psyguy
Teacher28 wanted information about living in Abu Dhabi. I gave him information, not comments on his choice.

Driving - some countries have closed boarders where you can't cross. UAE has a wide range of terrain to visit across the Emirates. Mountains to beaches to the Empty Quarter.
Oman - great country to visit with very friendly people. Lots to do - explore wadis, drive the coast, snorkel/dive in Muscat, etc.
Clubs - just putting it out there so that he is aware of some things that are available.
Cultural excursions- just because you are teaching in a foreign country does not mean you are part of the experience. UAE provides groups that will take day or weekend trips to visit forts, date farms, bull pushing, etc. Local families are welcoming and will invite you to their celebrations or to visit their farms.
Beaches - UAE provides a wide range of beaches from Jumeirah to Dibba.
Travel hub- UAE offers many travel choices that a western expat may not have experienced before. Lots of places to visit within a four hour flight.

Living the expat life in the UAE can be very easy. You have the ability to drive across the country and to Oman. Lots of expat groups offer cultural excursions, or you can just spend the weekend at the beach. You can join sports clubs (rugby is great!), or take in the theater. Yes, shopping is plentiful - but you have so many more options. You can live cheaply or expensively - depends if you spend your weekends at brunch and shopping at Spinneys or eating locally and visit the souk for your produce. Your ability to travel is expanded with Abu Dhabi and Dubai being the hub to so many other places.

Thanks for all the feedback. My last school provided Aetna insurance with full coverage in the states; I guess I was just spoiled and forgot that isn't the way it works generally. Thanks for the suggestion of an insurance stipend.

I am looking at returning to the international school circuit while my family remains in the States. Does anyone have experience with schools providing insurance to your family if they are not residing with you? I had been limiting myself to schools which offered worldwide insurance but am now realizing that even if they offer worldwide, my family may not be covered.

AIS has a solid IB program and north American teachers. AUS is new American school with a population that is over 40% non-Kuwaiti/international, including embassy families. All American teachers.

In response to schools for your children to attend - American International, American University, and Universal American