Living in Dubai but working in Abu Dhabi

There is a sort of law passed here that you really shouldn't live in Dubai while on Abu Dhabi's visa. Sort of law means -its not illegal but its frowned upon and can be challenging. Commuting is hell from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and visa-versa. Its dangerous road and people tend to go nuts. Abu Dhabi is the sub-burbs of Dubai, its a good place to raise kids. They wont be as spoiled and be a little more grounded. School wise, Dubai or Abu Dhabi they all suck and expensive and shit. But then again I have an Australian mate and he is paying a lot for a shitty school for his kids but he says its worth it because the education is better here.

Commuting is hell, and it may be difficult for you to find accommodation in Dubai due to you have Abu-Dhabi visa, but should be okay. In terms of schools, Abu Dhabi or Dubai they suck equally. You will waste a lot of money. But then again my Australian mate pays for a school here in Dubai and he says its worth it, however I see it as a waste his child is not developing on the same level. SO in the end its up to you, in Dubai you will have more of a going out social life style, in Abu Dhabi it will be more sub-burbs.

Dear Kippling, Thank you for your reply - I agree I have heard that commuting is hell. I don't really wish to commute 3 hours every day on highly dangerous roads but may have to do so for the sake of my family as I have also heard that quality of life style and schools is better in Dubai. Do you know of any good places to live in Dubai which are closer to the Abu Dhabi highway and may save some of the commute time?

Were will you be working In Abu Dhabi? Is your sponsor providing housing and school allowance.I suggest that if you want to live in Dubai that you find a job there.It is a UAE visa so you should be able to go were you want. from what i see it is also more expensive to live in Dubai. I live in Ruwais,Abu Dhabi

Hi, Romendra, I used to live in Dubai and agree with others recommending against daily commute. You should also consider that placement in many of the schools in Dubai is very tight because of the city's popularity with expats. Since your visa will be with Abu Dhabi, it should be discussed with the schools beforehand whether they will consider your children's applications. It sounds to me you may not have had to chance to visit the schools to speak with admission counselors, take a look properties you may consider, and assess amenities that may be available in the vicinity. If so, you may like to speak with your employer about organizing a look-see trip to give you the peace of mind and to expedite your settling-in. It is also not clear from the discussion what your offer may cover. Since living in the UAE as an expat family could be high compared to Australia (from my experience as Big 4 consultant and Heads of Mobility for Fortune 500 companies), you may like to fully assess the package holistically and ensure the logistics will be well-organized (so that you can quickly focus on work and minimize anxiety with the family). In case you need any professional help, please let me know and you can visit my website at www.contexomobility.com. Best of luck!

Is there a way around the situation so that you can live in Dubai whilst working in Abu Dhabi as I understand that some Abu dhabi companies require proof of address that you live in Abu Dhabi