Working in Abu Dhabi / Qatar (Doha)

[Ivan1178]

Been recently offered a position to work there; but have some burning questions about working there which I hope anyone around here can help out:-

1) What are the living standards there? How much is the average rental for a decent apartment?

2) I would want to bring my wife-to-be along with me. Are there anyway to bring her along although we haven't officially married yet? Understand that the normal visa is for a month only.

3) We would also very much want to bring our pet dogs along there as well. Anyone has any idea whether there's any restriction on bringing pets into these countries?

Any form of info would help a great deal. Thanks!

[pkingsly]

Abu Dhabi is the capital of United Arab Emirates where as Doha is the capital of Qatar....a different country. I live and owrk in ABu Dhabi so can answer your query related to ABu Dhabi.


1) What are the living standards there? How much is the average rental for a decent apartment?

Quality of life here is quite good, and cost of living is pretty high. THe average rental for a decent 3 bed appartment in a good area will be upwards of AED 140000 per year. This normally has to be paid as one cheque when signing the agreement. Most employers advance the money subject to your cost to the company.

2) I would want to bring my wife-to-be along with me. Are there anyway to bring her along although we haven't officially married yet? Understand that the normal visa is for a month only.

Most European nationals get a visa on arrival for a month. DO note, it is not legal to coexist of not married. THis is an islamic country and the law is quite strict.

3) We would also very much want to bring our pet dogs along there as well. Anyone has any idea whether there's any restriction on bringing pets into these countries?

One can bring pets in with proper documents. As far as i know there are no restricitions except for exotic animals or dangerous animals.

Any form of info would help a great deal. Thanks!