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Planning the Move

So you're about to make that big move. Over the following weeks, you will have to make the decisions about the following: Finding a home, putting your children in a good school, learning about the public transport, buying a car, opening a banking account, discovering where to shop, etc.

Fortunately, Dubai is a remarkably easy place to get used to. Information is readily available through a phone call or through the Internet. Of course it would be ideal if you got a headstart and begin making arrangements BEFORE you even touch down in Dubai. Which is where we come in. Housing regulations, information on hotels, serviced apartments and international schools, even how to apply for your water, electricity, gas and phone. It’s all here to help get you settled down in your new home as quickly and painlessly as possible.

What's in this section:

Expat Housing - We are here to help you

An overview of housing in Dubai
A comprehensive description of what renting an apartment or house in Dubai is all about. Contributed by a reader who obviously knows what he's talking about.

Prime Apartments and Villas in Town
If you have the means, then you may want to live it up in a swanky apartment or a spacious villa naer or on the beach. We let you in on a few.

Serviced Apartments
Temporary accommodation may be what you require while shopping around for a more permanent address, or maybe your budget allows you to splurge for that little bit more. Either case, you'll find you have a wealth of choices.

Hotels
Some expats find it practical to put up at a hotel first while waiting for their belongings to be shipped over, or for renovations to be completed. Dozens are availble, from 6-star luxury hotels to low-budget guest houses.

Transportation
Getting around in Dubai is a breeze. There are plenty of metered taxis that are well maintained, air-conditioned and driven by courteous English-speaking drivers. Plenty of car rental agencies and limo services are also available. And, here's the info you need to plan on driving in Dubai, once you get here...

Telephone Services
Information about getting a leased land line, as well as cellular phones and pagers.

Education
Finding the right school for your children will be a priority for you as well. You'll have several international and language-specific schools to choose from, as well as specialised places like art schools and computer centres.

Just for the Kids
Your children will have specific needs, especially if they are of pre-school age - Nurseries, creches, play centres and kindergartens may each be of use to you.

Employing House Help
You will find that hiring a maid in Dubai is very affordable, and to many - especially working parents - very necessary.

Living Costs
A common concern among expatriates relocating here. Dubai has a reputation for being expensive, perhaps rightly so when it comes to cars and property. We tell you more, down to the cost of basic goods and services.



PROPERTIES
CHANGING THE FACE OF DUBAI

 
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