touimi | ExpatWoman.com
 

touimi

touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 May 2021 - 21:03
I am nervous too on this subject... My maid just left 9 months into the contract and we spoke to labour department that she took all her stuff and did not allow us to check... since 1 month I have ...
Since you mentioned that she has left. Passport is personal property, by local law. Once you have resolution from the Labour department, you can proceed for cancellation, if that is not automatically done by them. You dont have much to salvage from it. Cancellation document has a last date for change of status or exit country. You need to check in Tasheel after 28 days, if she doesn't update you. In the event she has not complied, file an absconding report. These are the legal remedies.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 February 2019 - 13:11
While this could be a news of excitement if you were in Europe or Americas. But you are not. You will need to discuss this in person with a friend you can trust & is experienced on matters of such nature.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 February 2019 - 13:04
Hello, What help are you looking for? If you could be more specific, may be I can point you to some people I know.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 February 2019 - 12:52
Hello I am a bit wary since 3 year visa is only for Investor or in Free Zone. Normal employment visa by a company is 2 years in mainland company, such as Service industry. Pls share more details so this can be clearer.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 February 2019 - 11:48
Sorry for your experience. Not to sound raciest but unmatched value system usually ends in unmatched expectation / Outcomes. You mention she left exactly on 3 months, was agency guarantee period 3 months? I haven't come across any law to protect employers rights so far. I know exactly how it feels. I had a runaway few years back too. If she is on your sponsorship, you must report her absconding otherwise the consequence of her action remain attached to you, in a certain way.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 October 2018 - 15:07
Hello Swetasaanvi We hired but over a decade back & never needed again. But heard the process has changed. One thing for sure I know that you need to declare that the maid is not related to you by an affidavit to Indian Consulate, The maid will need to get a clearance from Protectorate for Labor. Post these, you will be able to process the visa in UAE.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 October 2018 - 15:03
Hello Check below links where many of us shared our experiences. http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic228434-excellent-housekeeping-service-not-a-shill-regular-poster-here.aspx http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic240060-parttime-housemaid-woes-where-am-i-going-wrong-forum42.aspx Share your experience. Good luck!
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 July 2018 - 14:59
Hello You may find some help here: https://www.expatwoman.com/dubai/forum/maids-home-help/help-hourly-maid-services-cleaning-company-0 Share your experience so we know what works.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 June 2018 - 15:46
Hello, Not just the On-Call maids. I face this with my DH too :-) mood swings are to be dealt with. I wish I could switch my cleaner so conveniently too. Try these threads, you may find some useful suggestions. https://www.expatwoman.com/dubai/forum/dubai-northern-emirates/recommend-me-maid-service-pls https://www.expatwoman.com/dubai/forum/dubai-northern-emirates/excellent-housekeeping-service-not-shill-regular-poster-here
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 May 2018 - 21:43
Depends... if the mop was super expensive, then sure complain. But if it's a bog standard one you can get from any carrefour or ace then don't bother - i'm sure you can afford another one quite eas...
Well put. Human error is a fact. What following action is needed, depends on circumstances and person involved.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 March 2018 - 21:38
Hello Louisella, 1. Looking after pet, including clearing the litter is normally accepted as task for a maid. 2. In UAE, you can hire someone from a company or on your own sponsorship. Anything else is illegal. If she is from an agency / cleaning company, she could very well be recommended in a circle of residents. If she is on her own visa, dont take, fine is AED 50k. 3. Go with what you feel comfortable with. 4. It depends on your lifestyle preferences & budget. See how it goes at start & fine tune it as you go along. 5. I havn't used either of the 2 mentioned agencies so can't comment. you may fine these past articles helpful https://www.expatwoman.com/dubai/forum/maids-home-help/part-time-housemaid-woes-where-am-i-going-wrong https://www.expatwoman.com/dubai/forum/dubai-northern-emirates/excellent-housekeeping-service-not-shill-regular-poster-here Good luck. .
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 March 2018 - 17:37
Hi Emjns 20 seems fine on a normal day. If she was a life saver on a special day then more could be in order.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 February 2018 - 15:07
With all the new tech coming along, my next car will be electric, Tesla or not :-)
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 February 2018 - 14:54
Hello, Most of us have gone through this. I found always help here. You can find some help though these post in past https://www.expatwoman.com/dubai/forum/maids-home-help/part-time-housemaid-woes-where-am-i-going-wrong https://www.expatwoman.com/dubai/forum/dubai-northern-emirates/excellent-housekeeping-service-not-shill-regular-poster-here good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 October 2017 - 22:43
Hello, if I was you, I would live in AD. It's a very family friendly place with good schools. Try to find a school first and live close by. This will make your life much easier. I would recommend to look at newer compounds close to the airport or Yas island. You can get more info on certain fb groups or abudhabiwoman. The Drive from Barakah is a good distance from AD itself. I would choose AD over Dubai in your circumstances. Certainly choose school first & then the residence. Despite public transport, you will need to Buy car to move around as it gets real hot between April to October. Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 October 2017 - 22:32
