What do I do?

Thanks for all your replies. I think Doha is great and I also think we will give it a go..........

Loobylou;

To be fair, you haven't given much of your 'background' so any comments are bound to be fairly general.

Expats live all over the world, and every place has its pros and cons. To be fair, I think most would agree that Qatar doesn't have many pros. BUT - if the job/money is good then this might compensate for a lack of symphony orchestras, ballet, acid parties whatever your interest is. To be fair, there's nothing 'bad' about Qatar either.

The comment about salaries is valid. Notwithstanding 'passport differences' two people with similar backgrounds doing similar jobs could be on vastly different salaries. Although this is true throughout the GCC countries, it is particularly true for less 'exposed' markests like Oman, Yemen and Qatar. You might well find that your husband's salary/allowances can be negotiated upwards considerably;

Qatar Petroleum employees often get a 'reasonable' salary, but with housing, education + two cars thrown in to the package!! (this is the exception here though, not the rule)

As you're probably aware, the education in Qatar is probably one of the best (quality/$) in the region and is certainly ok up to 16 years old, maybe up to pre-university, depending on areas of study.

The biggest 'challenege' in Qatar is things to do ... it is rumoured that "push the shopping cart" is going to be a demonstration sport at the Asian Olympics next year.

Your social outlook will be the biggest deciding factor on whether or not you can be happy in Doha - although even if the job/life is terrible the bump in the bank balance at the end of a month can be sufficient reward for some ....

What are your priorities, expectations and aspirations for a 'place to live'?

Do not be afraid to follow your dream...If you do not like living in your country and want to try, than you have to do all you can...in other case one day you will sigh and regret...Go on...

I say go for it Loobylou!! I'm in the middle of a move to Doha too and my main reason is to give my kids a better standard of life. What does the UK have to offer ? I personally can't wait to arrive and get into a new lifestyle. Good Luck with the decision!!

Skyblue

Didnt find your comment of very much use and to be pretty frank with you found your last comment to be quite patronising.

I can see why moving from the UK to Qatar could be any 14 years old nightmare...

I suggest you give it a shot, though, he might enjoy life here. If it doesn't work out for him, perhaps he could move back to Uk and live with his grand parents?

Surely salary is very job dependant? Who have you spoken to? Examples of 300% difference in salary are common here. Sounds far fetched or indeed ridiculous....no. This is Qatar. It requires a certain suspension of disbelief.

Teenager also? Detail is what is required. By definition a "teen" of 13 will expect or want very different things than a 19 year old.

If you would care for advice that would be of help then do not couch your enquiries in such vagaries.

Hello Loobylou,

Why do you believe that it is not the ideal place to bring your teenage son? What is the ideal place? Does one exist?

The remuneration package offered to your husband depends upon his expectations; obviously, if you had a good package at home you would not be looking at coming to the Middle East!

There will always be people earning more money, likewise there will also be people earning less.

The range of private schools is very good, offering both the American and English curriculums. It is certainly a far safer environment than that of the USA or UK.

Regards,