Mike
@Sandman6
English expat in Nigeria
Forum posts
1863
Contacts
150
About me
English
Lives in Lagos
Speaks English, conversational French, Pigdin
Registration: 17 May 2009
New members of the Nigeria forum, introduce yourself here 聳 2nd quarter of 2015 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Nigeria forum? Don聮t know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
My 4th time around in Nigeria in 18 years. There's even a new bridge between Lekki and Ikoyi. And a good new bar called Shades on VI (next to the Indonesian embassy) that makes excellent suya. Read More
Applying for a SA work permit at SAHC in UK by Sandman6
I have to return to the UK soon to make my work permit application at the South African High Commission in London. How many days does this normally take?
I'm applying on an Intra-company transfer and was hoping that it would be approved a lot quicker than 30 days. The French guy who sits opposite me also came in on an intra-company last month and his WP took just 5 working days at the SA Embassy in ... Read More
Applying for a SA work permit at SAHC in UK
I have to return to the UK soon to make my work permit application at the South African High Commission in London. How many days does this normally take? Read More
shipping company from the UAE (RAK) to South Africa
I'm just in the process of moving from Abu Dhabi to Joburg. My employer is using AGS for the move Read More
Smoking in Dubai?
Public buildings are generally no-smoking inside (although some of the mall restaurants and coffee shops have smoking sections). It's permitted to smoke in the street. No smoking in public ANYWHERE (even in your car) during Ramadan daylight ... Read More
Visa for house help/nanny
I have an opportunity to relocate with my work to South Africa. I am a single parent and if possible, would like to bring my Sri Lankan house help/nanny to assist with my young daughter. Can anyone advise the procedure and requirements to obtain a ... Read More
African food - Dortmund / Ruhr area
I have an African friend who is moving to Dortmund as a student in September. She is asking is there anywhere in this area - markets, supermarkets or anywhere else which retails fresh African food ingredients? Thanks Read More
Got a offer in Platinum group by srinivasj
Hi, i got a offer in Platinum group. how is the company? Lagos is the location company provided, accomodation,transportation. local salary 1 00 000 Naira is it good enough for living with family (2+2) what is the annula leave policy in that ...
Why don't you ask them the questions yourself? Read More
Citizenship
A non-Nigerian needs to show a continious period of 15 years residency. Alternatively, a dash of $10,000 will get you a passport immediately. Read More
Going to Dubai Next Week! Looking for Good Friends! by philano79
Hi Everybody, I am a Jordanian multinational man (34 years). I will have a business/leisure trip to Dubai next week (5 days). I would love to meet new friends and have good times and fun there. If there is anybody interested, please send me a ...
He's after a shag. Sad bloke Read More
that nigerian girl by tintin226
Hi everyone, I'm new here and I just like making friends. I'm nigerian and I live in lagos and basically have a deep knowledge of the people and the environs. If you have any questions or feel you are about to be ripped of (which is practically the ...
Keep well clear...she wan chop oyibo moni! Read More
Safe To Travel to Nigerian Cities - Port Harcourt,Lagos, Kano, Katsina by omarsiddiqui
My name is Omar and I'm travelling to Nigeria and I need your advice in this regard. I'm visiting Lagos, Port Harcourt, Uyo, Kano and Katsina. How safe are these cities to travel ? I'm travelling alone. Although the locals will pick me up at Port ...
Do not travel to any of the northern states or cities if you are a westerner, or dress like a westerner. Boko Haram have declared open season on westerners and you will present an easy target to these idiots. Stay well clear. Read More
Wife and daughter to follow....
It's not a difficult process. Your company PRO can do most of the legwork for you....filling in the forms etc. You will need to provide them with health insurance cover, your wife will need to have the ministry medical, once you have all the ... Read More
I can't send private messages anymore by Guestuser452
Hi there.I've been away for a while just got back in here today and I can't send private messages anymore. Was told to introduce myself at the forum before I could send private messages.I have done that but I still can't send messages to friends. ...
Get your post count up.... 10? innit? Read More
affordable health supplements & TCM in dubai? where can u find these?
