you might have a slot held for you at a particular school.  However, I don't think it applies until the child is four years old.

I'm in the same boat as you, by the way.  My son will be three in July, but we won't arrive in Doha until August.  Our timing probably puts us at an even greater disadvantage.  I've been spoiled here in Houston because my son is in a fantastic Montessori school that is just blocks from our house. . .sure will miss that