mr_man

Hi all,

My wife and I are contemplating a move to the UAE, however are unsure whether it will be worth our while. Would be great to get some feedback on what everyone thinks.

Bit of a background (in bullet point because that's how my brain works):
- We're both 28 with no kids (yet- I think she's getting a bit clucky though)
- We're both qualified chartered accountants with over 8 years experience (hence the bullet points)
- We're based in Australia.
- I carry a GCC passport and an Australian one, so visa and Arabic should not be an issue for me. She only holds an Australian passport, so we'll need to consider a working visa for her.
- Collectively, we earn around $250k (before tax). After tax and all expenses, we save around AED10k - AED20k per month here in Australia.
- Speaking to some recruitment consultants, I've been told that I should get a job pretty easily (arabic and GCC passport really helps). I've been 'offered' a senior finance role with a basic salary of AED40k + bonus + benefits.

Questions:
- If we were to make the move, I'd get a job first and she'd start looking once we relocated. Would she have to exit and re-enter the UAE to switch to a working visa?
- Are there any females that have worked in the UAE in this forum? What are your thoughts?
- If I earn AED 40k + bonus + benefits and she earns AED20k, would that make it worthwhile? If not, then how much would you ask?

We're both quite happy in Australia and would only consider a move if the savings potential was worthwhile.

I've been away from the GCC since 2006 so I'm out of touch with cost of living etc around there.

Thanks!

Blue Cat

Welcome, loads of women work here, it isn't KSA. You would come, get your residency visa then you would sponsor your wife, thus avoiding coming in and out on visit visa's. Then if she wants to work she gets a job and you give her a no objection letter. If you are both accountants then why can't she earn the same as you? think about it 40k is a good salary but have they offered you housing allowance as well? what other benefits?

come anyway we know you Ozzies come so you can travel around Europe so why not give it a try

lionheart

With the money you presently earn and the good quality life style you undoubtedly enjoy, you would be foolish to move here. The grass is not always greener on the other side, especially when the other side is basically a desert with concrete trimmings. I would kill to be in your shoes.

Tockalosh

If you are not sure about coming then you have really answered the question. Stay at home and enjoy living where you enjoy life