Honestly, I have seen same documents being rejected by one officer & approved by another. So If I were you, I will apply. My experience with other Freezone was much pleasant. So there are good chances you will get the residency. Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 October 2017 - 22:26
City hospital is really good for delivery. Our experience of City Hospital was most amazing. Well it was about 8 years ago.;)
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 September 2017 - 18:12
I know that this is not your question but I feel this could be useful info. I met this lady called Shree Jadeja, 0566145216 who uses Quilling & other art activities for people with special needs, young and old. I met her when she was offering her art at Dubai Autistic Center & later we bumped into each other again when she was showing art as a tool for Alzheimer group few month ago. Hope this helps
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 September 2017 - 18:05
If you buy a pre-owned car from direct owner or even from a dealer you can always get a pre-purchase check up done through the company I use for my annual registration renewal, icar registration services, 0556600799. I got it done through them when I bought my car 5 years back and am happy I did! Thats a good option. Saved for future option ;)
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 September 2017 - 18:03
I found many friends when I attended social events. Meetup events are good place to meet people interested in same topic but most are network for business. I found some really good people through Meetup. Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 September 2017 - 17:59
Hi touimi,... thanks for ur reply. I'm in Dubai, I'll b importing from India. it'll b nice if I could get a business partner n hv a small store...but even online would be good. I just wanted to know that do we need a lisence for online business n the cost involved etc.. any information will be much appreciated, thanks. Well, as Candyz said rightly, its expensive to start a business in UAE since start up also needs to have an office / shop / showroom / workspace & license fees are no less. To do any legal trade activity officially, you got to have a license in any of the 7 Emirates. Between Mainland or Freezone compant? Mainland company necessitates a physical office rented/owned on company name. This cost is not required if you start from freezone. Ajman freezone has some very low cost options where you can establish your business. Having a business partner is not a light choice. Think VERY carefully. How you reach out to your potential customers, how you make transactions is another step. There are plenty of options that you can choose from. Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 September 2017 - 17:50
Dubai doesn't stop to surprise. I am also keen if this works or has some catch.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 September 2017 - 11:58
AED 300-400 should be an average that you could consider.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 September 2017 - 11:54
I have heard of Nightingale offering such service but never used them myself. I liked the fact that they seem to have option to hire a specially trained staff for before & after deliver. This is not what most Nanny services can claim. I am not sure of their rates. If you wish to hire regular maid/Nanny, there are a plenty online. Just Google. All the best.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 September 2017 - 11:50
Well, its a subject for consultation with a business setup company. You can find many online as well in Google classified. There are several options from trading office or a shop. Which Emirate? Will you import or locally manufacturer. Once those options are clear, it will be easy to choose. Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 September 2017 - 11:43
Well, there is absolute Black & Absolute White. And then there is grey in between. What I am getting at is, legally you can't offer a service for money without license. However I do see Dubai has opened up to lot more of Shared Economy concepts, though I don't know if the rules have relaxed. I wish there was more freedom to do what you are naturally good at, without having to shell out over $20,000 to start. I have heard some people talk of Freelancer license but that is usually in Tech industry like for Media City etc. Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2017 - 20:01
Wow, I thought it was mandatory :biggrin:
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2017 - 19:53
We used Blackout Curtains from IKEA. Its real good ;)
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2017 - 19:52
Its 1 visit act. Of course on a working day. You can do it at Terminal 3 too.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 July 2017 - 15:10
@Sarah321: Cash requirement can be handled in multiple ways. It also depends on amount and payment period you are looking for. Personal Loan is a good option as this is charged generally the lowest interest. However to get personal loan, there are prerequisites which in today's market conditions, is tough. Also, there is a minimum and maximum cap. For smaller amounts or due to not being eligible for personal loan, one can look at Credit card "Cash on Card" option. I have seen in big variety so choose carefully. The best deal I had noticed was by Citibank @0.33% per month which is cheaper than even a personal loan. @winaaisha Well criteria to choose a credit card is crucial. What are you looking for. Convenience, best cash back, special access or offers etc. First, if you are not employed, your options are limited. 1. You can take a supplementary card, if your spouse/parent could get you one. 2. Against your Deposit in bank account 3. Buy Visa Gift Card & load it as you need, if for the sake of not carry cash around. PRIVATE LENDER IS BIG NO NO! Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 June 2017 - 14:59