If you're ever close to Abu Dhabi, there's a good store which sells organic foods and supplements in Masdar City (next to AD international airport). My wife (who is in remission from gastric cancer) imports most of the herbs she needs from ... Read More
Appliances
Best selection in AD is at AD Co-operative society, at Mina Port Read More
is nigeria visa free to turks
Nonsense It costs $32. Bottom of this page: Nigeria Immigration Service Read More
pregnancy and best maternity hospital in lagos by mari70
Hi! I am going to move to Lagos very soon I am pregnant and worried which is the best maternity hospital? thank you!
Not at all...hope all goes well for you! Read More
pregnancy and best maternity hospital in lagos by mari70
Hi! I am going to move to Lagos very soon I am pregnant and worried which is the best maternity hospital? thank you!
Not at all. I don't remember the name of the doctor who made the delivery, but he was extremely professional throughout. I'd suggest that the best thing to do (to put your mind at ease) would be to pay them a visit yourself. Read More
pregnancy and best maternity hospital in lagos by mari70
Hi! I am going to move to Lagos very soon I am pregnant and worried which is the best maternity hospital? thank you!
My wife did her pre/post natal and birth at George's Memorial Medical Centre, which is located in the Lekki Phase 1 estate, just off Admiralty Way. She had a straightforward, conventional birth, no complications other than an 11 hour labour. The ... Read More
Kennels for Dogs
I'm not sure if they are still even there now, but try Kuti's on Elsi Femi Pearce on VI. Read More
EXPAT BLOG CINEMA CLUB by pabbm
Hi All, Up until recently we had all been meeting up on a regular basis for a dinner, maybe a movie, and some other random activities, as part of the 大咖福利影院 Meet-up Group: /forum/viewtopic.php?id=104022 I would like to say ...
The organizer went back to live in India. Dead post, or organize something yourself Read More
Private Investigators by ruby7
Strange question, but does anyone know of any Private Investigators in Abu Dhabi?
Her last post 27/03. Looks like she has the old man by the meat and two veg. Read More
Skype banned in AD? by chickenPOX
Is it true that Skype is banned in AD? I have been trying to look this up and some said there is something that we can download for this. I would like to have your guys opinion based on your experience please. What would be the best solution? Thank ...
You need to buy a VPN before you arrive. Witopia ticks the boxes for me. Read More
Moving to Nigeria by weetoonewan
Hi all I have just been offered a job with Sermatech Nigeria in Cross River State. Can anyone give me some details on the accommodation in the area some photos would be great. Is anyone else in that area? Ewan
I imagine that you'll be accommodated in a secure compound. As others have said, Calabar is comparatively safe as Nigeria goes. Read More
Moving to Nigeria by weetoonewan
Hi all I have just been offered a job with Sermatech Nigeria in Cross River State. Can anyone give me some details on the accommodation in the area some photos would be great. Is anyone else in that area? Ewan
You must be daft....advertising your location as a white expat in Nigeria. Keep in the background and don't make yourself a target. Read More
looking for 2 bedroom apartment through the landlord directly
Dubizzle.com is your friend Read More
Looking for assistance from Port Harcourt, Nigeria by coirpet
Dear Sir.Madama, My name is Murali and i am from Kerala working here in Abu Dhabi. I got an offer from Drillog Petro dynamics Limited as senior accountant. the selection was through a questionnaire, telephonic interview. Noe the company is asking ...
PDL is a genuine company and the contact has a profile on Linkedin with PDL Read More
Private Investigators by ruby7
Strange question, but does anyone know of any Private Investigators in Abu Dhabi?
Found a couple of pairs of Filli stilettos at the foot of the marital bed? ;) Read More
Rent in Abu Dhabi by bbuggeln
Hello - I'm considering taking a 6-12 month position in Abu Dhabi and I want to be sure that the allowance I'm being offered will cover my expenses. How much should I budget for a 2 bedroom apartment or villa in a family friendly community? It'll ...
