CeeBee

Well, although I'm a bloke I came when I was 24 on my own having never been before.

I'd say that if the package seems ok and if you can be sure of a bit of job security then go for it. There are loads of single girls that have done the same.

My only bit of advice would be 1) don't buy a car - rent one, even though it seems like dead money, and 2) If the bank gives you credit cards cut them up and forget about them.

You'll learn that out here debit cards aren't really used...the banks don't really issue them. So you're forced to either carry around the cash with you or put everything on credit card (which can easily be forgotten about).

Having debt here is the worst thing you can do at the moment as if something happens you're stranded until you've fully paid up.

Best of luck.

GemsyB

Thanks to all who have replied, I quote the above reply as this one, I think, was a bit much. Maybe it is your 'sense of humour' but you certainly make assumptions and read far too much into things!

I actually said 'what sounds like a fantastic salary/package....' maybe fantastic was the wrong word - its certainly not millions and probably by your standards will be low/nothing to shout about.....what do you suggest the annual salary should be to live there?
No I haven't met my employer - a franchise company of UK and International retailers, that would be this week in London. Im in retail management.

The RECRUITMENT AGENCY (Talisman, if any of you have already had dealings with them), certainly not 'pimp'!!!!...have explained a salary (£24k), a relocation package, flight to Dubai and back again should I leave, return flights to and from UK to visit home, insurances (medical, life etc) 1st month rent on accomodation included, with discounted rate should I stay there longer, then an upfront percentage of a few months salary to pay a cheque for my chosen accomodation.

Im not saying I have all bases covered as I wouldnt be asking for help/advice, what does this sound like to you guys who have done it? Am I wasting my time, or does this sound reasonable, is there anything missing that I should ask about before persuing this???

All helpful replies appreciated, many thanks!

Gemma

Roadking

Hi Gemma, don't take offence as I'm sure none was intended. If you browse through previous threads you will see that we often get people on asking for advice and, in most cases, it's the same; do your homework as it's a big move and does go very wrong sometimes.
The other thing you need to consider is rent on somewhere. They are starting to introduce staged payments but in many cases it's still 12 months in advance +5% deposit +5% agency fee. This is where it can all go wrong unless you have the support of your employer.
Good luck and keep asking questions.

Blue Cat

24,000 quid = approx 125,000 dhs = 10,400 dhs a month salary
it's a no goer I am afraid unless they are going to provide you with an apartment.

GemsyB

What would you say I would need to earn to live out there then?
What is the average salary?
For the job I am applying to the salary ranges from 19K, so how to people live on that?
...sigh... glad to hear some realistic answers guys, recruitment agent is ringing me later to arrange interview slot, have no idea what to tell her, what to do.....?

Thanks again
Gemma

Blue Cat

what exactly is the position they are talking about?

GemsyB

Thanks for your help!

Its for Landmark Group who have New Look, Reiss, Koton and Aftershock as franchise stores out there.
The position is Store Manager for a new store for one of the brands.
Apparently there are several new stores opening up and they are recruiting for more than 1 position.

Gemma

typical

I use my debit card for everything (except online stuff where infuriatingly it doesn't work).

Blue Cat

go for the interview and find out of they are going to give you accomodation, if not don't take it.

GemsyB

I know they wont....already discussed that....
Have you got a figure I should be aiming for to be able to live out there???

Many Thanks
x

typical

As with most things, it depends how comfortable you want to be...

A room in a shared apartment will cost around 4000 per month (less if you live in a less desirable area, it does depend where you're working!)

If you want a car, running costs are similar to the UK except for petrol. Leasing might be better because you'll be sure of your outgoings.

Nights out are generally expensive. 30+ per drink, though you can get drunk cheap at women's nights.

Clothes in the malls are much the same - or more - than the UK. Nearly all UK retailers have a mark up over UK prices.

Eating out costs from 60 up for one outside the food courts.

Madam Medusa

those brands are all doing really, really well here, but landmark are notoriously bad payers...on the salary you've mentioned, you'll be looking at a house-share, and won't have much to play with at the end of the month...given you're young and single, you may decide you've got nothing to lose...

MM, xx

Blue Cat

then it is a no goer, their loss

The Dean

What the hell did I say that upset you???

That was one of my milder efforts..............

Grow a spine love - you'll need one to live alone out here......... dreadful place........ terrifying..........

GemsyB

got one thanks