I've lived in the Middle East on and off over the years. Last time was for a year and half and I just got back in 2006. I love being overseas and traveling, but his time around I'd had enough. The traffic in Dubai and the local attitude will take allot of adjustment, and even then they take their toll. If you are single, it is not a bad place to be. If you're family has a pioneer or adventurous attitude, you might survive 3-4 years. Most are ready to pack it up after the one year mark. The housing is great, the restaurants are amazing, but after awhile, it wears people down. You won't know what I'm talking about until you've been there. Personally, I loved it.. but in smaller doses. A year or two at a time. Everyone is different. Go look for yourself.