Flossie, many thanks for this, it's super helpful. Yes, we're married; have gotten into the lingo of these parts where everyone's a partner We would probably be looking at an apartment rather than a villa initially, with a view to a possible move after a year perhaps.

We're told they'll pay the 5% agency fee but no mention was made of a security or housing fee. Forgive my ignorance but does the latter apply to apartments as well? Assuming we get an apartment -- btw, is the Marina area any good, for supermarkets, etc? Ideally the Jumeriah Beach Residence -- what can you expect roughly in terms of monthly utilities?

We're selling our place here so no mortgage to carry and we'll definitely be buying a car, so I can ferry the kids around. Thanks for the tip on school fees! Hubby is checking now on whether it's an allowance or fees paid. We have a 6-yr-old and 2-yr-old, so school's just for one at this point. We've gotten a committment that they'll pay for the little one if we're still here when he's school ready.

Yes, they are paying for flights home, once a year for the whole family. Rather than flying home though we plan to explore the region; we'll be back home soon enough!

Minnie