http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/dubai-property-for-rent-the-search-for-accommodation.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/dubai-property-for-rent-the-search-for-accommodation.html Sun, 23 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600 rent property in Dubai, the government has imposed legislation stipulating that any rent increase shall not exceed 7% of the annual lease price. There are also several new property developments underway that should take some pressure off the market in the near future.

Housing allowances are typically part of the expat package. Although in the past companies would cover the bill for the entire rental amount, the trend now is for expats to be allocated a certain percentage of the total yearly accommodation cost, with the rest being paid for out of their salary. Other fees to bear in mind when renting include a security deposit (refundable at the end of tenancy if the rental is deemed to be in good condition by the landlord), possible car parking fees, monthly utilities, municipality charges (typically 5% of the lease), and a 5% commission fee if the services of a real estate agent are used. Maintenance and repairs of the property are covered by the landlord. Tenants are not allowed to make changes to the structure of the property inside or out without the permission of the landlord.

The lease will often be drawn up between the landlord and the tenant's company / sponsor. If an expat signs the lease himself he must have a residence visa or at least a letter from his employer stating that a visa is in process. The normal duration of a lease is one year. Unlike in many countries where rent is paid on a monthly basis, in Dubai the entire year's rent is paid upfront, most commonly with 2 or 3 checks. For example, in the case of bi-annual payment, the first 6 months of the lease are paid for immediately with a current dated check, while the remainder of the year is paid for with a post-dated check. (Short-term furnished monthly accommodation in Dubai is available but it is often more costly.) It is important to understand that once the lease is signed, the tenant is tied to the contract. In order to terminate the lease the tenant would need permission from the landlord. That being said, the rental laws in Dubai actually favor tenants. Landlords cannot force a renter to leave without a very good reason (such as wanting the property for their own personal use). Even if the lease is only for a year, as long as the tenants do not break any aspects of the contract, the lease is presumed to be renewable. The Municipality has a special section set up, the Dubai Rental Committee, to oversee any disputes between landlords and tenants.

After cost, location is probably the biggest factor in determining where to rent. Dubai is split in two by the Creek with Deira (or "Old Dubai") on one side and "New Dubai" on the other. The decision for where to rent is based on factors including accessibility to work, schools, shops and hospitals. Some of the most popular locations to rent include Garhoud: located near Dubai International Airport and offering low-rise apartments and townhouses at reasonable rents. Mirdiff: a newer development consisting mainly of villas located past the airport. Bur Dubai: located near Bur Juman Shopping Center and offering reasonably priced apartments. Downtown Deira: reasonably priced low-rise apartments are readily available in this neighborhood, although if work or schools are located on the opposite side of the creek the traffic can be a nightmare. Satwa: a nicely located area situated between Sheikh Zayed Road, Bur Dubai and Jumeirah, offering low-rise apartments and reasonably priced villas. It is believed that zoning regulations will change for Satwa in the near future allowing development of high-rise buildings. Jumeirah / Umm Suqueim: ideally situated near the beach, parks, and schools, this is probably the most popular area for the European and Local communities, offering upscale villas and townhouses. New Dubai Developments: including The Greens, Arabian Ranches, The Lakes, The Meadows, Emirates Hills, and Dubai Marina and located near Dubai Internet City. Many offer gated, family friendly communities with access to swimming pools and other recreational amenities.

Those searching for rental property in Dubai can find extensive listings in the local classifieds or direct from property developers such as Arenco Real Estate, Alpha Properties, Better Homes, Cluttons UAE, or Century 21. The search for the perfect place to lease can be time-consuming and may seem overwhelming. Understanding UAE rental laws, using only a reputable real estate agent, and investigating the best possible locations are all part of making the hunt for an apartment or villa in Dubai successful.

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Ahmed Juma is a local UAE businessman who owns and manages several apartments and villas for rent in Dubai. He is also the owner of Emirates-Ads, an internet portal with extensive listings of Dubai property classifieds.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/culture-tips-for-dubai-travelers.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/culture-tips-for-dubai-travelers.html Thu, 13 Sep 2007 00:00:00 -0500 travel to Dubai take a little time to learn about the local customs and culture.

The UAE is a Muslim country. The culture is based on a deeply rooted belief in Islam and centers on the family. Mosques are dotted throughout the landscape of Dubai and five times a day the melodious prayer call or "adhan" will be heard. The official weekend is Friday, although government offices and certain multinational companies are also closed on Saturday. Mosques on Fridays around noon will be overflowing as worshippers gather to listen to a sermon. On Fridays most stores open around 2PM although certain large retail outlets such as Carrefour and most large grocery stores are open as normal. Arabic is the official language; however English is widely spoken by almost everyone and all the street signs are in both English and Arabic.

