No spam
Do not post the same promotion again and again, drop a list of links or message the group in bulk. A useful reply is welcome. A pitch with no context is not.
Community
Rules for Moving to Dubai: Start Here
The same standard applies to the Facebook group, the WhatsApp Channel and the monthly meetup.
Quick answer
The Moving to Dubai: Start Here group does not allow spam or cold messages. Only a verified business may post an offer, and only in the weekly thread, with a clear disclosure when they have a stake.
No cold messages
Do not message another member unless they have asked you to. The WhatsApp Channel is one-way. We never message people individually from it, and we never message someone who has not chosen to hear from us.
Offers stay in the weekly thread
Only a verified business may post an offer, and only in the weekly offers thread. Say who you are and what you sell in the first line. Offers outside that thread are removed.
Disclose when you have a stake
If you work for a company, earn a commission or you are posting about your own service, say so in the first line. A recommendation that hides a stake is treated as spam.
Be useful and be kind
Questions about moving, housing, schools and the first year are welcome. Personal attacks are not. We do not discuss politics, rulers or military and security operations.
The weekly rhythm
When the group is open, the week has three threads. Monday is Offer check, for anonymised job offers. Wednesday is Ask a local. Friday is Free this weekend.
Questions about the rules
Can I message other members directly?
Only if they have asked you to. Cold messages are not allowed in the group, and the WhatsApp Channel is never used to message someone one to one.
Can a business post an offer?
A verified business may post an offer in the weekly offers thread only, and the first line must say who they are and what they sell. Offers anywhere else are removed.
Do I have to say if I earn from a recommendation?
Yes. If you work for the company, earn a commission or you are posting about your own service, say so in the first line.
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Reviewed by the DubaiExpatHub editorial team on .Ask Rafi™ a follow-up
Information only
These are house rules for the community, not a legal agreement with a government body. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute professional advice.