It's time to catch up with Dutch expatriates, who tell Cindy Bailey what they like about Dubai and what they miss the most in their new habitat.
Frank Boering
Regional Sales Director, Lamb Weston
I have been living in Dubai for more than 16 years. I like the lifestyle and the weather, although I do miss not having four seasons.
I like the tax-free income the most. I do miss the normality. Food wise, I miss proper Dutch mayonnaise and Kroketten!
Kees Spronsen
Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
I have been living in Dubai for one month. I like living in the Middle East, especially in the UAE. Dubai is a thrilling experience for my wife and me. It's amazing to see what's happening in this booming city.
There are also a lot of Dutch companies settling down in the city, which is encouraging to see. What I miss about home — opera and classical music concerts, and now and then some rain to cool off.
Cynthia David
Manager of Van Bohemen Flowers
I have been in Dubai for almost five years now. I was also fortunate to get married here. One thing I enjoy in Dubai is the privilege of being safe from major crimes, regardless of whether you are out late in the evening hours. In terms of work, I guess just like anyone it is really nice to receive your full salary with no tax being deducted compared to other foreign countries. I definitely miss my family.
Though we make it a point to see each other annually and on important occasions. I miss the physical activities I used to pursue such as playing football, as I have a team back home, which unfortunately I don't have here. As the saying goes, there is no place like home.
Martijn van den Berk
Engineering Manager, Royal Haskoning
I first came to Dubai in October 2003 and my family joined me in January 2004. The nice parts about living in Dubai are obviously the climate, close proximity to the beach and opportunities to escape the busy Dubai lifestyle by driving into the desert, mountains or towards the quiet east coast.
In terms of working, I think for someone with a civil and coastal engineering background, Dubai is the most interesting place in the world with so many large scale construction projects going on. I am very pleased to be a part of this amazing development in Dubai.
I do not miss much from Holland, apart from a little rain (once a month), a bit of greenery (an occasional walk in the woods would be nice) and some of my old friends and relatives.
Jeroen van de Geer
Owner of AA Properties Dubai
I have been living in Dubai for five years. I like Dubai's weather, its excellent services, the high level of safety maintained here, the competitive workforce and of course the tax-free income. I do miss certain things from Holland such as friends, family, particular food items and four seasons.
Peter F.W. Van Rooijen
Managing Director and Owner of Holland Agencies
I have been in Dubai since 1992. I enjoy the climate during the winter. I like the boat rides, desert safaris, Wild Wadi trips and Dubai's multicultural society. There are different fun options that the city has to offer.
Dubai offers a relaxed way of life. And the fact that there is no tax is a lovely concept.
I miss cycling and walking in the forest and being away from old friends can be difficult.