There is no specific dress code in Dubai, and you will see both ends of the spectrum from women who cover themselves from head to toe to those who choose to barely cover themselves at all. At the beach women are welcome to wear bikinis and men can don swimming shorts. Away from the beach it is more culturally acceptable for men to avoid wearing shorts or going shirtless and for women to avoid mini-skirts, midriff baring tops, and shorts. T-shirts or blouses and mid-length skirts or Capri pants for women are considered quite appropriate. Muslim women from the Gulf States typically dress in a long black robe known as the "abaya". The "abaya" itself is not an Islamic requirement, but rather a cultural custom. Islam requires ladies to cover their heads and to wear long loose clothes covering their arms and legs. Gulf men wear a loose, typically white robe called a "dishdasha" along with a white or red checkered headdress known as the "gutra". The gutra is held in place with a black cord called an "agal".

Arabs are one of the most hospitable people in the world, but visitors still should take note of a few cultural musts when interacting with locals. It is best to ask permission of local women before taking their photograph and most likely you will be told no. Visitors should also be aware that some Muslim women and men will avoid shaking hands with members of the opposite sex as per Islamic tradition. This should not be taken as an offense and it is simply best to wait and see if the other person extends their hand in greeting first. Local men will typically greet other local men by touching noses or kissing cheeks. Public displays of affection between members of the opposite sex are highly frowned upon, although you will see men (typically Asian expats) holding hands with other men when walking. This is a cultural norm and merely an expression of friendship. If you are invited to enjoy a coffee, tea or traditional meal with a local family there are a few guidelines to keep in mind. Before entering a home shoes should be removed. When sitting, take care to avoid pointing the soles of your feet in anyone's direction as this is considered rude in Arab Muslim culture. Food and drink (and there will be a lot of it!) should be taken with one's right hand, as the left hand is reserved for "unclean" practices such as washing after using the bathroom. Your host will most likely keep offering you more and more food and drink. It is acceptable to take a second helping but not necessarily a third or fourth! You will have to be persistent and it might take a bit of polite "back and forth" between you and your host before your host acknowledges that you are actually finished!

During the Holy Month of Ramadan, Muslims and non-Muslims in Dubai are expected (by law) to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public. A bit of discretion and respect for the host culture is really all that is called for. If a visitor accidentally makes a mistake and eats, drinks, or smokes in public, the worst that is likely to happen is that someone will gently remind you of the time of year and ask you to stop. Although most restaurants will be closed during the day (or offering take-away only), many malls now have food outlets that are screened off from the public and open during the day in Ramadan for non-Muslims. It is also perfectly acceptable for non-Muslims to eat and drink in the privacy of their homes or hotel rooms during the day. Most hotel restaurants will remain open (with screened-off areas) for hotel guests and grocery stores also remain open all day long. It is greatly appreciated during Ramadan if women are a bit more conservative in their dress - simply avoiding short skirts or sleeveless tops. All live musical and dance performances are suspended during Ramadan but pubs will open after sunset. Time seems to move a little slower during Ramadan and by law Muslim employees have shortened work days. In general visitors do need to be more culturally sensitive during the Holy Month, but after the breaking of the fast each day the city comes alive and it is an ideal time to visit if you are looking to experience cultural flavor.

While Dubai is most famous for its shopping, visitors should take advantage of their trip to the United Arab Emirates to also learn about the local culture. The Dubai Museum, built in an old traditional fort, is a must-see for all ages and includes exhibits of weapons, national costumes, and displays of the desert as well as the pearl diving industry on which Dubai was originally founded. The Heritage and Diving Village features displays of Dubai's maritime past and includes quaint shops and restaurants. Finally, The Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding offers cultural awareness programs, recruiting young UAE nationals to speak to visitors and residents about Dubai culture and history, as well as offering other activities throughout the year including mosque tours and Arabic classes.

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Ahmed Juma is a local UAE businessman and the owner of Emirates-Ads, a free UAE classifieds site with extensive listings for jobs in Dubai, UAE property and accommodation, vehicles, and items for sale.


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/dubai-property-investing-in-uae-real-estate.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/dubai-property-investing-in-uae-real-estate.html Thu, 26 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500
In March 2006 the Freehold Law was passed allowing foreigners either 99 year leasehold or freehold ownership of land in designated areas. Freehold or leasehold allows the foreign investor many advantages. Owners are able to sell or rent out the property if they so desire. Investment potential is high, with a great demand for short-term rentals and yields around 10 percent. Dubai does not levy taxes on income, including that obtained from renting property. In addition there is no Capital Gains Tax. With Dubai's population expected to double within the next five years causing the rental demand to increase, a property purchased for the purpose of leasing can be seen as a long term income-generating asset. Owners are not required to live in the UAE, but must visit the country briefly once every six months. There are several local and international property management companies, including Colliers International, Cluttons, Asteco, and JG Property Management, who can look after the property when the owners are away. Properties can also be passed on as inheritance if specific procedures are followed. Ownership of freehold property also entitles the first named owner to a 3 year renewable residence visa. (This visa does not permit the holder to take up work in the country.) The most popular Dubai property developments are the Springs, Dubai Marina, Emirates Hills, the Meadows, and Arabian Ranches. Other up and coming areas include Business Bay, the Palms (Palm Jumeirah, Palm Deira, Palm Jebel Ali), and Jumeirah Beach Residence.

