Likely moving to Abu Dhabi, UAE. Advice?

[ctrl+alt+del]

I have been offered a tremendous opportunity in Abu Dhabi to implement an electronic health record system. From what I have been told the place is incredibly accommodating, albeit extremely hot. We have boys ages 4 and 2 and I can't help but think this would be a great move for them as well. The finances are not in question as we will be well taken care of. I would have to be there in 3 weeks and I have a life-changing decision to make. I guess I am just looking for people who have been there to get any advice. I appreciate any input as I have never been outside of North America.

Thank you!

 

[l00p]

You have probably found this but in case you have not it may be helpful. It is a couple of years old but I am sure it still applies.
The Link

Just tell people you are Canadian!

 

[THEU]

my father in law lives in Dubai which is a bit less 'traditional' than Abu Dhabi, but you know pretty similar. I will say as far as money goes, just be sure you count added living costs. I don't know if you have to pay a sponser to work there, plus US income taxes, plus rent and higher living expenses, and the inability to build equity in a home... Things like that. It is just a different way of looking at finances, and you seem to say that isn't an issue, but I would double check what you think you might need etc.
I think the area is great. The summers are terrible for a couple of months. I was there last in a May and it was like July here. So the months of June through August are just the ones that are hotter than TX really. But man are they hot. Dubai has a great bit of covered and/or underground parking. These are amenities that you either have to pay for though or are included... Again the little 'costs' can add up over there faster than you think.

 

[ViperHorn]

I have lived in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and Abu Dhabi is the better place to live. The only real issue in Abu Dhabi is the government owned liquor store keeps up with how much liquor you are consuming so if you are having a party you need to plan ahead.

 

[snow leopard27]

Be sure your spouse is 100% on board with it. Remember that while you are working she will be trying to take care of the kids in a foreign country.

 

[THEU]

speaking of kids. There are a variety of world wide schools to put your kids in. My sister in law goes to a French school in Dubai, but my brother in law goes to an American school. They just have done better in vastly different educational systems. You will need to locate a good private school for your kids though. The public schools are just for emirates.