Decisions - stay or go??

JamesDecisions · #1 (**permalink**) 19th March 2008, 11:50 PM

Hi all,

Im sure this is a common question but I wanted to note my situation and get your thoughts.

I am currently in a sales role in the UK and have recently been offered an opportunity to work in Dubai as a recruitment consultant.

They have offered me £28,000 (in AED 204,000), plus a £1000 relocation. They have also got all the other benefits rtn flights, 40 days hols, healthcare and pay for the 1 year rent that is required which I pay back interest free. They will also give me 1 month serviced accomadation to get me up on my feet.
Also have what seems like a good commission plan (it is a sales role after all).

My questions are:
Is this enough money?
Should I be asking for more money?
Is there an expat community there where I can move or can you do a flat share?
What are peoples general thoughts on a 27 year old male moving out there, will I enjoy it (social life etc!)

Any comments or advice are much appreicated

Thanks

Elphaba · #2 (**permalink**) 20th March 2008, 06:05 AM

My concern is that you will struggle to pay for decent accommodation. AED 17k pm won't go that far, especially when you consider that in most areas a one bed apartment would set you back AED 100k a year. You can get places for less or flat share, but be careful with this as sub-letting is illegal. Companies know what rents are so I suggest you point this out & ask for a higher basic.

As I keep saying where you live depends on where you will be working. Move away from the Marina etc and rents are often cheaper.

You may have seen previous comments regarding commissions - they are often hard to actually get your hands on.

There aren't really expat enclaves, apart from places like The Springs/Meadows etc but these will be way out of your price range anyway. Surely better to experience the real city anyway?

With a little bit of money in your pocket you can have a great social life. Have you read other threads on here? There are loads of bars, pubs, restaurants, sports venues, live music etc...

JamesDecisions · #3 (**permalink**) 25th March 2008, 04:57 PM

thanks Elphaba,

Sorry I took a while to get back.

Your points certainly spurned me on to look at my options. The offer has improved but not enough to make it work for me to move to Dubai!

I have now contacted various other companies and have some interviews lined up, so fingers crossed!

Sorry I ended up adding another thread on here because I couldnt find this one.

Thanks for the advice.