you have seen
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 April 2017 - 13:37
Thank you ladies. I ended up going back to Salon Ink where I hadn't been for several years. Saw Natalie. Lovely lady, very talented and she gave me a whole new style. Have a great weekend :) Fab place I used to go there back when they first opened :-)
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 April 2017 - 12:00
Since I got here in Dubai, I noticed that my skin becomes more dry, and got a lot of blemishes on my face and some parts of my body. I have been applying just a regular moisturizing cream and I think it's not getting any better. I was thinking to check with a specialist. Any dermatologist that you can recommend? Thanks! Go to Dermalogica and get your face mapped, the climate and water are harsh here so you will need to change your usual cleaning routine
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 April 2017 - 11:59
Hi there! Will anyone recommend the best way and can save money at the same time in preventing hair fall and skin problem in Dubai? I have just been worried suddenly after months I been here. Drink lots of water and buy a filter for the shower Thanks, Sarah. Are you using shower filter also? Is it possible to know the product? Since I don't want to try one and jump to another one. I check online and have too much kind of filter. If you can give me an idea then it will be very big help. Blu all the pharmacies sell them
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 April 2017 - 11:39
Hi there! Will anyone recommend the best way and can save money at the same time in preventing hair fall and skin problem in Dubai? I have just been worried suddenly after months I been here. Drink lots of water and buy a filter for the shower
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 April 2017 - 11:37
Hi all, I have just moved to Abu Dhabi from the UK and whilst I am still finding my feet on the grocery front in general, I am really struggling to find organic FRESH foods! I have looked online and found the few online companies that do box deliveries(Ripe etc) which is great, but one of the REALLY important products for me is organic meat, as this is the food that has the most hormones/antibiotics etc pumped into it! So far I have managed to find one pack of semi-organic chicken breast in one shop...does anyone know of anywhere I can get organic meat? Or is this something I will need to accept :/ Oh, and a second question, totally off the topic, but any advice on where I can get blonde highlights done would also be much appreciated!! :biggrin: Thank you! Spinneys, Carrefour and Waitrose do organic meat, the organic shop in Dubai does too Cannot help with your hair question with as my hairdresser is in Dubai
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 April 2017 - 11:34
Good Morning Everyone, I was prescribed hempseed oil as a supplement by local naturopath, who suggested to purchase it from iHerb. I wonder, is this oil available in any Dubai shop? I checked this oil in organic foods and cafe- their nutritionist told me that it was illegal(?) in Dubai, though, hempseed oil is available on desertcart. Quite confusing...Have you ever purchased it or ordered online here in UAE? And if yes- from which shop or online store? Is it actually OK to purchase it from online store? Many thanks Hi, I would love to know the answer as well if it's legal. Would always be nice to follow the rules. I hope someone from here can give us clarifications. Will be waiting for updates... Hemp seeds are on the gov banned list. is the oil made from seeds? If so then yes it is banned
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 April 2017 - 08:31
Hi, I am fed up of fad diets and have started Slimming World, fingers crossed it works for me. I was surprised to find no official support groups here in Abu Dhabi! I have started a facebook group Slimming World Abu Dhabi hoping to find others following slimming world here and who can share their advice and wisdom. If anyone knows of any other groups here that I could join or where to get advice on great places to shop/eat out etc?? Thanks :biggrin: Most people do it online. I have had results in the past but am now doing Joe Wicks bodycoach and can honestly say it is so much better. In the first 30 days I have lost 6kg and ten inches overall. Good luck with Slimming world
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 April 2017 - 08:30
Good Morning Everyone, I was prescribed hempseed oil as a supplement by local naturopath, who suggested to purchase it from iHerb. I wonder, is this oil available in any Dubai shop? I checked this oil in organic foods and cafe- their nutritionist told me that it was illegal(?) in Dubai, though, hempseed oil is available on desertcart. Quite confusing...Have you ever purchased it or ordered online here in UAE? And if yes- from which shop or online store? Is it actually OK to purchase it from online store? Many thanks If the shops aren't allowed to sell it then personally speaking I would not order it online
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 April 2017 - 08:29
Debenhams in the home section
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 25 April 2017 - 16:22
