Abu Dhabi - Post Report Question and Answers
Morale among expats:
Varies widely - some people have been here for decades and love it; others find the combination of social/political restrictions and the climate unbearable. - May 2013
It depends upon the expat. Indian/Pakistani workers put up with very sparse conditions as long as they are being paid. It is only when their wages stop and there is nothing to send home that they grumble. Philipina and Indonesian runaway maids in refuges have understandably fragile morale. Westerners don't, relatively, have anything to complain about... but we do. - Jul 2012
At the embassy, fair to good. It's an individualistic place with little community spirit, but we haven't minded it too much. In general, some people adore the place; others are driven mad by it. It can be hard to see so many grindingly poor people work so hard in what is supposed to be such a rich, glossy place. - Aug 2011
The UAE is about making money; if you're making good money and your kids are in good schools, it's not a bad life until you get fired, jailed or deported for something. Europeans, in particular, thrive on the tax-free salary and low gasoline prices for all. - Jul 2011
Mixed. I love it, but like with many other people, the conspicuous consumption and local arrogance wears me down. Getting out of the Middle East on vacation usually takes care of that. The driving here is APPALLING and traffic accidents are the leading cause of death locally. Expats always complain about the traffic and the blatant flouting of traffic regulations. - Nov 2010
There are those that like it and those that don't. - Jan 2010
Pretty good. It is a place to come make money, so as the market goes... - Aug 2009
