Relocating (Abu Dhabi)

Hi all, I'm relocating to AD in February and am looking for any and all advice on living there especially best areas to find accommodation, preferably a 2/3bed bungalow or villa with a small garden. We want to be around other ex-pats. I'll be on my own for the first few months , my family Protected content will be joining me around July. My wife has read that areas dogs allowed are very restricted is concerned without her daily exercise our dog will go stir crazy. I'd really appreciate any comments and advice, however leaving our dog behind is not an option, as my wife says, "it's a deal breaker"
Thanks in advance and looking forward to making new contacts on AD internations
Alan.