Our company are paying shipping otherwise we would just buy out there. Most of what we are bringing is sentimental stuff also - boxes and boxes of books, toys, xmas and hallowe'en deccies, pictures, cds etc. My husband and I had a wrangle over this, he was all for buying out there. I insisted that if we are staying out there 2+ years then I want my things around me. Silly I know but I need some familiarity around me whilst I slowly cook in the dessert sun.
However I will check out the Gulf removal co. if it means we can avoid the delay in Doha. One week does sound very optimistic though.