Have a look here for property prices: DUBIZZLE IS YOUR FRIEND The closest residential areas to Al Maryah are Tourist Club Area or Al-Reem Island. TCA is better if your wife will be using taxis. Hiring a car will set you back between 2-3,000 Dibs ... Read More
Possible move to Enugu by TSL
Hi all, I am considering a move to Enugu for work. I am British and have worked before in Egypt, can anyone advise on what Enugu is like. How safe it is, what there is to do, can you move round the city ok etc etc. I am over 50 and will be living ...
My wife is from Enugu and I've visited many times. As Madison tells, it's a bit of a dusty, sleepy, provincial city with not much to do in your free time. On the plus side, it's a lot safer (in terms of security) than Lagos. Read More
How to find a job in Dubai? by Julien
Hi there, Dubai is one of the most developped cosmopolitan in the middle east, isn't it? How did you get there? Have you been detached by your company or have you moved then you've found a job there? What's the best way to find a job in Dubai? Is ...
Hi Elizabeth off-topic....I enjoyed Seme New Beach :) Read More
employment package negotiations TOTALLY LOST
Where are you planning on living? A good apartment downtown (near the Cornishe say) will rush you over 100,000 Dhs, further out of town (Khalifa City, Al-Reef) will be much cheaper. Try the property section at Dubizzle.com Flights are easy to ... Read More
Guide to Salaries by fsgiggs09
Is AED 18,000 per month enough in Abu Dhabi? Please let me know.
If you start high, and they start low. you can meet somewhere in between. Read More
Guide to Salaries by fsgiggs09
Is AED 18,000 per month enough in Abu Dhabi? Please let me know.
Double everything and you'll be about right. Read More
British curriculum schools in Istanbul
Looking at the possibility of moving to Istanbul with our 5yr old daughter who is currently in FS2. I've seen the website for BIS in Etiler... Any recommendations or links for other good British schools around that area? Ta. Read More
seeking advises
Khalidiya is the nearest residential area to MM Read More
Good Pediatrician
Try SKMC It's a government hospital but they are good at what they do Read More
about job in dubai like manager casino?
Yes there are casinos here. You should do some homework before asking such questions. Read More
Single mum looking to transfer
You'll be fine. AD immigration tend to be a bit more strict but I doubt they'll have any reason to refuse your application. Read More
Irish new to Dubai - Burjaman area by Helen_Donegal
Hey everyone! I've just moved over here and trying to make new friends, wondering if there's anyone nearby for meet-up's; coffee/drinks/dinner/exercise/new activities etc.! I'm 24, very easy going, chatty and outdoorsy! Don't take life too ...
I imagine you've had plenty of attention from the "Raybans, too much hair gel & aftershave and pointy-toed shoes" brigade Read More
Schools in Bahrain
Try reposting this in the Bahrain section. St Christopher's has a good reputation Read More
Teaching ESL
In Abu Dhabi, approval has to be granted by ADEC and unlikely to be approved without a teaching certificate. Read More
I need some serious recruiters agency!
Check the "Job Sites" sticky near the top of the post listings Read More
may I use european driver license in Uae? by GuestPoster75
Hi everyone! I have a question about my drive license Can I use my european driver licence here without doing nothing else (courses, exams,change it, pay something ) or no? and, if I must do something else which are the things who can let me to ...
You can apply for your driving license transfer just using the ID receipt letter. You don't physically need the card itself. Read More
Need a Real Helping hand than Prying Lips
http://i1341.photobucket.com/albums/o759/Shakey500/failed_zps6d40e6a0.png Read More
Brighton College Truth
Brighton College in Abu Dhabi is a franchise. They are in business to make money first and provide education as a secondary. But so are all of the other British/International schools... Read More
a twisted new expat from the Philippines :D by asgayasthesunshines
hi! I am karen. my closest friends call me deng. I have been here in Abu dhabi for just 2 months now and have not yet completely adjusted with the way of living and, culture. But hey, am getting there. Hopefully, through this site, I would be able ...
Hey Karen Come and rock. The louder you scream the faster we go... Read More
Any new Expat. would like to be introduced to U.A.E Culture?
