Contracting in Dubai

[MrMarkyMark]

Almost went out 5 years ago, however the day rate and allowed expenses were very generous.

The amount on offer made it worth considering.
Gig fell through, got something else.

Tha all having been said I would have also had to learn the art of alcohol distillation

[Big Blue Plymouth]

Anyone done it?

A pimp got in touch with a role with a decent rate, so wondering if anyone has any experience out there?

Worked for National Bank of Dubai for 2 years in the late '90s.

The place has changed beyond recognition since then so what was pertinent then may not be so now but I wouldn't be going anywhere like Saudi / UAE without a decent ex-pat package inclusive of accommodation allowance and residency.

Otherwise you'll end up dossing wherever the client puts you up & if you're a single guy that'll probably be the Golden Sands in Bur Dubai & you'll basically be living out of a suitcase for your stay.

You'll also have to fly out every 3 months to Qatar with all the Russian hookers to renew your visitors permit.

You won't be able to buy booze from supermarkets without residency either! (though there's a "hole in the wall in another Emirate where you can buy liquor but you have to drive back through Sharjah & if you get stopped by plod & get caught with all that booze in your boot it'll be 50 lashes after Friday prayers)

Of course, all that may have changed.....

Is this a long term role i.e. 1 year+?

[northernladyuk]

That said about the heat I'd seriously consider another stint out there. It's a great experience if it's a shortish gig.

Maybe try a permanent job next time.

[northernladuk]

Maybe try a permanent job next time.

And there was me thinking you looked quite fetching in the local garb.

[northernladyuk]

And there was me thinking you looked quite fetching in the local garb.

You're not going to start wearing that belly-dancing outfit again, are you?

[fullyautomatix]

I was there for a few months last year on a project being delivered by a UK company. As far as I know, you cannot contract out there and the UK company had to hire contractors in UK and ship them out there.

I think the market is pretty down at the moment and jobs are scarce. Perm jobs are there to be had, british girls are much in demand for sales jobs and I have seen some paid very handsomely.

There are some strict conditions on the work visa. You cannot leave the country without settling all your liabilities. Your bank account gets frozen the moment your employer terminates your job.

Weather in summer is unbearable. No alcohol sold and you can only drink in bars where a beer cost 50 AED. The lifestyle in the Marina parts is great but if you happen to be stationed in the old dubai ( like I was ) its not so great.

I would say, its a great experience if you go for a year or two. Income is tax free but its very expensive out there.

[VillageContractor]

Thanks for the advice folks - doesn't look like the rate is enough considering the hassle.