Life in Middle East
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Life in Middle East
Hi there, thinking about a contract position in M.E
Just wondering about a few lifestyle questions.
What would the cost of living equate to for normal everyday items food/toiletries/etc.
Do most spouses go along and just live, or is it possible for them to gain employment?
Would they be able to work on my visa, or would they have to get sponsored on their own?
What would be the chance on getting on with an airline, as she has lots of expierence as a CSR with various airlines and computer reservation systems, and even aiport operations(gating etc.)??
Are airline ground staff in the ME require to speak the local language?
What about bringing our dog over, anyone any experience with that???
How are expats treated in the ME now post war??(By the way I'm not American)
Are things realively back to normal??
Thanks for taking the time to read this and respond.
Just wondering about a few lifestyle questions.
What would the cost of living equate to for normal everyday items food/toiletries/etc.
Do most spouses go along and just live, or is it possible for them to gain employment?
Would they be able to work on my visa, or would they have to get sponsored on their own?
What would be the chance on getting on with an airline, as she has lots of expierence as a CSR with various airlines and computer reservation systems, and even aiport operations(gating etc.)??
Are airline ground staff in the ME require to speak the local language?
What about bringing our dog over, anyone any experience with that???
How are expats treated in the ME now post war??(By the way I'm not American)
Are things realively back to normal??
Thanks for taking the time to read this and respond.
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Not very safe these days
You may not have enough time to identify your self as none American citizen. All Caucasians are subject to the following risk factors.
http://travel.state.gov/meu_announce.html
http://travel.state.gov/wwc1.html
SAFETY AND SECURITY: Americans in the United Arab Emirates should exercise a high level of security awareness. The Department of State remains concerned about the possibility of terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world. Americans should maintain a low profile, vary routes and times for all required travel, and treat mail and packages from unfamiliar sources with caution. In addition, U.S. citizens are urged to avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects, and to report the presence of the objects to local authorities. Vehicles should not be left unattended, if at all possible, and should be kept locked at all times. U.S. Government personnel overseas have been advised to take the same precautions. In addition, U.S. Government facilities may temporarily close or suspend public services from time to time as necessary to review their security posture and ensure its adequacy.
Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in problems with authorities.
Canadians should evaluate carefully the implications for their security and safety before deciding to travel to Kuwait. Random attacks targeted at western interests, together with heightened tensions throughout the region, put Canadians at greater risk. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice. Exercise extreme caution in large gatherings and crowded places, including pedestrian promenades, shopping malls, open markets, and restaurants. Canadians should monitor local developments and register and remain in regular contact with the Canadian Embassy in Kuwait City (see below) or the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (call collect 613-996-8885).
AREAS OF BCISTABILITY: Travel to and near the Iraq-Kuwait border is very hazardous. U.S. citizens having legitimate work-related business near the border may receive updated information from the U.S. Embassy and may also wish to consult their employer's security personnel. Unexploded bombs, mines, booby traps, and other items remain present in some areas in Kuwait. U.S. Embassy personnel are advised to use caution if traveling off paved surfaces outside Kuwait City.
SAFETY AND SECURITY: Americans in Kuwait should exercise a high level of security awareness. The Department of State remains concerned about the possibility of further terrorist actions against U.S. citizens and interests abroad, specifically in the Middle-East, including the Persian Gulf and Arabian Peninsula. Recent terrorist attacks have included an attack on U.S. forces in Kuwait that killed a Marine. Americans should maintain a low profile, vary routes and times for all required travel to the extent possible, and treat mail and packages from unfamiliar sources with suspicion. U.S. citizens are also urged to avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects and to report the presence of such objects to local authorities. The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait urges all Americans to be wary of unexpected visitors and to pay particular attention to suspicious vehicles. Any suspicious activities or vehicles should be reported immediately to the Embassy's Regional Security Office. American citizens are advised to avoid apartment complexes where Americans or other Westerners are generally known to live or visit in large numbers. Americans should also increase their security awareness at other public places where Americans or other Westerners are known to congregate or visit in large numbers, avoid them, or switch to other locations. Americans living in or visiting Kuwait should read the current Public Announcement -- Middle East and North Africa Update and the current Public Announcement -- Worldwide Caution. Americans resident in or visiting Kuwait should also check the Department of State web page http://travel.state.gov for updated travel warnings and Consular Information Sheets.
http://travel.state.gov/meu_announce.html
http://travel.state.gov/wwc1.html
SAFETY AND SECURITY: Americans in the United Arab Emirates should exercise a high level of security awareness. The Department of State remains concerned about the possibility of terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world. Americans should maintain a low profile, vary routes and times for all required travel, and treat mail and packages from unfamiliar sources with caution. In addition, U.S. citizens are urged to avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects, and to report the presence of the objects to local authorities. Vehicles should not be left unattended, if at all possible, and should be kept locked at all times. U.S. Government personnel overseas have been advised to take the same precautions. In addition, U.S. Government facilities may temporarily close or suspend public services from time to time as necessary to review their security posture and ensure its adequacy.
Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in problems with authorities.
Canadians should evaluate carefully the implications for their security and safety before deciding to travel to Kuwait. Random attacks targeted at western interests, together with heightened tensions throughout the region, put Canadians at greater risk. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice. Exercise extreme caution in large gatherings and crowded places, including pedestrian promenades, shopping malls, open markets, and restaurants. Canadians should monitor local developments and register and remain in regular contact with the Canadian Embassy in Kuwait City (see below) or the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (call collect 613-996-8885).
AREAS OF BCISTABILITY: Travel to and near the Iraq-Kuwait border is very hazardous. U.S. citizens having legitimate work-related business near the border may receive updated information from the U.S. Embassy and may also wish to consult their employer's security personnel. Unexploded bombs, mines, booby traps, and other items remain present in some areas in Kuwait. U.S. Embassy personnel are advised to use caution if traveling off paved surfaces outside Kuwait City.
SAFETY AND SECURITY: Americans in Kuwait should exercise a high level of security awareness. The Department of State remains concerned about the possibility of further terrorist actions against U.S. citizens and interests abroad, specifically in the Middle-East, including the Persian Gulf and Arabian Peninsula. Recent terrorist attacks have included an attack on U.S. forces in Kuwait that killed a Marine. Americans should maintain a low profile, vary routes and times for all required travel to the extent possible, and treat mail and packages from unfamiliar sources with suspicion. U.S. citizens are also urged to avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects and to report the presence of such objects to local authorities. The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait urges all Americans to be wary of unexpected visitors and to pay particular attention to suspicious vehicles. Any suspicious activities or vehicles should be reported immediately to the Embassy's Regional Security Office. American citizens are advised to avoid apartment complexes where Americans or other Westerners are generally known to live or visit in large numbers. Americans should also increase their security awareness at other public places where Americans or other Westerners are known to congregate or visit in large numbers, avoid them, or switch to other locations. Americans living in or visiting Kuwait should read the current Public Announcement -- Middle East and North Africa Update and the current Public Announcement -- Worldwide Caution. Americans resident in or visiting Kuwait should also check the Department of State web page http://travel.state.gov for updated travel warnings and Consular Information Sheets.
shiessh
whoaoaaa boy -slow down.....
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loopy
You ok there Whoahh !!
Just behave yourself in the Mid east like you really should do wherever you are on this planet and you will enjoy yourself
Everything is possible and available in the M.E. except for authentic Booze in Kuwait and Saudi and Pork products in short enough supply in a few places but available in others
West Africa in my opinion is far more dangerous a spot then the M.E.
and i've been in both mind you a mere 22 years in the M.E.
S.L.
You ok there Whoahh !!
Just behave yourself in the Mid east like you really should do wherever you are on this planet and you will enjoy yourself
Everything is possible and available in the M.E. except for authentic Booze in Kuwait and Saudi and Pork products in short enough supply in a few places but available in others
West Africa in my opinion is far more dangerous a spot then the M.E.
and i've been in both mind you a mere 22 years in the M.E.
S.L.
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DDDOF,
You really have to be more specific about what part of the Middle East you are talking about, its a pretty big place that also has attitudes which are around 600 years apart.
Mutt.
You really have to be more specific about what part of the Middle East you are talking about, its a pretty big place that also has attitudes which are around 600 years apart.
Mutt.
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read Gulf, Emirates or Qatar
DDDOF,
if you are 76 typed you had better consider Abu Dhabi also, as all GF's 76's are being relocated there.
Theres plenty on this forum already about Abu Dhabi from the guys directly involved in the shift.
Likewise DXB/DOH - Just do a search on Emirates or Qatar, should keep you reading for a while.
DDDOF,
if you are 76 typed you had better consider Abu Dhabi also, as all GF's 76's are being relocated there.