But there isn't any culture in the UAE Read More
Visa App
Rubbish... If he has a UK passport then he can do a visa run to Oman each time for a renewal. Read More
Help on working in Abu Dhabi and cost of living by bevporter
Hi I am away for an interview for ADNOC as a cost engineer..their package is as follows should i be successful. 6500 USD per month plus chance of overtime Housing and utility cost paid by company Medical Insurance paid by company Schooling paid by ...
Beware... ADNOC have a hire-and-fire culture. If you don't fit in, then you're a** is grass and you're out. Unless you've worked here before, just make sure that you understand what you're letting yourself in for! The salary by the way, is ... Read More
Any English nannies out there?
English, or English speaking? For the former, I doubt very much...because The latter are here in their millions and will work for a fraction of their price. Good ones can be found, but buyer beware. Read More
write your this moment ..... by aman ali
am opening a topic where people can write anything and comment on the moment ...just say from heart ..if u wann to say i hate the world just do it ...and vice verse ...dont even think a second ..just write ...then your feelings wil be posted ..just ...
i feel to go out and scream ...............You like too many dots.......... Read More
Brighton College
It's a franchise. Not attached or affiliated in any other way to the UK establishment of the same name. High fees, unsubstantiated achievements. Read More
Belvedere British School, and Cambridge High School Abu Dhabi, MBZ by uz2020
Hi all, New to this forum hope you people will give me some feedback. My husband has been offered a job in AD and we are hoping to move soon from Manchester, UK. We have two children seven and four, does anyone have any info on Belvedere or ...
Sorry...........Sas al NakhlThat place will cook your brains....44Kv on wires above your head Read More
visa
thanks,my name is fatou secka,am from the gambia west africa....yes i want to come to the united Arab emirates but i dont even know were to start,all the people i have ask,they always tell me its difficult get in there.You can get a visa when you ... Read More
Belvedere British School, and Cambridge High School Abu Dhabi, MBZ by uz2020
Hi all, New to this forum hope you people will give me some feedback. My husband has been offered a job in AD and we are hoping to move soon from Manchester, UK. We have two children seven and four, does anyone have any info on Belvedere or ...
MBZ.... The Lulu supermarket at Mazyad Mall is a jewel in a sea of mediocrity. The India Palace restaurant in the same place serves excellent food. Get a whole cinema to yourself and watch the latest flick at Dalma Mall (just across the ... Read More
Salary question
Not much. There are many from the subcontinent who'll undercut you by a long way. Read More
Cycling Abu Dhabi
The best bike shop is in Dubai - Wolfi's, on SZR close to Times Square mall. The only decent bike shop in AD closed down a few months ago. Read More
Visa application for UAE from UK by Sandman6
For those nationalities who are in the UK and who require a visitor visa to enter the UAE, there is only one method of application: [u]Do not[/u] apply at the UAE embassy in London, or through Etihad or Emirates airlines. The UAE embassy only ...
APPLYING FOR A UK VISA FROM THE UAE Read More
Flying with emirates
You'll only get into the lounges with the right card... Read More
Furnitures made in Dubai by VinZe
Hello everyone, New expat in Dubai, I'd like to make some furniture in Dubai for my flat. Do you have any tips please ?
Thanks for your answers. I'd like to have custom furnitures.... Does Ikea offer this service ?No they don't.... But you can customize it. Here's my bar made from converted Ikea shelf ... Read More
Few tips on my arrival
- My fiancee, a Mauritian citizen, lives already in place. Can I stay with her despite the fact that we are not married yet? You can do whatever you like, just don't get caught in public. Thousands of people here cohabit. - After 30 days, is ... Read More
Furnitures made in Dubai by VinZe
Hello everyone, New expat in Dubai, I'd like to make some furniture in Dubai for my flat. Do you have any tips please ?
I'd like to make some furniture in Dubai for my flat. Do you have any tips please ?Try Ikea... Read More
How to sponsor for a Vietnamese maid by henryvu
Hi, I would like to bring my existing Vietnamese maid to Abu Dhabi. However, looking at this link dubaitransitvisa.com/visa_maid_uae.html, it is said that the maid must be a national of one of these countries: Bangladesh, Ethiopia, India, ...
