Thank you for all of your responses so far folks. I should have said that I have visited the country and spent some time in the city and I loved it! But all of that time was spent with my husband so I've never been anywhere in the city alone. 

My husband works long hours so from 7am - 6pm every weekday so for the majority of my time I will be alone hence the title.

I'd certainly look into jobs once I'm out there but whether firefighting is a viable option or not I'm unsure. I enjoy learning new languages so plan to continue with the Arabic perhaps with a view to becoming a translator further down the line. 

I'm very open minded so would happily join a women's group to meet people but babies, maids and Prada aren't really for me. I'm still young (late 20's) and I'm very active so ideally I'd like to meet people who can accompany me to the gym/beach/pool. When I was last in
Doha (beginning of June) my husband and I spent a lot of time wakeboarding at the Katara which is something I'd love to do more of. Colt45 - Maybe we can adopt you if you can drive a speedboat?? ;)

If we do move it won't be until next year, 2013 but I thought I'd start my research early so I have a better idea of what to expect. Thanks again!