To my knowledge, employee can not cancel visa themselves. Cancellation process requires Authorized signatory e-signature card, without which the request can't even be submitted. This is done by authorized person from the company.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 June 2017 - 14:22
I would rather stay safe. see link below, posted earlier, might help. http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic228434-excellent-housekeeping-service-not-a-shill-regular-poster-here.aspx http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic240060-parttime-housemaid-woes-where-am-i-going-wrong-forum42.aspx
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 June 2017 - 14:19
Relation is based on terms of engaging the service. Legal is a broad term. I think you should read terms & conditions. That will show you the clarity.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 May 2017 - 18:56
Well, we plan this. We overlap our holidays and maid's holidays. Usually our holidays are shorter so remaining I and my DH manage with off from work in-between. We have been using an agency for a few years now and then, for getting the home cleaned and ironing. Food takes major planning as we don't like dining out all meals, everyday. But we have survived. ;) We are planning 1 of these in this coming summer too :biggrin:
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 May 2017 - 18:49
Well, story of our life, isn't it? We came about 20 years back and in so many years, we got over the homesickness but real relationships are a few to name. One got to really make effort to find people with whom you CAN jive and build relationship. Rest all is transactional. Yes, the way how we found few of those best friends was through common interest activities. Some people just clicked - rest didn't matter. We tried beaches, parks, malls, weekend dinners, Prayer groups, groups online (4x4 group if someone remembers used to get together & head into the desert) The tough part of the year is ahead. Plan else these June, July, August can be seriously challenging. One thing we did - we didn't give up. Here we are now with children growing up and silverline on our head too :) Make a conscious effort to find new focus. Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 May 2017 - 18:38
Thanx for the information at least we are aware of it. But you need to do formal complaint about it. Yes we have filed and official complaint. Thanks for the info. I am reading what you described and thinking to myself, would I question the action of my doctor? It gives me chilling feeling that I should not do so.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 May 2017 - 18:35
I don't think I have all the info but I will share what I do. 1. Long term option must be considered on legal status. Which license? I am not sure. Mainland licenses are much expensive and demand office space etc. License could cost between 15 to 20k. Office could cost 40k onward. 2. I have come across many people who associate themselves with an existing establishment for similar category of license and work through them. 3. I know a friend who established a company in home country, created a website which had option to book classes etc and pay online. Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 May 2017 - 18:31
I tried in Oct last year. It was not a good experience. In investigation, it was revealed that package was held up at GPO and was returned to shipper.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 May 2017 - 18:28
I feel your situation. I think the amount is very limited. I had my son at City hospital and our bill was 20k. And that was in 2009. Need I say more? I guess you need to consider better insurance instead and go for a hospital of your choice. Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 May 2017 - 18:23
Ban on Domestic Helper still continues. Though Hiring locally available maids seem easier choice, but since their recruitment is against their country's law, they won't be able to go home (they will not be allowed out once in the country). Going through recruitment agency is legal method and you may find replacement if the maid didn't work well. good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 January 2017 - 19:10
Hi Ladies, My boyfriend and I are Australian (28years old), and we are currently living in the United States. He is looking to relocate to Dubai for work because though America is great the benefits suck i.e 5 days Annual leave a year! And ZERO sick leave. He works as a Project Manager in Construction, and has great experience on commercial projects and interior fit outs. I was wondering if anyone has any contacts that you could put him in touch with in the Construction industry? Or any advice on the best companies/places and ways to find work. Any kind of help would be much appreciated! Thank you in advance ! Sarah  I'm confused - At the end of 2015 you were moving to Qatar with your husband (http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic238783-what-is-it-like-working-as-a-woman-in-qatar-forum24.aspx). Then this time last year you said you were coming to Dubai with your husband, (http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic240139-moving-to-dubai--love-some-tips-on-moving-and-social-life-forum23.aspx), then last February you said your PARTNERS job had fallen through (http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic240671-partner-disheartened-by-job-search-suggestions--forum23.aspx). This year he's your boyfriend. Is he your husband or boyfriend? It will make a big difference as to what advice people give, as sarahlou123 says, living together in Dubai is illegal and companies won't sponsor you to come here or give travel benefits if you are not married. Lol! Looks like we have our own investigative journalist on EW :-) Lol ;)
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 January 2017 - 19:08
DNRD does not have any restriction to live in another Emirate. However there are times when I have come across the issue of Visa & residence to be same Emirate. But I have never come across any person who have had any issue because of this. And I have lived here over a decade. You will have to go through Abu Dhabi for residency purpose, self or dependents. Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2017 - 14:37
