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Keren Bobker

@financialuae.bsky.social
73 followers 93 following 74 posts

Qualified experienced Independent Financial Adviser, Dubai. Professional, ethical, nice. Columnist in The National. Proper advice + humour. Typos my own. Keen on coffee, cats & The Archers. www.financialuae.com

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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 06/03/2026
The amount of utter rubbish posted about Dubai, the UAE, is ridiculous. People with some weird, twisted obsession about this place. No we aren’t all trying to flee. No we aren’t paid to be positive. No we don’t all drive around in gold Bugattis with pet tigers.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 21/11/2025
A useful reminder as we approach the festive season
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 03/11/2025
Latest column in @TheNationalNews with lots of useful info. 3 reader Q&As answered Take a look as you may need the info one day. #UAE #KSA www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
‘Will a bounced cheque affect my UAE credit score?’ | The National
Decision will depend on the reason for rejection
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 28/07/2025
Good morning! My latest column in The National, the UAE's best English-language newspaper. This week's Q&As: 1. Never employ domestic stafff on their own visa 2. How to work as a private tutor in the UAE 3. Validity of Saudi driving licences www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
‘Can I employ a domestic help who has her own UAE visa?’ | The National
Domestic workers must be employed through an agency or be sponsored as a direct employee
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 14/07/2025
My latest column in The National Newspaper - UAE Useful information so please have a read. This week's Q&As: 1. Headline query about a police case 2. Can extra clauses be added to a UAE employment contract? 3. Saudi entry visa validity. www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
‘If I have a police case pending in Dubai, can I fly out from Abu Dhabi?' | The National
The reader has missed four months of debt repayment after losing their job
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 11/07/2025
The best book sale in Dubai is on again this Saturday - 12th July at Times Square Centre, 10am to 7pm. 1,000s of books to choose from. Paperbacks at just Dhs 10 each. All proceeds to local animal charities. Get a bargain and do good too. Youu can also drop off donations on the day. Please share
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 09/07/2025
You'd think that residency in the UK would be a requirement to be a Member of Parliament but it isn't. I've checked. If these petitions get enough signatures, they get attention so do take a minute to sign. Thanks #ukpolitics petition.parliament.uk/petitions/71...
petition.parliament.uk
Petition: Require candidates for MP to be registered to vote and residents of the UK
Currently, a candidate for MP is not required to be registered to vote or be resident in the UK. We ask the Government to require candidates for MP be registered to vote and residents of the UK.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 30/06/2025
This is my latest column in The National Newspaper #UAE 3 reader Q&As. Useful information so please have a read. 1. Which parents's nationality does a child take? 2. A query on buying an apartment in the UK. 3. What to include in a UAE offer of employment www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
‘Does a child take the mother’s or father’s nationality?’ | The National
A child can take the nationality of either parent or both
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 24/06/2025
Do you need to submit a UK self assessment tax return to HMRC? Want a bit of help but don’t want to pay a lot of money? I have the answer for you! This is valid no matter where you live - in the UAE anywhere else, even in the UK. See article: financialuae.me/2025/06/09/u...
financialuae.me
UK tax returns - a low-cost service - Financial Planning in the UAE
Do you need to submit a self assessment tax return to HMRC? Want a bit of help but don’t want to pay a lot of money? I have the answer for you! If you own a UK property that you … Continue reading →
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 09/06/2025
Do you need to submit a UK self assessment tax return to HMRC? Want a bit of help but don’t want to pay a lot of money? I have the answer for you! See article: financialuae.me/2025/06/09/u...
