Sputnik

I don't know Mike, you went there with military, right? With mil rules?

I know a few folks who did the T6 (PC9) thing in Saudi, they and families were pretty happy. They lived in their own walled city, inside of which it was basically Europe/America. And the money was pretty amazing. I'm tempted, but wife is a bit too apprehensive.

FlyArmy--I'd find out where you and family would be living, I think that would have the greatest effect on overall happiness. I'm guessing you haven't been able to track down anyone who held the job before?

MikeF16

I did mil to UAE and only have 2nd hand accounts from friends from RSAF. Other than what I'd consider mil rules that I'd have to obey even in the US, I really wasn't under any military specific constraints while I lived in the UAE. My family lived on the island of Abu Dhabi and pretty much lived on the economy like any expat would.

In regard to Saudi (not really applicable to UAE): If after serving for years to preserve American rights and freedoms, you consider being imprisoned in a walled city a good deal then I think it is likely we have very different reasons for having served. Go chase the dollar and good luck is all I can say for those who find this even remotely tempting.

Sputnik

I've spent plenty of times in Middle East, none in UAE and very little in Saudi. I do know folks who did one year tours in Saudi, and none of them found it particularly fun. Again, I'm not talking about going over mil, going over as a civilian is a completely different ball game (from people I've talked to).

I didn't say anything about being imprisoned in a walled city, to me it would be nice to know that when I'm at "home" from work it's in a secure place, and one where my family can live under western rules.

Reasons why you and I served are irrelevant, this is a discussion about civilian employment. Like it or not, I do have to chase the dollar to some point, at a minimum I need to provide food and shelter for my family. I actually do think a high paying job doing something I enjoy that will allow my family to have huge international exposure is something of a good deal. That said, I will pursue US airlines, but I certainly wouldn't think less of anyone who made the decision that a foreign job was the right thing for their family. Nor would I presume to question their reasons for military service.

MikeF16

I never said I'd think less of them or their reasons were better or worse than mine. I said the reasons were different and wished anybody luck who chooses to do this. I know plenty of people who enjoyed the UAE, none who enjoyed Saudi. Given the choice, I would expend all other options before going back.

Sputnik

Cool enough, happy Thanksgiving

Thedude

Out of curiosity, what city is the job in?
I lived in Al Ain for 2 years (east side of UAE) and there isn't a whole lot going on out there and it is mostly locals ..80% locals and 20% expats.
While DXB is 80% expats and 20% locals.

jwlast

I got an offer from UAE last year to be a flight safety officer on contract. Excellent pay (ok awesome pay) and paid business class 2x per year to US. Couldn't get them to throw in a Lamborghini thou. Wife nixed the deal.....