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Expat Women Living in the United Arab Emirates
If you are (or plan to be) an expat living in the United Arab Emirates, please find below a list of expat clubs, schools, general links for women living in the United Arab Emirates, country information and more...
Note: The United Arab Emirates (also the UAE or the Emirates) is comprised of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Ajmân, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm al-Quwain. Most expatriates live in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
American Women's Association http://www.awadubai.org/ awa_of_dubai@yahoo.com
Social group for American women. Weekly meet up and guest speakers, trips away, information about living in Dubai.
Dubai Kidz http://dubaikidz.biz
Website for families and children - plenty of links to schools, kiddies shops, medical info, activities for mothers and babies etc.
Expat Woman http://www.expatwoman.com
Go to site for most things in Dubai - social networking and information site for Dubai. Also websites for Saudi and Qatar.
International Business Women's Group in Dubai
Lunch meetings every second Monday of the month & Breakfast meetings every last Monday of the month. ibwg_dxb@emirates.net.ae
AngloINFO Dubai http://www.dubai.angloinfo.com
AngloINFO Dubai has over 150 pages of content aimed at helping expats transition into their new life in Dubai. Topics range from how to obtain a residence visa, having a baby, applying for a liquor license, schooling information and how to rent an apartment/home.
Australian and NZ Business Group http://www.anzauae.org/index.asp
Social and business related networking for Australian and Nzer's in Dubai.
Contact Networking Dubai http://www.cnetdubai.com/
General networking association with regular meet ups for anyone interested. No joining fee or restrictions.
Dubai Caledonian Society http://www.dubaicaledoniansociety.com/
Membership Enquiries email: secretary@dubaicaledoniansociety.com
The main aims of the Dubai Caledonian Society are to bring to Dubai and the UAE a taste of Scotland, to encourage multi-national ties in both business and social arenas and to raise funds for charities both in Scotland and the UAE.
Dubai Expat http://www.dubaiexpat.com/
This site aims to welcome expats to Dubai. No matter where you're from - UK, Canada, the US, India, Pakistan, Lebanon, South Africa or China just to name a few of the larger groups here - you'll always be welcome.
My Destination is a global travel resource powered by a diverse community of local experts on the ground, providing unrivalled local knowledge and unique local deals.
My Move Dubai http://www.mymovedubai.com/
The Best of Dubai - this guide is your key to moving and living in Dubai. Essential information for relocating to Dubai, with advice on accommodation, schools, banking, jobs and much more.
Al Nahda National School, Abu Dhabi. http://www.nahdaschools.com/message.php?lang=EN
Al Nahda National School, a Private English Medium School, located in the United Arab Emirates, was founded in September 1983, with the objective of providing quality schooling, whilst offering a strong academic programme to satisfy the needs, interests, and abilities of most U.A.E. and expatriate citizens. It caters for students from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
Al Shohub School, Abu Dhabi. http://www.alshohub.org/
Opened in 1999 as a small girls' secondary school, Al Shohub offers a high-quality British curriculum education within a multi-cultural environment. The thriving KG and Primary department welcomes girls aged 3-11 and boys up to Grade 4, who follow the National Curriculum up to Key Stage 2. The girls in our Secondary section work towards GCSE and Advanced level examinations, in preparation for university entrance both in the United Arab Emirates and abroad.
American Community School of Abu Dhabi http://www.acs.sch.ae
Using an American-based curriculum in a co-educational setting, 991 students at ACS represent 52 different nationalities of which American (57%), Canadian (7%), and U.A.E. (3%) nationalities are most prevalent. Enrolment is open to all English-speaking students.
Al Ain English Speaking School http://www.aaess.com Al Ain English Speaking School was set up by seven local companies located in the city of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi in 1978. The School is now owned by:
H.H. Sheikh Hazza Bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, and is a declared non-profit School. It operates a British system from nursery class to A-Level examinations at age 18.
Fujairah
Fujairah Private Academy http://www.fpa.sch.ae
Fujairah Private Academy provides an education for children from 3.5 years to 18 years of age and is wholly owned by the Government of Fujairah. It is a non profit making educational establishment with a school role of circa 400 students drawn from the local community with UAE nationals providing the largest section of the school population. The school operates in a conservative manner and aims at providing a British style education in a bilingual environment.