This is not right. I would suggest you tweet to MOE and will see this practice stopped or organized to inform ahead.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 January 2017 - 22:17
My experience has been not much positive. I have won the case in my favor since Jan 2015 and havn't seen a single Dirham so far as and outcome. Time & Money invested seems wasted. This was my experience and not recommending to try your options.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 January 2017 - 22:15
Hi , Teenager has grown out of Santa gift list need.... toddler 3 year old just wants BIIIIIGGGGGGGG presents! Mine asked for Hooverboard :biggrin:
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 January 2017 - 22:12
Hi - can anyone recommend a maid agency that they have had a good experience with recently? We need someone for a month or so as our maid is on a well-deserved holiday :-) Thanks! Hi Spook This thread might help. http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic228434-excellent-housekeeping-service-not-a-shill-regular-poster-here.aspx Good luck
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 January 2017 - 22:05
I currently sponsor my son and nanny in Dubai. But I am losing my job in the next few weeks. Does anyone know when the authorities cancel my visa will I have to cancel my son's and nanny's visa also? I was hoping that they could stay in Dubai a little longer. For my son to continue his school til I find a suitable school for him back at home and the nanny to stay and look after him Hi Eskimo All dependent visas must be cancelled before you can proceed for yours. You could request your sponsor to delay your cancellation if possible so you can sort out your family matters. In case you have another employer, you could give it a try. (Though all cancellation and new visa stamping will be required. Earlier it was possible to hold the dependent from cancellation if you had another job offer - not anymore) Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 January 2017 - 21:59
I plan to rent my apartment directly with my landlady next year without the agent, but she says I will have to pay the municipality fee. What is this and is it my responsibility? Yes you are. It does not even require to be pointed as this is default process.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 January 2017 - 21:58
Hi, I actually work for one of the authorities ( I won't mention the name as I don't want to advertise. :-) ) so if you could tell me which line if business you are in I would be happy to give you further information. Also, do you require offices and if so, do you have any specific area in mind? Is it only you running the business or are you planning to have employees? In regards of investment, I have recently come across a female investment platform which I found very interesting. It's called Womena. I haven't yet worked with them but they seem very professional. Feel free to be in touch for any questions. Good advise. Like most platforms, Womena has specific requirements and benchmarks in terms of size of business, stage of business etc. I have considered them in past but wasn't much of response in my case. I must say it as candidly as I can. I am open for suggestions if anyone can correct my below understanding: To start any business in UAE, licensing and office is significant investment. Of course it depends on what business you choose to consider worth the effort and you can handle. Add these two expenses and then evaluate of you are good with those numbers. Then comes rest of the investments & choices etc Good luck.
touimi
311
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 January 2017 - 21:52
The law re public holidays only applies to employees not to domestic workers. Legally you dont have to give it to her. Until 2016, all domestic helpers didn't fall in same category. I hear its about to change in 2017.
 
 
What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Babyshop Family Travel Essentials Guide

Must-Have Family Travel Essentials From Babyshop

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

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

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

(Images: Supplied)

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

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

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

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

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

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

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

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

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

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

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

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

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

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

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa

A Restful and Luxurious Getaway in Bali, Indonesia

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

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

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

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

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

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

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing

The Real Expat: Finding Your Anchor and True Belonging

The Real Expat: Finding Your Anchor and True Belonging

Finding Meaning in Your Expat Experience

Finding Meaning in Your Expat Experience

12 Inspirational Thoughts for women in Dubai to remember this International Women’s Day

12 Inspirational Thoughts for Women in Dubai to Remember This International Women’s Day

Top 5 Places to Visit While Living in Visiting Western Australia

Top 5 Places to Visit While Living in Visiting Western Australia

10 Things to Do in the Northern Island of New Zealand

10 Things to Do in the Northern Island of New Zealand

Top 5 English-Speaking Countries for Expats

Top 5 English-Speaking Countries for Expats