Finding the Right Job Abroad

Despite the political unrest and conflict that has plagued regions of the Middle East for a number of decades, in general the Gulf States are progressive and provide safe and family-friendly places to work. It is worth noting that men outnumber women by approximately five to one (and foreign women may find it much more difficult to find acceptable well-paid work) and also that homosexuality is considered a crime throughout the entire Middle East. The sale and consumption of alcohol is restricted (although the nightlife in Dubai is far from staid and quiet). In the UAE all employees are able to buy and drive their own car; however in Saudi Arabia women are not permitted to drive. The crime rate in the UAE and Saudi Arabia is virtually non-existent and Dubai is the most modern and cosmopolitan city in the Middle East, with a huge selection of shopping centres and restaurants, a bustling centre of high-rise tower blocks, majestic luxury hotel resorts and busy, crowded streets. Indeed it has been called the “shopping capital of the Middle East”.

The Middle East is hot all year round and so all public buildings tend to be well air-conditioned, and both men and women are expected to dress conservatively for most types of work. (In Saudi Arabia, Islamic dress code is compulsory.) Before moving to the Middle East, do some research into the traditions and customs of the Arabic culture as they do expect a standard of decorum from all members of society. It should also be noted that the bargaining prowess of an Arab businessman should never be underestimated!