Dubai Forums Dubai Expat Forums Dubai Expat Help Forum

Hi Guys,

I have had a few posts here and getting used to things now Thanks for all the help.

I have the possibility of a position in Dubai or a position in California. I am from the UK. I have visited California many times and know it very well (The Bay area anyway). I have only been to Dubai once and that was 5 years ago.

Are there any members here who have experience of both either from an expat scenario or resident scenario and can offer any comments?

Thanks

Peds

California without a doubt.

The only part of california I don't like is LA (obviously a lot of others like it - no city life). I prefer northern california. Santa Barbara is my favorite city in southern californial. San Diego is great.

Even if the money is less california is better then Dubai, no doubt.

All above has deals with "living" not working. For example, there are people working in Dubai and making a decent living who would not be hired at McDonald's at minimum wage in California. A university degree alone won't get you a job and good salary (In Dubai, probably...).

Are you kidding! take California!

I have been to both places and would take Cali if the choice was made to me.

Don't get me wrong Dubai is real nice and both places have the sun and plenty of nice places to eat - both have beeches (albeit one has a permanent construction drone in the background).

Think - lots of green grass a fresh cali breeze compared to 'my nose is full of building dust'.

It depends a lot on your stage in life. I worked in California a bit in my previous job (San Francisco and San Diego) and although the US wins hands down on beauty, California isn't all it's cracked up to be.

If you're young and single, I'd probably choose the US, you'll be pushed more professionally there but the downside is terrible hours and even worse annual holiday time. The Bay Area offers a lot in social and cultural pursuits, it'll be finding the time to do them that's the issue.

If you're a bit more mature and especially if you have a family, I'd choose Dubai. It's a much better life for everyone here (apart from the summer months!), the work is exciting but without as steep a learning curve and thr hours and holidays much better. It may also sound like a yank-baiting comment, but the people here are much more genuine and friendly too (apart from on the roads), as a foreigner in the US people have a tendency to think you're stupid and boy does it wind you up. It's not nastiness, it's more condescending and they treat you like a kid even when your experience and knowledge greatly outweighs whoever you're speaking to.