Hi, my situation is very similar to Andys. The only major difference being that my visa is for JAFZA, which i am told makes things much more straightforward. It seems to me that unless the degree is necessary for the job ie Doctor, teacher, engineer etc, it is experience and proven track record that the employers look for. My new boss checked with about 4 people (none of them given as references), but my educational certificates were not submitted as i didnt have them (although i did apply for copies and they're trickling in now - waste of money actually). My boss wanted me to start ASAP and whole thing took 1 month from siging a contract to getting my residence permit, and Christmas was in the middle of that.
Good luck, its a mad mad place, but i'm so glad i moved - sure you will be too.

DC