Importance of expat preparation noted

It is important to carry out research and forward planning before moving to another country, it has been noted.

An article on online resource Shelter Offshore uses the example of moving to Dubai to make its point, noting that women working in the country that wish to sponsor their husbands and children to live with them are subject to a number of restrictions.

"This is only permissible if you're employed in certain professions such as health care or education.

"You have to be earning a high salary and you really must check in advance of taking up a job in Dubai that you will be allowed to sponsor your family," the article notes, explaining that this is not the norm.

As such, it recommends that females considering becoming expatriates ensure they find out whether they will be given permission to allow their families to join them before making firm commitments such as deciding to open and transfer money to an account in the emirate.

Dubai is one of seven Arab emirates, with the others including Abu Dhabi, Umm al-Quwain and Fujairah.