Finances

Prior coming to the UAE, I scoured the internet for any pieces of information about my school and area.  I had discovered a few blogs and threads that stated mixed reviews, however, I never obtained information about the amount of money and expenses that are involved in the first weeks of entry into the country.  As with many expats abroad, one does not discover this, until you live through it.

     As stated per contract, I was to be reimbursed my luggage fees and 100 AED per day for my dinner.  My hotel and breakfast was going to be covered by my school, so I did not need to dip into my funds for this.  What was failed to be mentioned, was that I would need to take a taxi for all of my transportation.  With my hotel being outside the city, the taxi fees were about 60 AED each way.  This can add up quite quickly. 

     Also, a phone needs to be your first purchase (which is another cost).  Without this, you are not able to receive a government ID or bank account.  Everything is linked to your cell phone.  This is much like your social security number, which is a little concerning, being a cell phone number.  I was able to purchase the lowest priced phone at 69 AED.  But, don’t be fooled.  That only buys the phone.  Next, you will need to purchase a sim card (mine came with minutes).  After this 40 AED, you will have a phone number.

     Between the medical fee, 250 AED (will be reimbursed) and the Emirates ID, 300 AED, it did not leave much money for other supplies and food.  I had run into teachers that were barely making ends meet.  They come with little cash, from previous situations and were not expecting to pay all of these fees and cab fares.  I, like them, also believed that we would be reimbursed for the luggage, medical, and food upon presenting the receipt.  This is not the case. 

     We also requested a cash advance per our contract.  After much hesitation and run around, I was told that I could not receive a check, that it needed to be directly transferred into my bank account.  So, I needed to open a bank account.  It was one thing after another.

     I am not worried about being reimbursed, or payed, it is that it takes many weeks to receive anything.  For instance, I have arrived the second week in August and will not get paid until the last week in September.  That is quite a stretch.  Not to mention, I was told this the day before I arrived. 

     When placed in a situation where you are pinching pennies, one does get quite creative.  You learn to take a spare apple from breakfast for lunch.  You learn about free shuttle services from your hotel.  You also learn to love peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.  So, for those of you who are coming to the UAE for employment, I recommend bringing at least $2,000.00-$3,000.00 USD.