Jim will fix it Must have maintenance M plus
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 25 April 2017 - 16:20
I wouldn't bother either, most shared rooms in a decent apartment block cost AED5000 per month upwards and that is 50% of your salary slashed before you even start. Cost of living here is high and whilst I know that some people live on less it will not provide you with a good standard of living Many schools also have limited contracts which means you cannot change roles for 2 years or you may get a ban and have to pay back costs Any company that does not pay for your relocation/Visa costs//medical should be avoided Hiya Sarah Sounds like good advice. From the research that I have already done, I can see that the cost of housing is ridiculous. My work place is in the Al Sufuoh 2 area. The only "reasonably priced" housing which I've seen which would cost me around a third of my salary is in International City. I've heard mixed reviews of this place and I am not completely against it (although I did read something a few days ago about a murder that occurred there at some point in recent years!). The issue which I have had is that when I look at how to get there by public transport, it will take about three hours as there is no direct transport there. I could be wrong in my research but it was saying something like having to catch a bus from the Dragon Mart outside the English Cluster and then going to Deira and then catching another bus from there to go to where I need to be. I am not going to drive in Dubai. I don't think I could afford to anyway. The other option I was thinking of was doing a car share but when I looked online there was nothing from International City (even if I did decide to live there) to the area where my school is. Anything closer to the school, and I am looking at 50-60,000 AED, but then I also have to pay additional public transport costs no matter where I live. I have no idea what that might amount to but of course it's going to add up. Then on top of that basic essentials such as bills (internet, water, electricity- DEWA??) and food are equally ridiculous. To add to that, I think there's some sort of tax which you have to pay to the Government on any place which you rent (about 15 or 20%, I've heard???). If I do rent somewhere, it seems that it is very likely that I will have to do it through a lettings company as most apartments seem to be through them and if I'm not mistaken, that's another 15% or 20% of your rent??? :( I live on my own in a semi decent area I will give you the breakdown of costs so you have an idea Rent 7000 per month DEWA 500 per month Wifi and TV 350 per month Petrol/Salik 320 per month Food 1200 per month That almost totals 9370 per month and I haven't factored in my hair/mani/pedi, going out ( I don't go out a lot) holidays, savings, emergency items and I earn a decent salary The only thing that would be different for you is rent may be lower however even if you know it down to say 4/5,000 to share you still would be up to 7370 a month and that is before you have a night out which could cost anything from 500-1500 a night if you go to brunch, yes public transport is cheap but from out of Dubai where places are cheaper it could take forever to commute and avoid International City, it isn't dangerous however not an area I feel you would like. As the other ladies stated it isn't worth it at all and what could happen is that you take advantage of all the credit they may throw at you and then you get in debt ( it happens a lot here) start up costs are huge here it just isn't the job for you, please believe us on this
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 25 April 2017 - 16:10
......Ladies Can anyone recommend a great hairdresser that is good with styling and colouring long hair? Been to my hairdresser for many years and am now looking for a change. TIA I have very long blond hair and go to Slam
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 25 April 2017 - 16:03
Old post but may help http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic225234-hemp-and-lin--where-to-find-forum23.aspx
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 20 April 2017 - 09:25
I wouldn't bother either, most shared rooms in a decent apartment block cost AED5000 per month upwards and that is 50% of your salary slashed before you even start. Cost of living here is high and whilst I know that some people live on less it will not provide you with a good standard of living Many schools also have limited contracts which means you cannot change roles for 2 years or you may get a ban and have to pay back costs Any company that does not pay for your relocation/Visa costs//medical should be avoided
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 16 April 2017 - 09:56
Hi All, Does anyone know how important the birth certificate of the sponsor is to the process of being accepted for a residence visa in Dubai. Its complicated but I am a British citizen but do not have a birth certificate and cannot obtain one- my new employer in Dubai has said its needed sometimes and that my application may be rejected on the basis of this...,MOHRE have said they do not require a birth certificate. What am I to think? Thank you Aaliyah I have never been asked for my birth certificate and have been here for 10 years. When you say sponsor do you mean the company? I don't know why you cannot request a copy of your birth certificate from the county registry office. Everyone can apply for a duplicate copy