The International School of Choueifat, UAE. http://www.iscuae-sabis.net
There are nine schools located in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Al-Ain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Ruwais, Um Al-Qiwain, Doha, and Muscat. The International Schools of Choueifat in the Gulf operate in purpose-built premises set in campuses of various sizes. The schools have an international body of staff and students. Currently, the student population in the nine schools is drawn from approximately 80 different countries and is expected to encompass more than 16,000 students in the 2008-09 academic year.
Deira International School, Dubai http://www.disdubai.ae
The Deira International School (DIS) began its first year of operation in September 2005, welcoming students to a state of the art new campus. The 80,000 sq.m. facility, located in Dubai Festival City is one of the best designed in the region. DIS offers high quality British education from FS1 to Year 12, and will progress to year 13 enabling students to complete their education in the coming year.
The Deira International School (DIS) began its first year of operation in September 2005, welcoming students to a state of the art new campus. The 80,000 sq.m. facility, located in Dubai Festival City is one of the best designed in the region. DIS offers high quality British education from FS1 to Year 12, and will progress to year 13 enabling students to complete their education in the coming year.
Dubai British School http://www.dubaibritishschool.ae/
A member of the Taaleem Group of schools, DBS offers a challenging education to over a thousand students aged 3 to 18. The curriculum is modelled on the National Curriculum for England, significantly enhanced by the International Primary Curriculum in the primary school, the study of Arabic throughout and a challenging set of GCSE and GCE A Level courses from Year 9 to Year 13.
Dubai English Speaking School http://www.dessdxb.com/
D.E.S.S. was the first British school in The United Arab Emirates, established in 1963 by Sheikh Rashid, the then ruler of the Dubai. They are a not-for profit school administered by a Board of Governors.
GEMS Wellington School, Dubai http://www.wellingtoninternationalschool.com
Wellington International School provides a vibrant, supportive and creative learning environment that encourages challenge, curiosity and choice. They provide a learning programme from Foundation stage 1 - Year 13. Our excellent standards in both learning and teaching create a learning programme that is exceptionally rich, relevant and fun.
Higher Colleges of Technology http://www.hct.ac.ae The system of the Higher Colleges of Technology is a community of more than 16,000 students and almost 2,000 staff based on 16 campuses throughout the United Arab Emirates (UAE) - the largest higher education institution in the UAE
Jebel Ali School, Dubai http://www.jebelalischool.org/
Jebel Ali Primary School was founded in 1977 and is now one of the oldest schools in Dubai. The School has independent status and operates on a non-profit making basis and teaches the British Curriculum. The school has a wealth of experience and an enviable reputation for excellence.
Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) Dubai http://www.jess.sch.ae
Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) follows the National Curriculum for England and Wales and the academic year runs from September to June. All children admitted into Jumeirah English Speaking School must be fluent in English and able to access all areas of the curriculum through the medium of English.
Kings Dubai. http://www.kingsdubai.com/
Kings' Dubai is a purpose built Primary School offering first class education for children aged 3- 11.
Regent International School, Dubai http://www.risdubai.com
Regent International School (RIS) is a private, independent, co-educational, international day school offering the National Curriculum for England and Wales at the Primary and Middle School, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program at Senior School.
Sharjah English School http://www.sharjahenglishschool.org/
Established in 1974, Sharjah English School provides quality primary and secondary education for English-speaking children between the ages of 3 and 19. The teachers are qualified and experienced British professionals. The school offers an education based upon the English National Curriculum. In Key Stage 4 GCSEs are taught; the sixth form GCE AS and A-Level course are followed.
The Australian International School, Sharjah. http://www.ais.ae
The Australian International School is quality assured by Education Queensland and is the first Australian school in the Middle East. The curriculum is designed from the early years to year 12 with students following a clear and well planned pathway to tertiary education.
Victoria English School, Sharjah. http://www.victoriaenglishschool.ae
VES was established in 1996 and moved in September 2002 to its own purpose built school. The roll from Nursery to grade 13 is currently 725. Maximum class size is 22. The school follows the English National Curriculum, though students are not exclusively British. A full range of GCSE, IGCSE, A/S and A Level courses is offered. Â There is an active Parent-Teacher Association which supports the school and organises regular social events.