Theres plenty on this forum already about Abu Dhabi from the guys directly involved in the shift.
Likewise DXB/DOH - Just do a search on Emirates or Qatar, should keep you reading for a while.
Sims Fly Virtually
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AUH, DXB, DOH, BAH - all paradise to us who reside in DAM, RUH or JED
As was said above - 600 years difference in attitude
As was said above - 600 years difference in attitude
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I'll put forth a challenge to all north americans, and eurobrats...I will cash my paycheck and wander 'bout Bahrain 0200 or so pissed with my wallet hanging out of my pocket...you doubters try that in any major american city, london, or elsewhere in the western world...i promise i have a much better chance of making it home intact than you do....yes there is crime..as anywhere, but it is MUCH safer here than anywhere I have ever lived...until you drive on the roads...thats another matter
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Ironbutt57,
I think you are still living in the past.
I considered moving to the Middle East thirteen years ago, because of the low Taxes, everything paid for ,plenty of places in the Schools for the Kids, good Accomodation etc etc. The opportunity to work for a company that appreciated the Pilots and looked after them.
This is now proved beyond a doubt to be a total fantasy. How many Pilots and their families are now scared sh**less, wondering if the next bus driver or taxi driver or the person sitting next to them is about to blow themselves to pieces?
As I and anyone else who has ever considered a move to the ME will now know, the World is a now a completely different place. I actually almost made the mistake of moving there about 12 months ago.
Lucky for me I was rejected!
I am now crying tears of joy
Thank You Tim!
I think you are still living in the past.
I considered moving to the Middle East thirteen years ago, because of the low Taxes, everything paid for ,plenty of places in the Schools for the Kids, good Accomodation etc etc. The opportunity to work for a company that appreciated the Pilots and looked after them.
This is now proved beyond a doubt to be a total fantasy. How many Pilots and their families are now scared sh**less, wondering if the next bus driver or taxi driver or the person sitting next to them is about to blow themselves to pieces?
As I and anyone else who has ever considered a move to the ME will now know, the World is a now a completely different place. I actually almost made the mistake of moving there about 12 months ago.
Lucky for me I was rejected!
I am now crying tears of joy
Thank You Tim!
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Capt Zoolander i have you at a slight disadvantage as i did move to the ME 12 years ago....... I totally agree with Ironbutt57.
Things have certainly changed, my compound is now protected by armed military, but in general i feel a lot safer wandering the streets here than in the UK.
Mutt.
Things have certainly changed, my compound is now protected by armed military, but in general i feel a lot safer wandering the streets here than in the UK.
Mutt.
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I've lived in the ME for 14 years.
It's still the only place in the world where you can entrust the parking of your car to some random window-washer, then return 4 hours later with your car unlocked and the keys in the ignition.
Capt_Zoolander, can you tell us how many instances of suicide bombings have taken place in Bahrain, Dubai or Doha recently?
It's still the only place in the world where you can entrust the parking of your car to some random window-washer, then return 4 hours later with your car unlocked and the keys in the ignition.
Capt_Zoolander, can you tell us how many instances of suicide bombings have taken place in Bahrain, Dubai or Doha recently?
Aluminum Tubing Inspector
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Just like to echo the sentiments of Mutt, Ironbutt and BAH Lad:
I first moved to the Gulf/ Mideast in 1987 and have lived in JED, BEY, DOH and DXB and have never felt safer.
I still continue to have dealings with the Gulf region and personally I would much rather live there than the UK.
Sure, there is heightened security, but have a look at the US and indeed other countries.
Capt. Zoolander...too bad...you missed the boat mate!
I first moved to the Gulf/ Mideast in 1987 and have lived in JED, BEY, DOH and DXB and have never felt safer.
I still continue to have dealings with the Gulf region and personally I would much rather live there than the UK.
Sure, there is heightened security, but have a look at the US and indeed other countries.
Capt. Zoolander...too bad...you missed the boat mate!
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I knew I would get a few reponses, like this
"Capt. Zoolander...too bad...you missed the boat mate!"
I am very happy to have missed the boat!
Since "missing the boat", my house in OZ has increased in value by $120,000 due to the real estate mini boom we have had over the last 18 months. If I had been lucky enough to "catch the boat", I would have sold my house 18 months ago and missed out on this tax free capital gain.
