Many people dream of working in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to gain international work experience. Using platforms like LinkedIn can be really helpful in this journey. However, there are other important things that aspiring candidates should keep in mind.
Both countries are home to multinational companies and provide an enabling environment, with better salaries.
A wide range of job openings are available in the above-mentioned countries in the energy sector and the healthcare sector.
Websites like Bayt.com, Naukri.com, and GulfTalent indicate that job opportunities can be found in fields like property and finance.
Below are steps to secure a job in the Middle East.
Networking:
In any job, it’s important to be good at connecting with others to build more links and stronger work relationships. Going to work events and making friends in your industry, either in person or on platforms like LinkedIn, can really help you build a great network.
They can join industry-specific groups to be updated about the latest job trends in the region.
People working in multinational companies, with offices in Gulf countries, can also ask their human resource departments or heads concerned to transfer them to the region.
Recruitment agencies, websites:
A lot of people know that in Gulf countries, many companies use recruitment agencies to help them find new employees. These companies tell the agencies what kind of positions they need to fill, and then the agencies post these job openings online to find the right candidates.
People should research reputable agencies and submit their resumes or CVs to those that specialize in their respective fields.
A lot of people know that in Gulf countries, many companies use recruitment agencies to help them find new employees. These companies tell the agencies what kind of positions they need to fill, and then the agencies post these job openings online to find the right candidates.
Aspirants can also sign up with recruitment agencies that operate in Saudi Arabia. Like Holden Knight and Regent Personnel recruit for healthcare jobs in the Middle East. The Saudian Yellow Pages have a list of recruitment agencies.
Most of the jobs require an application form to be filled with a CV. Some of the jobs also require a cover letter, which is written as per the requirements of the job.
Interviews:
Video interviews have become more common since the coronavirus pandemic when most of the world was at a standstill due to the lockdown. The drill is the same as for the in-person interview.
Job seekers should prepare themselves, dress professionally, research the company and the desired role, and prepare thoughtful answers after receiving the call for an interview. In some cases, candidates are asked to take a test that is monitored by them.
Securing a visa:
The need for speedy issuance of work visas has increased with the pace of projects under Vision 2030.
In Saudi Arabia, if someone wants to work there, the employer, whether a business owner or part of a company, has to support their temporary work visa. This process is done online, and the visa is valid for a year, allowing the person to stay in the country for up to 90 days at a time.
In the UAE, when an employer in the country hires someone from outside, they take care of the visa process. It’s important to note that working on a tourist or visit visa is not allowed. Once a job offer is accepted, the employer applies for a residency visa for the new employee. After that, the employee can get a work permit from the Ministry of Labor.
UAE work permits and employment visas can last between one and 10 years.
Language requirements:
Arabic is the language used in Saudi Arabia and the UAE along with English, Hindi, Persian, and Urdu as the countries are also home to a large number of expatriates from India and Pakistan.
People in these countries commonly speak English for everyday conversations and business interactions. Still, having a grasp of Arabic would greatly enhance your understanding of the local culture and make you more street-smart.