Gulf News http://gulfnews.com/ The largest English language newspaper covering the Gulf region. Includes a vast job section from both recruitment agencies and independents. Recommended for job searchers.
Useful Articles in another country requires more than just the obvious CV translation. You will be confronted with issues
that probably didn't even cross your mind when you decided to go for an international career, but don't underestimate
the big impact they can have on the outcome of your adventure! Think for example about the different rules and
habits regarding immigration, job application procedures, the selection procedures and the management culture.
Taking a look at whether the jobs market in Dubai really is in crisis, or whether it is still possible to get work in Dubai and move to the emirate as an expat
A guide to the lifestyle available for expatriates living in Dubai, and the laws they need to adhere to if they are to keep on the right side of authorities in the UAE
Top 5 Tips for Expat Women in the United Arab Emirates
These tips were kindly provided by volunteer Expat Women Mentors in 2007. ExpatWomen.com shares these tips in an effort to help but takes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information.
Provided by Erikan H, South African, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
1.
Make sure of package offered that it includes all current expenses and utilities.
2.
Start looking for schools before you get here.
3.
Don't trust what you read on some Real Estate web sites.
4.
Make contact with someone from your country living in the same place that you're moving to.
5.
Gather as much information about your new location, local customs, religions, do's and don'ts, road laws etc.
Provided by Layla A, British, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
1.
Seek help.
2.
Explore all options before making a decision.
3.
Live within your means and not to keep up with the current trend.
4.
Have a step by step plan.
5.
Enjoy!
Provided by Suvarna V, Indian, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
1.
Know your locality where you stay.
2.
Learn what the emergency numbers are.
3.
Learn where the Emergency hospitals you might have to go with your children.
4.
Find good restaurants and entertainment places to go.
Provided by Satvinda J, Indian, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
1.
Cost of living is low.
2.
Safe and Secure place.
3.
International Brands easily available in the malls.
4.
Banking Facilities are easily available.
5.
Don't forget to carry your sunscreen along with you.
Provided by Nehad T, American Jordanian, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
1.
It's a lovely place to live in.
2.
Cost of living is high.
3.
Quality of living is high.
4.
Schooling is expensive.
5.
Weather is amazing during winter time and very hot during summer time.
Provided by Heba Q, Egyptian, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
1.
If you are coming to Dubai to look for a job, give yourself a time span of 3 months. Do not wait to apply for a job when you arrive. Start the process ONE month before you arrive. Almost 90% of agencies accept your CV online. In fact, walk-ins are not accepted in most. You will save time, and will probably land a couple of interviews by your first month.
2.
Accommodation is very expensive. If you have friends, great – stay with them till you get a job, or get yourself settled. If not, consider renting a room in a villa with a group of girls, for example. You will find new ads on sublets on http://www.dubizzle.com added everyday. It is cheaper and you will get to make new friends.
3.
Driving is a must in Dubai. At least till the Metro Project is complete (by 2010). Make sure you get an international license before you come to be able to rent a car. Taxis are expensive.
4.
Dubai can be a lovely enjoyable and relaxing place to live in, and it can be a nerve wrecking race! If you do move to Dubai, try to take your time in everything and enjoy it.
5.
If you are looking for a partner, Dubai is NOT the place for that (unfortunately).
Provided by Marion H, Dutch, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
1.
Get your own transport as soon as possible.
2.
Don't be afraid of the traffic, you will get used to it in no time.
3.
Don't hesitate to get in touch with people that can show you around.
4.
Make sure that you have arranged schooling for the children before you come out.
5.
Enjoy the good weather in wintertime and just endure the hot summers.
Provided by Zaibu, South African, Fujairah, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
1.
Patience – be patient as things are not always done as fast or in the same way as "home" or in the same time frame.
2.
Necessities – bring your basic necessities for a minimum 1 month... you never know until you get to your destination how close to the shopping centre you will be to run down to get something or if they even have the same or similar brand.
3.