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 12 April 2017 - 15:13
Anyone have a good experience with fillers generally? I used to go to Jaffar Khan and Allen Rezai, they both use restylane which I feel is the best Thankfully my BF is trained in them and now does them for me when I am at home for a fraction of the cost
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 06 April 2017 - 16:04
Hi there, Can anyone recommend websites to order quality bedding? I have just missed the sale on the White Company and as far as I know they don't have any outlets in the UAE anymore. White company UK and shop and ship it. Even with the shipping it would be cheaper than the UAE prices. There is a john lewis at Festival City and the UK site delivers to the UAE cheaply Next.ae also has some decent thread count bedding order over AED120 and shipping is free and takes four days
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 04 April 2017 - 12:15
hi ladies, anyone have an idea from where I can get an Easter bunny dress for my 2 years old daughter in affordable price? http://www.mypartycentre.com/Easter-Bunny-Costume-Ideas-in-Dubai
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 04 April 2017 - 12:14
I have always bought mine from Home Centre not expensive and have been fine
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 04 April 2017 - 12:12
I would also make sure they check the car hasn't been involved in any accidents and that they don't just check the usual stuff tyres/lights/brakes. I have heard of people buying cars here and after the sale finding the air con has packed in and the car has been involved in a heavy smash. I would pay for it to go to an independent leading garage and have it thoroughly checked over from top to bottom
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 04 April 2017 - 12:09
Hello, I want to buy a second-hand car. But my budget is only from 8k to 12k. Can I get a nice used car in this budget? Do you mean the amount in AED? If so not really, old car and very high mileage.
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 02 April 2017 - 09:58
I am in a one bed in the Greens and my total DEWA bill is never more than AED450 a month. My Aircon is on a automatic timer so in the summer months is left on all day, I use the washing machine 3 times a week and also have a dishwasher. if you remove the housing my entire bill is only AED100 per month
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 02 April 2017 - 09:54
Skyfall is correct, when my last place was up for rent I had five people in one day interested. I have also moved apartments within a week. You may find that you fall in love with a place, leave Dubai and then it is gone. I don't know if I would hand over a deposit here to an agent unless I was a resident. I would use the time to find areas of interest and then when you are here permanently find a place
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 02 April 2017 - 09:51
Hi, i am new in Jumeirah island and looking for a Laundry Shop near by my place.i will be very thankful if EW ladies will guide me. Thanks. There is Champion Dry cleaners in Meadows Town centre which is close to JI Most people use delivery services as they are relatively cheap
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 30 March 2017 - 14:35
Hi Sadly it doesn't work that way no. Recruiters hire to client requirements and don't find employees work and rarely give advice. Due to workload and the amount of roles they may work on they would only invite candidates in if they have or will shortly have a position. The job market here is very different to that of the West as clients can be specific when it comes to languages/education/salary etc. Candidates are battling against persons who have UAE experience, speak several languages, will accept a lower salary etc etc. Whilst Linked in and Gulf Talent are a good tool for job seekers, candidates have to be very proactive and network, network, network. Pre 2009 agencies would meet everyone as they knew that there would be a role coming or they could send a CV out to a company that said person may be suitable for, sadly in the past few years this has changed drastically and most won't accept unsolicited applications. The job market is very different now post 2009
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 30 March 2017 - 13:14
What questions do you want to ask? Recruitment agencies here aren't the same as employment agencies. They will ask for your CV first and they have a suitable role will contact you. They are work for clients so they have to have a suitable role first
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 30 March 2017 - 13:09
Good afternoon! We want to ask the Landlord for a reduction in rent for the coming year. Is there any "formal" way to do this? Or any "official" wording we should follow? Thanks :-) There isn't anything official, just your reason behind why you are asking for a reduction
