Job Discussion Forums

[Arab Strap]

Thanx to all again.........

HCT however seem to have stalled but I have had a sniff from another employer in Al Ain (rather not say who as I am quite settled and don't want to start the rumour mill at my current abode)........these walls have ears..........I'm just looking to the future.

Negociations have upped the anti to just over 10,000. Looks like I would have 60,000 to play with in terms of accommo.

Won't need a taxi since I have a car.

Is it still possible to nip over to Oman for the weekly shop or is the border closed. That said is it worth the saving for the hassle involved? I always thought the Omani cost of living was on par with the UK.

Are there still people living in Oman and working in Al-Ain or is that no longer an option (is it really that much cheaper?)

How much to you think it would cost to (modestly furnish) a place in Al-Ain? I would have 20,000 to play with (relocation) but I'd like to save from this.

[Iamherebecause]

The border isn't closed but the easiest way in is closed to non GCC residents. So Caucasian and Asian expats (anyone who can't pass for a GCC resident!) have to go in via Hili and pay to go into Oman every time - 20dhs. Queues depend on time of day.
There are enough places for your weekly shop in Al Ain without going through the hassle of crossing the border for that though it's still worth going across for leisure/pinics/hiking etc.
If you look for sales and second hand stuff and argue for discounts in shops then you can probably get the basics for the money you have for furniture. Home Centre and Homes r Us give discounts to staff of some employers - small electrical goods stores give discounts - but obviously no discount in Carrefour.
Biggest pain in terms of furnishing is that places come with totally bare windows - this can cost in terms of time and money.

[Alecca]

I'm glad you brought that up....if we wanted to bring curtains with us, how much do window sizes differ...as greatly in the US/wherever else? I guess it's not really something we can plan on before hand is it?

[stoth1972]

Alecca:

I would caution you against bringing curtains and the like. There are cheap textiles and tailors to have curtains custom made, and on the ready made side, there is Ikea, Home Centre, etc. In a flat you'll likely have some sort of sliding door to the balcony so want curtains for that. My windows there were always high off the floor-conventional colonial style windows were not common.

[Alecca]

Thanks, I'll just budget for it.