It's almost impossible to sponsor a maid of the same nationality as the sponsor. The locals think that you're bringing in the family... Read More
is a married muslim man can married again in other country? by ayshamuhammad04
my bestfriend fiance is a muslim from india,and my bestfriend is also a converted muslim..her fiance is already married in india..and they are planning to get married in abu dhabi where they are staying now..is it possible that her fiance can marry ...
It's called bigamy and it's lllegal Read More
need advice on car rental
Take your finger for some exercise on the keypad of your phone... Read More
Nigerians in Abu Dhabi by Fran18
Ok so I am new to the city and miss my Whiz Kid songs and all the Elegushi hang outs. Home made poundo and better egusi to let it slide through easily. Most of all I miss the company with 9ja friends. So who else is in the same boat with me??
Opposite Abu Dhabi mall...Beach Rotana Read More
What is love??? by alazzeh
Love Is聟 Free. Love comes when it wants to. Nothing and nobody on this planet can make anyone fall in love with us. Love cannot be bought or sold. It聮s free. Self Love. The only way we can be ready to receive love is when there's an adequate amount ...
Mr Lydon's alternative view on the matter.... Johnny Rotten quote :lol: Read More
Car service
Hi, My friend told me you can do service from outside as it is very cheap around 150 dirhams but you will lose warranty.The 5K service interval on your car is an oil & filter change only. You can get this done at most ADNOC stations. They will even ... Read More
abu dhabi
abu dhabi weather going to be cold..now the temperature is less43 deg C.....cold? :lol::lol::lol: Read More
anyone working in saipem / SBM
Take your mouse for some exercise, there's plenty of information on Saipem and SBM. .....If you can be bothered. Read More
Traffic fine
Click here: Abu Dhabi Police traffic fines Enter the license and vehicle details and then keep your fingers crossed. You MUST enter the correct details otherwise it could give a false negative. lol...I just had a look and it cost me 600 Dibs ... Read More
Hi - pretty urgent request - info! by Nadiadee
Hi, I am in a hurry as I need to get to the company, ... I would like to know, given that my accomodation is paid for, and have a monthly reimbourse for the bus to go to work, would 2,000 or 2,200 euros per month be sufficient to live in ...
If the guy is wearing too much aftershave, too much hair gel and wearing pointy toed shoes....beware Read More
Brittish girls wanting to meet up with other brit girls!
Good luck.... I imagine you've already been inundated with offers. Read More
Residence/working visa
Normally up to 60 yrs....but the rules are made to be changed Read More
"Shared Bathroom"
It means that the bathroom is shared with the occupants of other rooms. Lovely. Read More
Interracial relationships - sweetest taboo? by Nim0
I am in an interracial relationhsip and I think its the sweetest taboo! ...What's your personal experience on DO's and NO-NO's? Mine: Do: Respect each other's traditions/culture (though some can be extremely bizzare) Dont: NO SUPRISES! Prepare ...
I am in an interracial relationhsip and I think its the sweetest taboo! ...What's your personal experience on DO's and NO-NO's? or better still, "What's YOUR sweetest taboo?" ;)Whatever gives you the impression that mixing the races is taboo? This ... Read More
Need help from someone living in Abu Dhabi. by exre
Hello everyone, I am still living in Chicago, but plan on moving to Abu Dhabi soon. I discovered it is very hard to find a hotel that allows pets in Abu Dhabi. I finally found 2 hotels (out of 104) that allows a pet, but I have no way to confirm ...
First hotel never heared of it or seen it, the second one is a bit far from Abu dhabi like 40 mnts drive !!It's on the border between Dubai and Abu Dhabi Emirates. 45-60 mins from downtown Abu Dhabi. Read More
Cost of Visa extension. by tripleA
Hello all, I'm new to abu dhabi and recently migrated here in 22nd July with my husband and son. I already have my resident but not yet receive my labor contract. My husband and son is currently on their visit visa that obtained during arrival at ...
Unless something has changed recently, Canadians need visas before arrival and therefore can't do visa runs. Check with your embassy.We do need Visa's.. I've had mine for a few weeks now, but I wasn't sure about how it works once my Visa expires in ... Read More
What is the most unusual thing you have taken in suitcase abroad by haggishunter
The first time i went to Pakistan to visit i have took.... 1 computer 1 printer and extra ink. Surround sound system. Then last year i went back to visit i took.... 2 remote controlled helicopter toys 2 remote controlled all terrain jeep ...