I wonder how much I would have "put in the bank" over the last 18 months. (after making allowances for the high cost of living in the ME)
I don't think it would have been very much, if anything at all.
Anyway, I don't see what this has to do with whether or not, a move to the ME is a good idea. The World is now a different place to 14 years ago. If you are single and have no ties, I would recommend "Go for it". If you are married with a family I would seriously look at all other alternatives before making the move.
"Capt. Zoolander...too bad...you missed the boat mate!"
I am very happy to have missed the boat!
Since "missing the boat", my house in OZ has increased in value by $120,000 due to the real estate mini boom we have had over the last 18 months. If I had been lucky enough to "catch the boat", I would have sold my house 18 months ago and missed out on this tax free capital gain.
I wonder how much I would have "put in the bank" over the last 18 months. (after making allowances for the high cost of living in the ME)
I don't think it would have been very much, if anything at all.
Anyway, I don't see what this has to do with whether or not, a move to the ME is a good idea. The World is now a different place to 14 years ago. If you are single and have no ties, I would recommend "Go for it". If you are married with a family I would seriously look at all other alternatives before making the move.
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Capt Zoolander....
I'm not a pilot, but I have lived in the ME for the past 6 years.
I can only echo what all the others have said. It's a great place to live, really good for the kids, much safer than being in a big city at home I can assure you.
I live in Muscat, which is a full order of magnitude better than those other places
but to think that you have won the lotto for missing out seems odd to me.
BTW I didn't sell either of my houses in Oz, they also went up astronomically..and i put a bucket load of tax free dollars in the bank...go figure.
I'm not a pilot, but I have lived in the ME for the past 6 years.
I can only echo what all the others have said. It's a great place to live, really good for the kids, much safer than being in a big city at home I can assure you.
I live in Muscat, which is a full order of magnitude better than those other places
but to think that you have won the lotto for missing out seems odd to me.BTW I didn't sell either of my houses in Oz, they also went up astronomically..and i put a bucket load of tax free dollars in the bank...go figure.
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i have to disagree with zoolander as well. i kept both my houses in the uk when i left 3 years ago, both rented i have never had to pay the mortgage. i leave my car running with the ac on while i shop for groceries, and have a maid and a gardener.
to anyone thinking of coming out here you should. the weather is perfect, its much safer than the west for crime and such like, and i a very glad about moving here.
to anyone thinking of coming out here you should. the weather is perfect, its much safer than the west for crime and such like, and i a very glad about moving here.
Last edited by ia1166; 11th Jun 2003 at 02:21.
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Ramboflyer 1 said,
"cPT zoolander,
Well what are you doing now are you a happy S/O in Qantas never to be a Captain again or are you at home waiting for a dream job..............."
Well, well, well,
We really are getting personal now aren't we?
DDDOF asked a simple question,
Hi there, thinking about a contract position in M.E
Just wondering about a few lifestyle questions.
Loopy said,
You may not have enough time to identify your self as none American citizen. All Caucasians are subject to the following risk factors.
http://travel.state.gov/meu_announce.html
http://travel.state.gov/wwc1.html
Somehow we have reached this slanging match that I don't intend to participate in any further. As I said, I was rejected, but I am happy with the way things have worked out, particularly considering the problems in the M.E. at the moment
Everyone has choices in life and different paths to follow, I am enjoying my life, please enjoy yours.
Cheers,
Zoolander
"cPT zoolander,
Well what are you doing now are you a happy S/O in Qantas never to be a Captain again or are you at home waiting for a dream job..............."
Well, well, well,
We really are getting personal now aren't we?
DDDOF asked a simple question,
Hi there, thinking about a contract position in M.E
Just wondering about a few lifestyle questions.
Loopy said,
You may not have enough time to identify your self as none American citizen. All Caucasians are subject to the following risk factors.
http://travel.state.gov/meu_announce.html
http://travel.state.gov/wwc1.html
Somehow we have reached this slanging match that I don't intend to participate in any further. As I said, I was rejected, but I am happy with the way things have worked out, particularly considering the problems in the M.E. at the moment
Everyone has choices in life and different paths to follow, I am enjoying my life, please enjoy yours.
Cheers,
Zoolander
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Capt (not) Z is trying to convince himself that he did the right thing in staying in Oz. Say it often enough and YOU might come to believe it, 'Z'.
I very much doubt that very many of your ex-colleagues who succeeded in going to EK will.
I very much doubt that very many of your ex-colleagues who succeeded in going to EK will.