Adventure – this is an exciting adventure/chapter in your life... things are going to be different... have an adventurous spirit to roll-with-the-punches.
4.
Knowledge – Know a little about the place (climate, dress code, culture).
5.
In touch – Stay in touch with your family and friends... they're going to be your support base until you're settled in comfortably. They're a wonderful source for ideas in a "stressed" moment when you cannot think of what to do – especially EXPATWOMEN.COM!!!
Provided by Amalia C, Filipino, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
1.
If you believe in a higher being, always pray.
2.
Get as much information about the country i.e. culture, food preferences, languages spoken, religion, etc.
3.
Have a brief, concise compilation of all pertinent documents that you would be needed upon moving to a new location. i.e. birth certificate (authenticated and photocopy) marriage contract (if applicable), passport and visa photocopy, pictures (passport and 1 x 1), location/directional map, latest medical record and contact numbers, addresses of persons whom you might know in the new location.
4.
Bring personal medicines and have a list of its possible alternatives.
5.
Make sure you know the address and contact numbers of your respective embassy or consulate.
Provided by Magda L, South African, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
1.
To treat your whole move as an adventure and retain your sense of humor.
2.
To get connected to cyberspace as a matter of priority.
3.
To join other expat groups as soon as possible as well as an online information and support board.
4.
To integrate with the culture of your adopted country as soon as possible – this would entail attending functions/lectures/courses where you learn more about your host country.
5.
To explore, explore, explore and not to be afraid to try out new things.
Settling In Tips for the United Arab Emirates
ExpatWomen thanks Dubai City Guide for supplying the following Settling In Tips for the UAE. This is only a small summary to help you get acquainted to your new country. You can find much more detailed information, including local websites (that we have not included here) at their website http://www.dubaicityguide.com.
All visitors, except for nationals of the Arab Gulf Co-operation Council (AGCC), require a visa sponsored by a local entity such as a hotel or tour company. There are two types of visas: transit visas (lasting for 14 days) and visit/working visa. This visa is issued for people who are sponsored by a company in the UAE. It is valid for two months from the date of arrival, with the option of a one month extension. Airlines may require confirmation that the sponsor is holding a valid visa for incoming visitors. You must obtain the visa prior to departure. Please check with the UAE Embassy in your respective country.
There are two types of Resident visas: sponsorship by employer or sponsorship by family. They are renewable every 3 years. Once resident, you must not leave the nation for more than 6 month or the residency will lapse.
Once you have obtained your resident visa you can get your Labor Card issued by employer (Immigration). Usually the Public Relations Officer of company will obtain this document on employer's behalf.
The cost of living is relatively high in the UAE, and those seeking work are advised to try and obtain employment packages that include a housing allowance.
There is a good selection of satellite channels to choose from and video/DVD rental stores.
Televisions and videos run on the XXX standard. DVD players are organized by region codes so make sure you buy the right DVDs for the right DVD player or, alternatively, a multi-system player.
For connection to the World Wide Web, Emirates Internet & Multimedia is the sole provider of internet services through its UAE proxy server. Access to some sites is restricted. You can access Emirates Internet from any standard telephone line using a 56K modem.
There is no house address based mailing system in the UAE. All mails are delivered to the central post office and then distributed to centrally located post office boxes. It is also possible to rent a personal PO box in the UAE.
Utilities are generally not included in the original list price of rent when looking for an apartment. It depends on the landlord; about half the time, they will not be included. Be certain to clarify this with your landlord. The tenant is expected to pay utility fees.
Electricity & water along with sewerage are provided by the local electricity and water authority.
Gas mains don't exist hence individual canisters need to be purchased and connected to a gas oven via an outside tap. Keep the telephone number of gas suppliers handy and canisters can be delivered to you in less than 20 minutes of your call, anytime of the day.
Renting is still the main option although non nationals now have the opportunity to purchase a home in the UAE. Many apartment buildings have excellent recreational facilities - gym, sauna, satellite television or in-house video and covered car parking are some of the available facilities that the residents can make use of.
