As this forum is relatively new and people seem to be asking the same questions all the time I thought I would start this thread as I feel it is valuable information that is need.


Schools

BSME: British Schools in the Middle East - there are more but doing an internet search is a good way to find out information

Residency Visa

This is supplied by your employer, once you arrive the application for residency visa starts. You will need to have a blood test and in some cases a chest xray. This is organised by your Company. If you are a British Passport Holder you can stay in the UAE for 60 days without a visa, you can also exit and re-enter on two occasions before completing your residency visa.

In most cases you will need your residency visa to enable you to rent accomodation. Some however will take a letter from your Company confirming that they are infact going through the process of applying for your visa. Some banks will allow you to open an account without your visa but I am not 100% sure which ones. You WILL need a visa to obtain any credit and also to buy and register a vehicle.

Accomodation

Expensive! ensure that you get a big enough housing allowance to cover your rent. Rents for one bed apartments are starting in the region of 90k up to 120k and 120k to 150k for a two depending on the area where you choose to live.

Villas - 3 bed - 180 - 200K
4 bed - 220 upwards

The main European areas are the developments that have been built buy Emaar - The Springs, The Meadows, The Lakes, The Ranches, The Greens. There are however europeans living all over Dubai so don't isolate yourself to just one area. The best way to chose where to live is to live as close to your place of work as possible.

Traffic and the Roads

Horrendous - no other word to describe the standard of driving out here. You do get used to it. Cars are way cheaper than the UK and it cost me 10 quid to fill up the tank - that is the plus point of having to endanger your life every day!

I think that's it