Abu Dhabi anyone?

[BroccoliSpears]

I've been gearing up for our move to Dubai, but dp has just phoned to say he's meeting with the MD this aft to discuss a job in Abu Dhabi instead.

The Abu Dhabi section of Expat Woman doesn't seem to be working.

Can anyone tell me anything? Anyone lived there? Anyone living there? How different would it be to Dubai?

Hi - I haven't lived there but have travelled there a lot (I live in Qatar). Bear in mind that I am not a huge Dubai fan (I find it just too materialistic and busy).

AD has a lot going for it. Its a little more reserved than Dubai but still has the amenities that you get in Dubai. Some stunning buildings and a real investment in culture. Less tourism so you avoid the excesses of behaviour you can get in Dubai. Its a driveable distance between the two cities and I know people who live in Dubai and commute to Abu Dhabi daily, and vice versa. The airport is being upgraded and will be great and Etihad is a far better airline than Emirates these days.

Of the two I'd choose Abu Dhabi myself, but if its lots and lots of nightlife options you're after then Dubai is the place to be.

I think AD is also closer to Al Ain and Oman which are fantastic holiday destinations.

Hope that helps

Hiya
I'm in Dubai.
All I can tell you about AD is that the accomadation levels and schooling at a bit of a crisis level with demand outstripping supply
There's always a way though, just baer this in mind!
Post on EW main board - you'll get loads of advice HTH

Agree with heavy demand on Schools/Housing but lived there for 4 years (left 2006) and loved it.

Sorry posted on your other thread before I saw this more appropriate thread. Agree wholeheartdly with Meowmix that AD is far more cultural, civilised and less fur coat no knickers (like Dubai).

www.expatwomanabudhabi.com was hacked by a virus and they are fixing it at great expense although there is a new site due shortly after the main www.expatwoman,com site relaunches later this month. However do post on EW there is a forum dedicated to Ad to help them through this time, likewise post on the DXB forum and there are plenty of people to help on there as well.