I have tried to go through a recruitment company (Allied Health Employment)but they said I would not be able to get work unless I had 3 years experience and said I needed 3 years to gain registration. I have heard back from the Emirates Physiotherapy Society who confirmed as you said that 2 years experience is essential in Dubai but they said they did not know the requirements for Abu Dhabi.
I may have to stick out my 2 years here in NZ but I'll try all other options first because my husbands job offer is only open for so long. He is not a Westerner like me so I know what you mean by being descriminated against by nationality. Some of his friends (they are not physios though) could earn much more in the same position in NZ but then others have some how broken through that barrier and are earning very well but it is definately easier for Westerners from what they say.
Is it actual physio's doing the hiring at the hospitals there? coz surely it will make their job much easier if they pick the best candidate for the job unstead of picking nationalities! I have been warned things like this will frustrate me but then I have heard many positive things about Dubai also.
Well I will try some more recruitment companies and see if I can make some progress with Abu Dhabi instead. Haven't given up yet :-)