This week’s Into-yous features British expat Jane Armitage.

Tell us a little about yourself
My name is Jane and I am married to Neil. We have three children, Pru 24, Will 21 and Ed 19. I find life in Dubai so much slower to my life in England and it seems to take so much longer to do anything. I am really enjoying being able to play tennis outdoors for most of the year and I am currently having golf lessons as this is such a great place to play. I really enjoy meeting people from all over the world and learning about them and their cultures. I have also met so many nice people whilst walking my dog, Stanley and dogs are a great icebreaker, a bit like kids!  As an ex-parent of the Sedbergh School (UK), I am promoting the school in Dubai and welcome parents who may have an interest in sending their children to Sedbergh to contact me by email to ask me any questions they may have.

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here?
I moved to Dubai in February 2010 and it was my husband’s job that brought me here. He works for ADCB Bank, based in Karama and Abu Dhabi..

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
Dubai is our first posting overseas.

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai
Say yes to everything and be prepared to go out of your comfort zone, it’s the only way to meet people and have experiences you would never have had.

What surprised you most about Dubai?
The fact that it is such a multinational country, so many different cultures which are fascinating.

What area do you live in?
I live in Arabian Ranches.

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
Jumeriah – right on the beach!

Your favorite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far
Hamdullah – thanks to God

Your least favorite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai
It’s too hot to play tennis/golf!

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
So many, but top of the list must be Paddleboarding around the Burj Al Arab, a nights stay at Bab Al Shams Resort and attending a wedding on the beach.

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
The Maldives – I have a special birthday coming up!

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
There are lots of people I miss, especially my children and my parents but one friend in particular I miss is Gail, we have such good laughs about ridiculous things!

What is your favorite restaurant in Dubai?
The Rib Room

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
Yorkshire Tea Bags

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
Burj Khalifa, The Fountains, Dubai Mall, The Roof Top Bar at The One & Only, sun-downer drinks at Bab Al Shams and Dubai Polo Club.

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The team at Expat Echo Dubai would like to feature you in our Into-yous section

Please complete our 5 minute interview and submit your answers along with a profile picture (in JPEG format).