Possible move to Dubai, possibly quite soon. Anyone out there with good advice on areas for families, schools, life in general?

[Desertrunner]

DP (about to be DH) is in final stages of interview for a senior role in Dubai. Assuming he gets it, I believe I will be a quick turnaround so potentially we would be over there in July. Therefore I have been researching schools, areas etc and so far potentially can get the kids into Repton, with a view to living at Arabian Ranches or Villa Project. Anyone done this, and can give some advice? I know schooling can be a huge issue (with 3 kids this is my primary concern). Have been on expat woman etc and opinions seem to vary wildly so am looking for UK based ladies views if anyone can comment? Thanks

Hi all. We too are looking to move (but Spring 2015). Marking place...
Schools seem a minefield. I've got three aged 5, 4 and 22 months. Victory Heights Primary my first choice at the mo...

Hi Buffers
Loads of great info on here re schooling etc.
do you have job offer sorted or are you in the process like us?

Job offer sorted. Just negotiating start dates. DH will move first then I will move next summer probably so looking at schooling for Sep 15.
I'm nervous about schooling but also thinking positively. Might see you out there :)

That's good. Can I ask how long your job offer process took?
I'm sure that the victory heights school is good - lots of good feedback that I have read anyway.
Would be happy to catch up with you if we actually get over there! Good luck with your planning.

The job has been created for my DH specifically so it's not the normal route (not v helpful, sorry). I've got an unexpected day at home tomorrow so will be sorting out paperwork for applications. First off I need to order a replacement birth certificate for myself!

I got married last week and couldn't find my birth cert when we went to book it (too many house moves!) so got a replacement sent out next day delivery for about 20 pounds.
Your DH job sounds good. Do you know yet where you would like to live, in relation to his work and the schools? When my DH was in Dubai for his interviews they drove him around Arabian ranches etc to give him a feel for areas not too far from work.

Got my eye on Victory Heights - right side of town for DH and it's dog friendly (planning on bringing our two spaniels with us). Also near a golf course where I hope to spend some time as haven't played properly since having the children and it's the one thing I want to get back in to. Also a good way of meeting people and making friends on my own terms.

Victory Heights is lovely. DS best friend lives out there, but it is a bit of a way out. Property is increasingly expensive out there (although I guess that depends on your budget and allowances). In fact DS best friend is moving from there this summer after 3 years, as the cost, which used to be reasonable, plus the distance is making it a bit more of a hassle than it was before. Lovely lovely house though.
Plenty of golf courses and loads of women play golf, beginners and experts and plenty in between.
Just a heads up for everyone on this thread looking for property to buy or rent dubizzle is good for giving you an indication of price however it isnt the be all and end all cost wise or for availability. Additionally NEVER EVER trust the photo to be even representative, never mind actually, of the villa/apartment you think you would like to view.
Congrats on the wedding and dont forget to get the documents attested. Now is better because it is expensive and a faff when you get here.

Thanks Isthiscorrect for the Congrats and the good advice! Had a look on Dubizzle and did seem to see the same interiors for villas coming several times so guessed they were stock photos? Some look really lovely tho

Baby barrister that's as helpful as a chocolate fire guard!

Ok, fair point and good for you - however, I think practical living advice would be better so with your legal head on, what do you think are the best parts of being there :-)

Hi Babybarrister
Thanks for your input - I have done research and taken legal advice and if we go am aware the laws are different in the Middle East. It doesn't cause me enough concern to make me reconsider our move, particularly as I have just got married and plan to be with him for the rest of my life.
But thank you - I understand you must have a dim view if you have to deal with people who have run into trouble.

Has your DH heard anything about the job OP?

I know people have said it's fairly normal for job offers to take a while but I'd be very nervous about the whole thing if they expect you to up sticks and leave when they click their fingers when they actually had the option of making a decision earlier and giving you time to get sorted.

Hi Bear
We will know by the end of this week apparently and I do agree with what you say. Will wait and see the outcome and update once we know for sure. Other things also in the pipeline.....

That's good and very intriguing!

Hi desert! We're in the first few days of Ramadan and things are in a bit of a go slow, it's to be expected so don't be too despondent. It is also totally normal for businesses to ' click their fingers' and get you out here. Thinking of you.

Hi Kelly
Thanks, that's really kind. Will post an update as and when we know what we are doing.... Hopefully this week as promised but I have heard Ramadan does affect things and not to expect too much!

Any news, OP?

Still don't know! Sorry haven't been back, been getting on with life and put Dubai to the back of my mind. We should know for sure about one job by end of July. Promise I will update when we get our decision!

Hi Desertrunner. Feel your pain. My DH had final interviews last week for job in Abu Dhabi. I've done all research, looked at jobs market, applied to schools. So I'm all set. Just need the job now . I reckoned on it all being time well spent on research as we'll keep looking at other roles there and plan to be the in the short to medium term. Good luck and fingers crossed.

Thanks Bluemoon. Sounds like we are in a similar boat! I really hope all goes well for you guys. Abu Dhabi sounds lovely from what I've heard. Frustrating isn't it, this whole waiting game! Good luck and update me if and when you know. Fingers crossed x