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 29 March 2017 - 14:03
I cant remove it as you have both quoted me :-)
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 March 2017 - 08:46
The Marina is very built up compared to the Ranches/DSO however it is very happening :-) and busy so there would be lots for the kids to do. There are lots of restaurants, the beach, Marina Mall ( Cinema is there) close proximity to the metro ( saves Dad being a taxi from the ranches) Most apartments have their own pool, play area etc it is just finding the right building. Have a look at the Views and the Greens ( Emaar developer same as Ranches) too as this has lots of amenities and green open spaces kids of all ages are always out playing. If you look at the buildings below they are a 10 min walk from internet city metro station Turia Dutco Uno Sidir Nakheel
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 March 2017 - 08:40
The supermarkets always have some form of offer on. Carrefour constantly has them on
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 March 2017 - 08:39
I have no idea who you have been speaking with. All of the clients I have and have ever worked with have a HR department ( I have lived and worked in the UAE for over 10 years) Most if not all companies now have some form of HR department. What I will say is that HR roles are down and as you don't have any UAE experience it may take a while for you to secure a role. You have to be very proactive and network, network, network as the roles will not come to you. I would not advertise that you are moving with you partner as cohabiting is illegal here. Yes hundreds do it but its best to keep that quiet and not shout it from the rooftops. Fake friendships occur all over the world, I have a small group of fantastic friends and have been lucky to not have had to deal with the strange ones. Use your initiative and you should be able to weed out the "fake ones" Contraceptives can be bought in the pharmacy over the counter and the injection can be done DR's. Not all pills are stocked here though
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 26 March 2017 - 08:51
Hi, I am getting married in another 6 months and my hair looks terrible. 2 years back, I got my hair permenantly straightened. so my ends are rough and dry and suddenly straight. ( rest is wavy). Last year I dyed my hair red and now it has faded out and look like a dirty brown that looks terrible. I am going to be having an indian wedding and cutting my hair and I am supposed to have long hair for the wedding day and about a month after that. Since I plan on chopping it off a month later, I do not want to spend too much on colouring or any treatment. How well does hair extensions work and how is easy is it to use? Also what would it cost me approximately. If you have had hair extensions, please let me know. If not please suggest me what could be done. Most hair extension stay in for 3 months. I have found the keratin bonds to be the best and they didn't wreck my hair when they were removed. Slam salon near Ace Hardware on SZR do the tape ones. Tapes are much cheaper than the keratin bonds and you can remove them every 3 months, have them washed and reused. Go and see a reputable hairdresser for a consultant. Sadly judging by your post you are going to have to spend a bit to get your hair sorted
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 24 March 2017 - 18:27
I have heard you lose sensation when you get breast transplants... is it true? No I didn't. In fact now is the opposite ??
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 March 2017 - 13:26
Hi, was wondering whether anyone could recommend a plastic surgeon in Dubai for Breast Implants? Thanks Jaffar Khan did mine 5 years ago. Had the op at the Belhoul in Satwa. Went in at 9am had the op at 11am and was home by 4pm No pain and went back to work 2 days later. They itched like crazy when they were healing though I paid AED24,000 but I imagine they are more expensive now.
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Latest post on 20 March 2017 - 16:34
Thank you - all help greatly received. We have found a few areas that seem nice. The Agent also recommended a new area Mudon? You seem to get a lot for your money and brand new. I have a close friend who lives at JI ( They bought many years ago) if I had the cash I would like there as it is lovely!
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 20 March 2017 - 16:33
Thank you for your reply sarahlou123. Can you pls tell me who do u go to? Hi I use DR Allen Rezai at Elite in Dubai Healthcare City. He only does my botox now as a friend in the UK is trained in Restylene so I have it done there for AED500 a syringe. It is three times that here! DR Allen is very patient and explains everything which I like plus he wont do procedures for the sake of it
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Latest post on 19 March 2017 - 20:21
Hi, Do you know if an NOC is required from a bank to say a car load has been paid off in full when driving in Dubai. Thank you for any help No you don't