financialuae.me
UK tax returns - a low-cost service - Financial Planning in the UAE
Do you need to submit a self assessment tax return to HMRC? Want a bit of help but don’t want to pay a lot of money? I have the answer for you! If you own a UK property that you … Continue reading →
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 02/06/2025
Hello Monday! This is my latest column in The National News Useful information so please have a read. This week's Q&As: 1. Headline query about non-compete clauses 2. Can you carry forward unused annual leave? #uae #uaeemployment www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
‘Is a non-compete clause valid if I quit during the probation period?’ | The National
The worker shall be exempted from this clause if the employment contract is terminated during probation
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 23/05/2025
The best book sale in #Dubai is on tomorrow at Times Square Centre, 10am to 7pm. Thousands of books to choose from with paperbacks at just Dhs 10 each. All proceeds go to local animal charities. Get a bargain and do good. Donations welcome. Plenty of free underground parking. Pls share
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 19/05/2025
My latest column in The National newspaper Three reader Q&As. Useful info so please have a read. This week's Q&As: 1. Headline query about your UAE credit rating 2. Can you work for two employers when on a golden visa? 3. A query on UAE probationary periods www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
‘Will a missed loan payment affect my UAE credit report?’ | The National
The Al Etihad Credit Bureau records bounced cheques and has information on credit card usage
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 14/05/2025
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 05/05/2025
My latest column in The National Newspaper. Useful information so please read. This week's Q&As: 1. Headline query about legal problems by swearing at someone 2. Working a trial period 3. UK credit ratings and if another person can affect it www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
‘Can I get into legal trouble in the UAE for swearing?’ | The National
If a formal complaint has been lodged, its status can be checked at a police station
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 21/04/2025
This is my latest column in The National Newspaper- UAE Useful information so please have a read. This week's Q&As: 1. UAE golden visa and employment 2. UAE code of conduct on social media. 3. Maternity laws in Bahrain www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
'Will cancelling my work visa to obtain Abu Dhabi golden visa affect my gratuity?' | The National
Employer must apply for a non-sponsored work permit and is also legally obliged to continue providing medical insurance, exactly as before
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 18/04/2025
As we head into the weekend, some of us are a bit tired after a busy week. Although she is still in her workwear, young Margo here is taking it easy this afternoon. She has stolen my comfortable office chair too! Whatever your plans, have a good weekend folks! 😃
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 30/03/2025
Eid Mubarak! Wishing you all a happy Eid al Fitr. Enjoy the break Kullu aa’min wa antum bikhair
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 26/03/2025
A summary of today's UK Spring Statement, written for non-residents. This is the information that you need to know as GCC residents. Financial issues matter but I try and make it as painless as possible. Just part of my professional financial service. 😊 financialuae.me/2025/03/26/u...
financialuae.me
UK Spring Statement March 2025 – a summary for GCC residents - Financial Planning in the UAE
This was not a Budget according to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, but rather a forecast statement so we were not expecting much in the way of announcements. It was information about t...
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 21/03/2025
The best charity book sale in Dubai is on again this Saturday - 22nd March - at Times Square Centre, 10am to 7pm. Thousands of books to choose from with paperbacks at just Dhs 10 each. All proceeds go to local animal charities. Free underground parking. Please share & support local charity 🙏
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 12/03/2025
The people in the UK claiming that Dubai is nothing but skyscrapers haven’t a clue. False claims about the laws here, ignorant of Emirati culture & history. That’s Western arrogance. Ghastly “influencers” are not the only Brits here & most of us despise them & their grifting.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 10/03/2025
Short answer = NO! It's a scam. This is my latest column in The National newspaper #UAE 3 reader Q&As this week so have a read. I cover variety of topics across the GCC, including employment, consumer and legal issues, tax, banking, and much more. www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
‘Should I invest with a company offering me 3% returns per month for three years?’ | The National
There is no such thing as an investment that is fully capital-protected
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 03/03/2025
Someone got bored with doing the translations! 😆
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 03/03/2025
Today’s strange job title. Chief Hustler. Hmm…
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 28/02/2025
Ramadan Kareem to everyone who is celebrating this month. May your fasting be rewarded with peace and wellbeing. A time of reflection for us all. #Ramadan
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 26/02/2025
#UAE FGS people, stop driving dangerously. "UAE road accidents up by 46% in 2024 as population surges Deaths increase, with one in three victims in their twenties" www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/202...
thenationalnews.com
UAE road accidents up by 46% in 2024 as population surges | The National
Deaths increase, with one in three victims in their twenties
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 25/02/2025
“As you sow, so shall you reap”
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 25/02/2025
Excellent news. More of this please! “Dubai has fined 159 companies Dh50,000 each for breaching telemarketing regulations, with 174 receiving warnings.” www.thenationalnews.com/business/eco...