Investing in Dubai's dynamic and fast moving market is quite simple. The only paper required is a relatively straightforward sales agreement. If necessary, foreigners can apply for financing. The two main lenders in Dubai, specializing in real estate mortgages, are Tamweel and Amlak. When buying property, it is advisable to use a lawyer and make sure a formal contract is signed, especially if purchasing on the secondary market. It is possible and quite common to purchase directly from the developer (such as Emaar or Nakheel) who may charge a transfer fee of between 1-3%. It is typical to have to provide a down payment, plus installments, with the final installment due upon completion or handover of the property. Upon completion, the property should be registered with the Dubai Lands Department. There is a land registry fee equal to 1.5% of the purchase price of the property. Owners should also expect to pay a yearly property maintenance fee which covers such things as any necessary plumbing or electrical repairs, cleanliness of the site, and security.

Buying a home overseas is a major decision. It is essential to research all aspects of a potential investment and deal only with reputable real estate agents since there is no formal structured purchase process in Dubai. Well-known real estate agents with good reputations in Dubai include Better Homes, GoWealthy, Re-Max, and Landmark Properties. Dubai's property market is likely to continue to flourish for the foreseeable future. Dubai is a thriving international destination offering a high standard of living, a tax-free lifestyle, and a safe and secure cosmopolitan community making it the perfect place to invest.

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Ahmed Juma is a local UAE businessman and the owner of Emirates-Ads Classifieds, an internet portal with extensive listings for Dubai property, jobs, vehicles, and items for sale in the United Arab Emirates.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/dubai-jobs-finding-employment-in-the-uae.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/dubai-jobs-finding-employment-in-the-uae.html Thu, 31 May 2007 00:00:00 -0500
Once a job seeker has secured a position, a contract will be signed and the employer will act as the "sponsor". The contract should include basic salary, job title and description, length of the contract, and termination conditions among other things. It is vital to negotiate a good "package" including salary, housing, and school fees if the employee has children. Other allowances may include coverage for medical, transportation, utilities, and / or annual vacation with an airplane ticket to one's home country. (The law stipulates that companies must provide a vacation / airplane ticket at least every two years). Each company is different and packages will vary. The work week also varies from company to company with some working "straight shift" and some working "split shift" (with a few hours break in the middle of the day).

The sponsor should handle all paperwork required by the government for foreign workers, including getting the employee an employment visa, health card, and labor card. A company's "PRO" (Public Relations Officer) will typically handle the logistics, ensuring all paperwork arrives at the necessary government offices for approval. First an employee's application is approved by the Ministry of Labor, then the employee undergoes a health screening, and finally all relevant documents are transferred to the Ministry of Interior who stamp the residence visa in the employee's passport. Employment visas are valid for a maximum of three years although they are renewable. In general, expatriate workers are not granted UAE citizenship or permanent residency. The Dubai government has taken steps to drive "Emiratization" of the workforce (stipulating that a fixed percentage of workers in certain industries must be UAE nationals and that all companies having 100 or more employees must hire UAE nationals as their PRO and/or Human Relations Manager). However, it is still believed that expatriate employees will make up a major part of the workforce in the UAE for years to come.

For those hoping to find employment in Dubai, there are various avenues to take. There are several recruitment agencies with good reputations available to assist job hunters in their quest for employment, including long-standing companies such as Claredon Parker and Kershaw Leonard. As there are many recruitment agencies in operation, it is always advisable to do some research into their reputation and methods before using their services. Unfortunately it is not an uncommon occurrence for job seekers from poorer nations to drain their entire life savings and go into debt through payment to unscrupulous agents from their home countries who falsely promise visas and jobs. Fortunately, recruitment agencies in the UAE are regulated and must be licensed, so the potential for scams in the UAE itself is greatly reduced.

For those who choose to search online there is also a wealth of options and information available. Some excellent resources include employment sites such as Bayt.com, directories such as GulfJobSites.com, as well as free online UAE Job Classifieds sites such as Emirates-Ads.

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Ahmed Juma is a local UAE businessman and the owner of Emirates-Ads: Dubai and UAE Classifieds, a Dubai-based internet portal with extensive listings for jobs, properties, vehicles, and items for sale in the United Arab Emirates.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>