cost of living is increasing.. compared to south africa it is quite costly. i would suggest a compound or community, meadows, or springs for villas, or the greens for apartments. there arelots of great nurseries in jumeirah, try little wonders nursery between wasl and jumeirah. personally i dont agree with the idea of a nanny, u have a child, raise it.. but everyone had their right to opinion.
drivers license is quite simple. if uve seen the inside of a car, you're good to go, try Belhasa driving centre in Jumeirah, a lot of paperwork, but simple. furnished or unfurnished is realy up to u, if you like your personal taste to come out through your interior, then obviously, furnish it yourself, but if you get it furnished, it will save you a lot of time, and money.