thenationalnews.com
Dubai fines 159 companies Dh50,000 each for violating telemarketing rules | The National
Government move aims to support economic stability and boost consumer protection
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 24/02/2025
#UAE Good morning! My latest column in @TheNationalNews This week's Q&As: 1. This headline query about a bank seeking info. Not a scam this time 2. All the reasons it is is illegal to work without a residency visa & work permit, & the consequences. www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
‘Will my bank ask for personal details over email or is it a scam?’ | The National
Regulated financial institutions may ask for credentials to update KYC as part of anti-money laundering and compliance procedures
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 23/02/2025
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 23/02/2025
That will you wrote a few years ago will not be valid if you have since married. You might as well not have one. Get in touch for straightforward and cost-effective will-writing options, for the UK, UAE and Commonwealth countries. It's easier than you think. Full and friendly advice as always.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 19/02/2025
I hear that M&S is now advertising on GB News. WTF? Ethics seems largely unknown to so many people.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 10/02/2025
Good morning! My latest column in The National newspaper This week's Q&As: 1. KSA . Can a woman sponsor her husband? 2. Passport validity for tourists 3. UAE. Final salary payments and your bank #UAE #KSA www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
‘Can a woman sponsor her husband in Saudi Arabia?’ | The National
Family sponsorship in the kingdom depends on the type of visa and employment contract
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 09/02/2025
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝗳 𝗶𝘁 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂? 🤔 New article on my website. Life can easily take a wrong turn but you can plan for it. Please have a read as it is important. financialuae.me/2025/02/06/w...
financialuae.me
What if it does happen to you? - Financial Planning in the UAE
Imagine receiving news that can totally change your life in an instant. No one knows what is around the corner. No one knows what will go wrong in their life, when illness will hit, when a breadwinner...
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 28/01/2025
A new article on the website: UK property - limited offer. Invest with a deposit of just 10% See article for details 👇and then get in touch for more info. financialuae.me/2025/01/28/u...
financialuae.me
UK property – limited offer. Invest with a deposit of just 10%! - Financial Planning in the UAE
Investing in UK property can be simpler than you might imagine, and need less cash than you might think. I have a new, limited, option, at low prices. It is clear that UK property remains one of the s...
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 21/01/2025
Nailed it!
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 21/01/2025
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 20/01/2025
Not everything in life needs to be a competition.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 13/01/2025
Good morning! First column in @thenationalnews.com for 2025. Q&As: 1. Headline query about annual leave for part-time employees 2. Mandatory medical insurance across the UAE & existing employees 3. Leaving work in the DIFC & visa cancellation. www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
Does the UAE’s annual leave law apply differently to part-time employees? | The National
All workers are entitled to leave depending on their working hours
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 11/01/2025
Getting into a bed with clean sheets is one of life’s greatest pleasures.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 08/01/2025
Apparently the fact I live in the UAE is good enough reason for certain types to have a go at me as they don’t like the politics or laws of this country. It’s weird to do that, and also their comments are both misguided and nasty.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 08/01/2025
A reminder to Zuckerberg, Musk et al. Freedom of speech does not mean freedom from responsibilities or freedom from consequences.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 07/01/2025
A new article on my website with useful advice: Beware banking fraud. How to beat the scammers financialuae.me/2025/01/07/b...
financialuae.me
Beware banking fraud. How to beat the scammers. - Financial Planning in the UAE
The sad reality is that there are large number of scammers who are working hard to hack your accounts, obtain your information, and take your money. Far too many are successful but you can take some s...
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 06/01/2025
Over on X Musk has totally lost the plot. His moronic supporters are as bad. Currently 58% agreeing with him. 🤦🏻‍♀️
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 01/01/2025
GCC people. Time for a fresh financial start. Serious topics, friendly conversations.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 31/12/2024
As we reach the final few hours of 2024, I'd like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a very Happy New Year. I hope next year brings you health, happiness and success. #happynewyear
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 16/12/2024
UAE residents - My latest column in The National newspaper 3 readers Q&As 1. Headline query about early renewal of a UAE residency visa & who pays the costs. 2. A query about smart gate registration. 3. Access to the UK's NHS on returning to live there. uae www.thenationalnews.com/business/mon...
thenationalnews.com
'Can my company force me to pay charges if I need to get my UAE visa renewed two weeks early?' | The National
In all situations, the costs of employment including visa and work permit fees are the responsibility of the employer
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 09/12/2024
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 06/12/2024
A beautiful day in Dubai today.
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Keren Bobker @financialuae.bsky.social · 04/12/2024
An interesting watch. Wealth inequality is worse than ever - across the world - yet somehow those earning, say, £25 ph are being convinced by billionaires that those earning £12 ph are the problem. And many people think that billionaires are the ones to fix this! www.youtube.com/watch?v=VUxe...
youtube.com
How Donald Trump Won in Two Words
YouTube video by Mother Jones
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