Expo 2020 - Expat Network

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Mace and Jacobs appointed to deliver UK Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai

A joint venture of Mace and Jacobs have been appointed as the UK Government’s delivery partner for the UK Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. Expo 2020 Dubai will run for six months from 20 October 2020 and is expected to attract 25 million visitors, with 70% coming from outside the UAE, an unprecedented proportion in...

Salini Impregilo wins $435m Dubai mall contract

Salini Impregilo has signed a $435-million contract with Meydan Group LLC to build the Meydan One Mall in Dubai, UAE. The unique project will be part of the UAE and Dubai’s showcase to visitors in preparation for Expo 2020. The Mall is part of a massive urban development project located between Meydan and Al Khail...

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.