A 6" polycrystalline diamond drill bit from London to Lagos... Read More
Cost of Visa extension. by tripleA
Hello all, I'm new to abu dhabi and recently migrated here in 22nd July with my husband and son. I already have my resident but not yet receive my labor contract. My husband and son is currently on their visit visa that obtained during arrival at ...
Unless something has changed recently, Canadians need visas before arrival and therefore can't do visa runs. Check with your embassy. Read More
Anyone can tell me which city is nearby Ruwais? by exre
Anyone can tell me, which city is nearby Ruwais? What distance and about the town?
When you are rue to people you should expect to be treat you just like that. Please I am trying to find info. and you are not helpful. I do not deal with people when they are not polite to others. Please do not respond to my post. Thanks and have ... Read More
Anyone can tell me which city is nearby Ruwais? by exre
Anyone can tell me, which city is nearby Ruwais? What distance and about the town?
Hi sandman 6, Do you know where they located in desert? Like how far from some city you know - this way only I can picture it Thanks,23掳36'47.37"N 53掳43'17.98"E Read More
Anyone can tell me which city is nearby Ruwais? by exre
Anyone can tell me, which city is nearby Ruwais? What distance and about the town?
I can't find Zayed city on the map.You won't.....it's still a building site in the middle of the desert! Read More
help me please right information about ban on bangladweshi visa
I heard some body told me U.A.E not give visa Bangladeshi people? it's right or wrong?Is there something wrong with my English? Read More
help me please right information about ban on bangladweshi visa
There is no such ban in effect. Read More
how to get tourist visa of australia in dubai by sherryooo
i want to traver to australia by myself .but i dont know that how to apply for visa in dubai from embassy of australia .i am chinese .so hope people will guide me and tell me that whats information i need prepare to be ...
[Moderated: manage your language pls] Read More
how to get tourist visa of australia in dubai by sherryooo
i want to traver to australia by myself .but i dont know that how to apply for visa in dubai from embassy of australia .i am chinese .so hope people will guide me and tell me that whats information i need prepare to be ...
i want to traver to australia by myself .but i dont know that how to apply for visa in dubai from embassy of australia .i am chinese .so hope people will guide me and tell me that whats information i need prepare to be ... Read More
how long will this ban on African visas take ? by mahi 23
hi, i am a tanzanian citizen, aged 23 years and with the dream of coming to dubai, i have worked hard on for this for the past one year. after receiving a job acceptance i came to dubai last month on a visit visa with the knowledge my employment ...
There isn't any ban on Africans! If you're flying Emirates you can get the visa from them, or use one of the reputable travel agencies. Google it and pick any on the first page. Read More
Dubai and lifestyle /etc by Nadiadee
Hi, considering about moving to Dubai and was wondering if there are activities for expats beside drinking and clubs because although I am not a muslim I do not drink ... Also, is it easy to meet a partner or are men just there for the fun, in ...
if I live there, to have an Emirati man, no less ;-)I'm sure there'll be plenty of them around on a Thursday night, up for jumping your bones :lol: Read More
Driving test by nonipk
Hi, I want a little clarification regarding rules for turning in round abouts. If you are in the last lane on the right and entered the round about and now you have to turn left. Can we turn left if we are in the last lane towards right or we ...
Use correct lane discipline, like the man says: right hand lane is for turning right and going straight ahead. middle lane is for going straight and turning left. left hand lane is for turning left and doing a u turn. Read More
Driving test by nonipk
Hi, I want a little clarification regarding rules for turning in round abouts. If you are in the last lane on the right and entered the round about and now you have to turn left. Can we turn left if we are in the last lane towards right or we ...
if the appraoch to the roundabout has 3 lanes then: right hand lane is for turning right and going straight ahead. middle lane is for going straight and turning left. left hand lane is for turning left and doing a u turn.Except at Iftar when it's a ... Read More