Where should a family with 4 year old live?

[EMMEWYATT]

Hi All,

I am considering taking a position in Dubai/Abu Dhabi and my family will come with me as well. My wife and I have 4.5yr old twins and we are trying to get a handle on the best places to live - we prefer a villa so the kids have some kind of yard. School and community activities are important too. I will most likely commute to Abu Dhabi from Dubai so we probably don't want to be deep in the city I guess. Thanks in advance for any advice.

[marc]

springs will probably be best, depending on your budget??

[EMMEWYATT]

Originally Posted by marc

springs will probably be best, depending on your budget??

How about Arabian Ranches? We are looking at around 220k AED a year.

[marc]

yeah thats nice as well.

[flossie]

Arabian Ranches nicer than the Springs. You may be able to get something in the Meadows for that, which is within the Springs (kind of, hard to explain) but much bigger villas. We're in the Meadows but are probably going to move next year because I can't stand the roadworks or the traffic. After 3 years, it's wearing a bit thin.

Another thing, I'd get onto schools quick smart. Especially as you have two places to find and the lower years are the most subscribed. Good luck.

[marc]

email andrew.leech@smithandken.com - he will tell you everything you need to know about Arabian ranches.

[titirangi]

If you will be working in AD and have an adequate housing allowance (220+) then best to live in AD. More so if you are planning to start mid-late next year as there will be loads of new stock coming on line which should result in improving rent situation.

Lots of folk are attracted by the social life and things to do in Dubai and for them it makes a lot of sense to do the commute. For young family though, you will likely want time with your two stars and spending an extra 2hrs a day on the road will not give you this.

[EMMEWYATT]

Thanks for the thoughts. Any suggestions on where in AD that would be good for the kids/ family? Some have mentioned Khalifa City?

Thanks.

Originally Posted by titirangi

If you will be working in AD and have an adequate housing allowance (220+) then best to live in AD. More so if you are planning to start mid-late next year as there will be loads of new stock coming on line which should result in improving rent situation.

Lots of folk are attracted by the social life and things to do in Dubai and for them it makes a lot of sense to do the commute. For young family though, you will likely want time with your two stars and spending an extra 2hrs a day on the road will not give you this.

[titirangi]

Raha gardens and mangrove village are very popular for families. Khalifa city A or B not so good for families as you will likely feel very isolated (we are currently living there with young family and preparing to move out), no parks, pools or anything really.

[mrbig]

if you have to live in dubai then you might beable to get something in arabian ranches, might. most likely end up in the springs. no way you would find anything priced that low in green community. best bet is go to abu d.