Is this true?

[lulubelle]

Hello Everybody...This is my first post, and I am really confused. I have also been offered a job in Abu Dhabi, and after doing some research and reading the posts and having the last telephonic interview yesterday, the HR guy informed me that the would pay my chosen apartment upfront (annual rent), and that I would have to pay them back on a monthly basis. He also said that I would have to share an apartment if I wanted to keep costs down. I am not against sharing apartments, but definately not without knowing the person I am going to be sharing with. So that would probably only happen at a later stage.

He said that the UAE has become like Europe, where you are responsible for all your own expenses. He also commented that (which I believe are true) that there are more facilities/amenities available than a couple of years ago.

I queried insurance and travel allowances, and he said that I would be responsible for everything. He then asked me what I was thinking would be an appropriate salary. I quickly had to calculate costs in my head and said 45000dhs a month.

My question(s):

1. All of you guys say that the company should give you a housing allowance, if not fully then at least something decent. Is this something that is starting to happen, that they are not giving it anymore? We all read that there is a housing shortage...should I push/negotiate them to include that in my offer?

2. Would 45000dhs be enough in Abu Dhabi? I am single, and would prefer to stay alone...

3. What should a company in the UAE include in their offer? What is mandatory? and what is optional?

I would really appreciate some feedback! I honestly don't feel like being taken for a ride and would then rather wait for another potential opportunity.

Thanks a million!
L

[Elphaba]

What you have been told is correct. Fewer and fewer companies provide large housing allowances or provide accommodation for employees. The UAE is not a 'hardship posting' as pretty much all Western amenities are available.

On a salary of AED 45k pm you should be able to afford your own place. I am in Dubai, not AD, but I doubt you would have a problem finding an apartment for AED 150k pa. Sadly, there are way too many greedy landlords that require rent to be apid annually in advance, so many employers offer interest free loans so that those who don't have the cash don't have to take out a bank loan.

Whether you get a housing allowance or a higher salary is pretty much the same thing. In fact due to end of service gratuities it is often better to have the higher salary.

There are no compulsory items to be included in a contract - except that in AD a company must provide medical insurance. This ruling is not valid in other emirates. It is usual however, to include an annual return flight to a home country.

A salary of AED 45k pm (equivalent to GBP75k pa) compares favourably to the average expat salary, although obviously whether it is good for you depends on your field of expertise and current earnings.

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[lulubelle]

Hi Elphaba...thank you so much for clearing up those questions. I will wait for the offer and see how much they are prepared to offer me.

I have also been pondering living in Dubai and travelling everyday. What does the traffic on the road from Dubai to AD look like? Would it be feasible to travel everyday? What does gas cost in dhs?

Thanks once again...
L

[Elphaba]

I strongly recommend that you don't commute. It is a long, straight & very boring road with its fair share of accidents.

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[lulubelle]

I will take your advice to heart! Thanks!

I think I will just have to hope for the best.

Thanks for all your help.

L

[Elphaba]

Good luck.

I really like AD. It is a little more traditional than Dubai and more low key - Emirates Palace not withstanding! It is easier to get around and there are plenty of places to go out. You can always come to Dubai for more fun on a Friday.

The plans for the development of AD are fantastic. It will have a Louvre and Guggenheim museum and an opera house in amazing buildings.

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[sgilli3]

Originally Posted by Elphaba

Good luck.

I really like AD. It is a little more traditional than Dubai and more low key - Emirates Palace not withstanding! It is easier to get around and there are plenty of places to go out. You can always come to Dubai for more fun on a Friday.

The plans for the development of AD are fantastic. It will have a Louvre and Guggenheim museum and an opera house in amazing buildings.

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Soooo agree with you here! AD is a great place, and there are some great things planned for AD in the future.
If you want a more lively Friday, then sure, trek down to Dubai for the day, otherwise, relax and enjoy everything AD has to offer.

[lulubelle]

Wow! You guys have really lifted my mood. I have been really worried the last 2 days as I have really been looking forward to this for a while and I am ready to head off and experience it all! And it has really helped to hear good/positive comments.

Thanks!!
L

[sgilli3]

Glad to hear !
Enjoy the experience and dont stress.
So glad you are doing your homework 1st, about the move here.
Also, allow time to adjust to life here..the traffic, the red tape etc, but once you understand that you cant change those things, and you get out + about to explore the area, and take time to learn about this wonderful culture, I'm sure you will love it !
Cheers

[lulubelle]

Thanks sgilli3!! Appreciate the help!
L