Menu
Expat.com

School Principal in Al Ain

Last activity 31 March 2015 by dnjsmom88

Post new topic

dnjsmom88

Hi...I'm Kym and I just accepted an offer to be the new lower school principal at a private school in Al Ain for the next 3 years.  Long before I applied I did my research so I think I know about the basics but I would like some insider tips.  My position will include furnished housing, utilities, internet, transportation in and out of the country, medical insurance, and a car.  They plan to fly me over in a few weeks to meet me face to face.

I'm curious about a few things and the information I found is hit and miss:

How is the quality of the medical care? Is it easy to obtain?  Do I need to get an extended period of prescription medications filled before I leave?
Is it easy to find foods typical to the US?  I plan to cook for myself mostly and while I'm adventurous I also have some food sensitivities.
How easy is it to travel around the region on the weekends? Is it expensive? Is it safe to travel to other countries in the region?
Are there opportunities for socializing in the area?  I'm not a club person...I'm a 44 year old empty-nester...but I want to make some friends.
How much stuff do people typically bring when they move?  Is it mostly clothing?  Should I bring an extended supply of hygiene/toiletry items or can you get American brands?
(High Maintenance question) I use Clinique exclusively on my face...can I buy that there?  Are the prices similar to the US? or should I stock up on that and bring it with me?

Thanks!

Kym

AgusDragon85

Hi Kim
How is the quality of the medical care? The quility is good, Is it easy to obtain? Easy. Do I need to get an extended period of prescription medications filled before I leave? No need
Is it easy to find foods typical to the US? Yes, you can find in any restourant.   I plan to cook for myself mostly and while I'm adventurous I also have some food sensitivities.
How easy is it to travel around the region on the weekends? Yes Easy. Is it expensive? Average...Is it safe to travel to other countries in the region? Yes.
Are there opportunities for socializing in the area?  Sure. I'm not a club person...I'm a 44 year old empty-nester...but I want to make some friends.
How much stuff do people typically bring when they move?  Is it mostly clothing? Enough. Should I bring an extended supply of hygiene/toiletry items or can you get American brands?no need.
(High Maintenance question) I use Clinique exclusively on my face...can I buy that there?  Yes. Are the prices similar to the US? Cheaper. or should I stock up on that and bring it with me? No need.

dnjsmom88

Thank you!!

Articles to help you in your expat project in Al Ain

  • Working in Al Ain
    Working in Al Ain

    Located in the eastern region of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain is the fourth biggest city in the United Arab Emirates. It has ...

  • Accommodation in Abu Dhabi
    Accommodation in Abu Dhabi

    Accommodation is your next step after securing a visa to fully settle into your new life as an expat in Abu Dhabi. ...

  • Working in Abu Dhabi
    Working in Abu Dhabi

    Abu Dhabi has joined its neighbor emirate of Dubai in being a hotspot for tourists and expats moving for work ...

  • Accommodation in Ras Al-Khaimah
    Accommodation in Ras Al-Khaimah

    Located in the North of the United Arab Emirates, Ras Al Khaimah is an emirate that has its own unique charm. ...

  • Buying property in Abu Dhabi
    Buying property in Abu Dhabi

    The United Arab Emirates has 9.06 million expats, and most of them spend about 30 to 50 years in the country ...

  • Accommodation in Dubai
    Accommodation in Dubai

    One of the first things you will need to settle when relocating to Dubai is accommodation. If you are relocating ...

  • Driving in the United Arab Emirates
    Driving in the United Arab Emirates

    Driving is the most popular way of getting around in the UAE — especially in big emirates like Dubai and Abu ...

  • Getting married in the United Arab Emirates
    Getting married in the United Arab Emirates

    If you dream of getting married in the United Arab Emirates, Expat.com provides practical information that you ...

All of Al Ain's guide articles