Most rented accommodation is unfurnished (although kitchens may be partly or fully equipped). Many villas and new apartments have central air-conditioning already installed and a range of furniture and household equipment. For top-of-the-range villas, the choice is between larger independent properties or smaller villas in compounds. The latter usually have swimming pools, squash and tennis courts.
Rent is usually paid in full upfront (if lease is for one year, then two checks can be provided - one being back-dated). Besides this there is usually a deposit requested moving in (refundable).
Where Expats Live:
Abu Dhabi
Corniche (meaning sea/ocean view). Khalidiya, Hamdam Street & Tourist Club stand out to expats due to the many high rise apartments. Villas (much more expensive than apartments) can be found in the Karama neighborhood (as well as some along the Corniche/Khaladiya area).
Dubai
Jumeirah, Umm Sequim, Emirates Lakes, Emirates Hills, Mirdiff for villas and Bur Dubai & Sheikh Zayed for apartments. Each of these areas is prized for its proximity to good schools and shopping.
The currency used in the UAE is the Dirham. (1 AED = 100 fils) • Notes (Dirham): 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000
• Coins (Dirham): 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 (5 and 10 coins are rarely used)
The best way to exchange money is at a foreign exchange office or at any bank. Credit cards are widely accepted although it is recommended that you take cash with you when shopping at the Souqs (markets). Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) are available at all major banks
Common forms of payment:
• Cash
• Debit card
• Credit cards (Visa, EuroCard, Mastercard, Diners Club, American Express)
To open a bank account you must be a holder of a valid UAE residence visa, certificate of employment and salary certificate. An account can be opened as soon as a visa has been issued (renting a home is not a prerequisite).
Banking hours are generally Saturday to Wednesday ( 8:00 a.m. to 15:30 p.m. ) & Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 14:00 p.m. Some banks open in the evening but please check with your local institution.
Rent is usually paid by check. Utility bills are payable in several ways: by cash to the local office, via banking machines (your local bank can make the payment on your behalf and they will deduct the amount from your account) and over the Internet.
The Health and Medical Services Department provides medical care for all UAE nationals, visitors and resident expatriates.
Medical care at public hospitals is sufficient, however, the majority of expats seek medical care from private clinics/hospitals. All employees (and depen dan ts) are eligible for medical treatment at government hospitals (provided they have a health card, which is generally arranged by the company).
Pharmacies are all called Pharmacy and have signs in English which clearly identify them as such.
In the UAE, people drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Most expatriates have a car.
All vehicles must be registered with the local police (traffic department) In addition, residents must go to the traffic department in order to obtain a local UAE drivers license. Certain country nationals may exchange their drivers license others will have to take a local driving test. See with the UAE Embassy nearest you.
Insurance is mandatory (third party liability).
Many local drivers speed and change lanes without looking wild abandon. Accidents occur frequently and visitors are advised to drive defensively. Outside the city centre, signposts are rare, making a good road map essential, to avoid heading aimlessly out into the desert.
Spinneys, Choithrams and Carrefour are the most popular expat grocery stores. One can find household items at Carrefour, Ikea, The One, Home Centre.
Possibly Dubai 's greatest sport, shopping in Dubai is on a world scale. The city boasts a vast range of malls, from traditional souqs in Deira and Bur Dubai to modern and spacious malls, featuring boutique, designer and high street brands.
Clothing should not be too revealing, as the UAE is a Muslim country. It is acceptable to wear shorts & T-shirts but the shoulders should be covered. Women should avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing.
Household staff is quite common in the UAE.There are several home help agencies in Dubai. Leading ones are Helpers and Molly Maids. They typically charge Dhs 2,000/month for 8 hours of help per day.
Spouses are usually sponsored by the working party in the marriage. It is difficult for females to sponsor other family members. To sponsor a wife or child, your minimum monthly salary (all inclusive) would have to be DHS 4,000.
Here are many restaurants and evening activities in the large cities in the UAE.
Sports are very popular. International sporting stars and teams are flown in regularly to compete. Common sports: Golf, Horseracing, Water Sports, Tennis, Rugby.
The UAE has desert climate with temperatures ranging from 50 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to 118 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.The best time to visit is between October and May. The hottest time is from June to September with little rainfall. Summers can be unbearably hot.
Immigration/Visas and Permits
