Job Discussion Forums

[Middle_East_Teacher]

Hi Guys,

So, I previously wrote post regarding the security check, but now I'd like to know if anybody is aware as to what happens as soon as you land?

I'm actually a little bit in the dark about everything at the moment.. Here's that I know:

1) I passed the interview
2) I passed the security
3) They've booked my flight
4) It's a new project that is aimed at lower level students up to 16 years old

Apart from this, I truly know nothing. The recruiters have been extremely helpful, but only in the recruitment part of the process.

I've been out of work for a couple of months already, and now running low on funds. I know that I'm not going to be able to sort myself out with an apartment as soon as I land, and I'm hoping that I'll at least be put into a hotel until the first pay check, or maybe they could give an advance.

Also, does anybody have any idea about the curriculum that is being used? The office hours and the teaching hours?

I'm pretty sure that due to the size of the recruitment drive they are more concentrated on that than the actual job itself.

If anybody could shed some light here, I'd be extremely grateful.

Take Care.

[veiledsentiments]

Who is the employer? What city?

Normally one only gets a few days or a week or so in a hotel, but it is really employer dependent.

In the Emirates, one is usually onsite for 7-8 hours.

VS

[RustyShackleford]

I'm in touch with some people going through this process as well but, like yourself, am largely in the dark despite the time. The fact that your flight is already booked puts you well ahead of lots of other people if that makes you feel any better!!

[dragonpiwo]

Well, if you have to pay for your own place up front like us in Abu Dhabi (different job), you're in the doodaa. You might get a serviced apartment for 10k/month. Just go on Dubizzle type whatever region you are going to live in and do the search and then you'll know.

If you think you can pay rent monthly, you're also in for a shock as often it isn't the case. I paid 12 months up front and then all the deopsits and furniture (100K/ $27,000 all-in for a studio). You really want to check your situation out before you set off.

[Middle_East_Teacher]

I've had a look on Dubizzle, and not all apartments are paid yearly. I've been in Saudi for some time, and I can see the similarities. One would assume that you don't just get off the flight and they then leave you on the street? Also, why is everybody saying that it's 10k a month for an apartment? I've seen some great ones that are 30-40k annually.

I'm definitely ahead of most, but I think this is largely due to me handing in my resignation some time ago and therefore can start early on.

It would be great to have some idea of the curriculum at least so that I can begin preparations. I've e-mailed the recruiter with similar questions but haven't received a response yet. I'll be sure to post any information that I receive on the thread.

[nomad soul]

Middle_East_Teacher:

What does your contract state about accommodation? About hours?

You also mentioned this is a new project. Be ready for the possibility of disorganization, extra work hours, crabby colleagues, limited resources, and last minute changes on top of changes.

[Golden Beach]

I got sent a login and password so I can go on some special MOE website and ask them some questions.

I haven't tried it yet but why not try that, assuming the recruiter sent you that stuff.

I'm going to be in Fujairah.... pretty excited. Anyone else going there?

[dragonpiwo]

Fujairah has cheaper accommodation for sure, so that's good. It's also chilled and scenic.

Remember, if you want to sponsor your wife, you need a 'housing contract with 'tawtheek'. Without that she won't get a visa. Same for the serviced apartments. If you don't have a bill, you can't get a visa for the spouse. Also know that if you rent a studio in someone's villa, it's illegal.

[TheEasyLife]

I'm in Fujairah or Dibba too.

I'm still absolutely in the dark about arrival dates, accommodation, the curriculum and which school I'll be teaching at!

Has anybody heard any more details yet? I was told to check dubizzle but there's not much on there.

[nomad soul]

Welcome to the world of ambiguity. You'll likely have to go with the flow if your emails to your contact person have gone unanswered.

Apparently, the first day for teachers and administrative staff for the UAE's 2016-2017 academic year is August 21, 2016. (Source: http://gulfnews.com/guides/family/official-uae-school-calendar-1.1572007.)

[dragonpiwo]

Not a lot in Dibba according to my pal and you'll need a car if there. Nipping into Oman also takes planning and isn't so easy.

[Neilboy]

I am missing the flight booking part but was told by my recruiter that it should be arriving anytime now. Yea, aside of that I'm in the dark as well. I will be at Arja

[TheEasyLife]

Cheers for the information dragonpiwo. Dibba does look like a ghost town!!

Anyway, I have my flight details now. The only concern now is accommodation. I read somewhere that it's commonplace to get a bank loan to cover the years rent. Is this true and has anybody done it?

[veiledsentiments]

[nomad soul]