loutom123

Hi everyone

My fiance and I are trying to plot our next move abroad. I work in construction and the middle east looks like the most likely place that we'll be able to get work. We've had a look around and of the places in the middle east we'd prefer Abu Dhabi. I'm looking for some advice on the following:

1. Is it an enjoyable place to stay?
2. Will she find it particularly restrictive (being a woman)?
3. What is the general cost of living for a couple? (I've seen stuff for families and schools etc on here but we're not in that bracket)
4. What are the things about AD that you would prefer to Dubai?
5. For people who work in construction; are you generally driving for hours to get to work or is it quite local to the main construction areas?
6. Is anyone looking for a QS??

I'd really appreciate any advice on this. We're both Scottish and have been living in the caribbean for a year so we're ready for a shock to the system, just want to get a good understanding of it.

Thanks

Aikman7981

All I can say is that Abu Dhabi seems nice. Traffic seems the biggest drawback aside from the astronomical cost of living. I don't know how it stacks up internationally but it would compare to Honolulu (most expensive in the US). Possibly even worse if school is a factor or you want inexpensive accomodation since that may not exist to anything near western standards.

The only thing shocking about Abu Dhabi (or Al Ain) is how non-shocking it really is here.

commander

think there are lots of construction people getting made redundant out here..

littlejimmy

Look in the jobs section. Once you've posted 5 messages (I think) you can start sending PMs to people.

loutom123

Really? Thanks for that...I wonder if posting this reply will get me on my way...if it does there's a fair chance I'll be responding a few times!!

Thanks

Poitin

Yes there seems to more job for QS these days - but you are competing with the ones that got laid off here.

You should be married.( I won't come here without been married)

Costs depends on your lifestyle - you can do the 5 star hotels every weekend or go camping to the desert with a few beers (cheap).

Don't know much about Abu Dhabi - but lots to do in Dubai (if you have the money)

loutom123

So is it against the laws to be living together but not married? Is this something that could be picked up upon or is it one of these things that doesn't happen?

commander

it goes on all the time, just be descrete..if strangers ever ask, then you are married..

busybee2

as long as you dont get pregnant, go onto adw and see whats happening on there about a thread on a new mum etc

Poitin

If she gets a job then the company can cover her visa and pay for her health care.
I known lots of couples here that aren't married but it has caused lots of headaches - having to do serveral visa runs etc. I just don't think its worth all the stress.

I also think that if there are less expats here next year - the government will crack down on their laws a bit more - especially in AD.

hawkhead

Why?

busybee2

give them something to do perhaps

Poitin

Why not? They'll have more time on their hands

Lets see- what happens. Just for the OP to be aware of the law here - won't rush into getting married though.

Just heard the other day about a british bloke banged up for been drunk and not having a drink license - must get mine renewed.

Grace O Malley

not just stangers. If anyone asks, you're married, even new friends.

Grace O Malley

How so. It was less strict 12 years ago with fewer expats....