markhighpeak

If you where coming to the UAE and with your knowledge of the area/s, would you rather live in AD or Dubai? From what i've read on here, Dubai is a lot more frantic than AD, but no matter where you go, accomodation and schooling are both as bad.

I fly out there for 1 weeks scoutung next week and will be looking at both areas, but due to my limited time, I would appreciate any feedback on the people that live out there?

I will hopefully be bringing the missus and 3 young children out when the time is right.

admon

Abu Dhabi for families, Dubai for singles and young couples.

Although that may change in the coming years, with Abu Dhabi moving up another gear or two..

lionheart

Abu Dhabi for well balanced human beings and Dubai for nutters, unless you are rich and can afford a 5* life style.

busybee2

dubai has a lot more 'going on' but if you are trying for a british school i would say that dubai is the better choice, there are definately more of them, in ad there are only 1 old one age 3-18 (wait list) and a new one this year but only primary age up to 11, another new one being built to open sometime in sept only going up to year9 in first instance. Houses you will find a lot more in dubai much cheaper than at the mo in AD its gone mad!

MataHari

I just love it here in Dubai...and I'd hate it if we had to move to AD...
can't really say why...I am used to living here now, know my way round and everything, kids are settled etc...
The fact that you have kids doesn't necessarily mean that therefore you want things to be quiet by the way...just like not all singles or couples are out on the town all the time. There is more going on in Dubai that's for sure, but it's still an individual choice whether or not you participate in all those activities. Life in the residential areas is just as normal as it is anywhere else I'd say...
The whole nutter thing...I am not sure what LH means by that, but I don't feel Dubai is full of nutters. And as for money...yeah, it does make life a hell of a lot easier but isn't that the case anyway...

Madam Medusa

i've got kids and i, and they, love it here...why would dubai only be for singles and couples???

MM, xx

MataHari

I don't get that distinction either...surely it's good to have a lot of things going on so you can pick what you like either for yourself or for the kids...
and again, it's not like you have to do it all...it's just there in case you want it

Blue Cat

I would say go for the one where you can get school places, and that looks like it might be Dubai over AD. Loads of families here in Dubai. Make sure you get a good package, living here with three kids aint cheap.

admon

Wooooaaaaahh there...

Back off the mic a little please..
I only gave my opinion that I think AD is better for families..

also I didn't say dubai would only be for singles and couples..

twinkle-star

Ive lived in both!
Dubai seems to be more spread out so takes a half hour taxi ride (if you can get one) in the evenings to go out. loads of stuff for families My Sister in laws kids loved it there!!
Abu Dhabi seems to be all in one place. We have a better social life here as it is easier to get to places and see friends! There are still loads of bars and restaurants here. Most of the brunch places cater for children too...

I think you will just have to decide what is personally best for you!
Buy Abu Dhabi and Dubai explorer books its gives good information about both places.

lionheart

I was very impressed with the traffic system and greenery when I visited AD on business yesterday...and that new white mosque on the way to the airport...its a big bugger, that's for sure. Can non-Muslims take a peak inside?

Sam FTQ

Yes, you can visit the mosque, but you need to ring and make an appointment. It has the biggest carpet in the world! Also, check out the Picasso exhibition at Emirates Palace if you are coming back before September.

lionheart

I was definitely planning to see the exhibition but not sure about making an appointment to see the mosque. Do you happen to have Allah's number to hand?

Inselaffen

their bill for Shake'n'vac must be huge!

Madam Medusa

course, and i'm just saying that dubai is great for families...i wouldn't want to live in AD for sure...!

MM, xx