I studied midwifery in Melbourne and graduated in 2019. I worked in a large hospital for 2.5years before I decided to have a tree change. I moved to Alice Springs 3 months ago to work.

I chose Alice Springs because I always wanted work in remote area, more specifically with the Indigenous population of Australia. I chose to do a 6 month contract as I felt that it was the right amount of time to find my feet and reassess if this was a place I wanted to extend and stay longer… so far so good.

The lifestyle here is so relaxed, everyone you speak to feels like they are on a holiday. I spend my weekends and days off at water holes, hiking, at art shows, car races, camping, 4WD, going out for dinner. There is something on every weekend here and the entire town attends, something that feels odd to experience.

Midwifery in Alice Springs is exciting. You aren’t quite sure what is going to walk through the door. Adapting to different communication styles and cultural differences takes time but is very worthwhile.

My favourite part of this adventure is the people. All the people here are so inclusive and so kind, it instantly feels like a home away from home.

The only advice I can give is, if you are contemplating moving to Alice Spring, do it!

- Emma


If you would you are interested in finding new places to work either locally or abroad, click 

A Nurse life in Alice Spring, Australia!

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a city that has a wealth of experiences to offer. From majestic mosques to amusement parks, there are plenty of things to do in Abu Dhabi that cater to all tastes. Here are five of the best:

One of Abu Dhabi's most prominent landmarks, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. The mosque's majestic white domes and minarets are a treat for the eyes. The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths and offers free guided tours. Visitors are required to dress modestly and women must cover their hair.

For art enthusiasts, the Abu Dhabi Louvre is a must-visit destination. The museum showcases an impressive collection of artworks from around the world, including masterpieces by Vincent Van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, and Claude Monet. The museum's design is itself a masterpiece, with a unique dome structure that creates a beautiful interplay of light and shadow.

The Corniche is a stunning waterfront promenade that stretches along Abu Dhabi's coast. It is a great place to take a walk, go for a run, or just relax and enjoy the picturesque views. Along the way, visitors can find numerous cafes, restaurants, and playgrounds for children.

Jubail Mangrove Park is an eco-friendly park that provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Abu Dhabi. The park is home to a diverse array of mangroves and marine life, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the park's well-maintained boardwalks, take guided tours, or even kayak through the mangroves.

Kai Beach is a picturesque beach that is located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi. It is a great place to relax and soak up some sun, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can swim in the warm waters of the Gulf, build sandcastles on the beach, or enjoy a picnic on the sand.

Ferrari World is an amusement park that's sure to thrill visitors of all ages. The park is home to the world's fastest roller coaster, the Formula Rossa, which reaches speeds of up to 240 km/h. There are also plenty of other rides, shows, and attractions to keep visitors entertained.

Qasr Al Hosn is a cultural site that dates back to the 18th century. It was once the home of the ruling family and has since been converted into a museum. Visitors can learn about Abu Dhabi's history and culture through interactive exhibits, artefacts, and multimedia presentations.

Whether you're interested in culture, history, or nature, there are plenty of things to do in Abu Dhabi that will leave you amazed and entertained. So, plan your career move to this fascinating city and make sure to check out these top seven attractions.

Abu Dhabi - Top 7 Places to Visit

Can you give us a snapshot of your nursing career thus far?

Well, I have been a nurse for nearly 30 years actually. I've moved around quite a bit and have a variety of experience both in Australia and in the Middle East. Most of my nursing background is in critical care, neuro ICU but also general ICU. I even spent a few years in NICU for something different. My most rewarding jobs always included an education component or a role which involved teaching and facilitating. My current job is a Clinical Resource Nurse (clinical nurse educator) for the Neuro units here. I absolutely love the role!


Which country/ place are you working in through CCM and why did you choose this country/place as your destination?

 I'm working in Abu Dhabi in the UAE. I've worked in the Middle East before, Saudi Arabia many years ago. I have always enjoyed this part of the world because of it's central location. It's not too far from any one place and travelling is cheaper from here. I also love that there is such a big expat community. You get to meet people from all different countries, backgrounds and cultures. It opens your mind.



Why did you choose to complete a short term contract?

I actually have an open contract. I plan on being here long term so an open contract suits me perfectly. I took a shorter term contract when I first came to the Middle East because I wasn't sure of what to expect. This time was different.

Please describe your lifestyle. For example, how did you spend your days/evenings/weekends off?

I think I actually have a better social life here than I did back in Australia. People who are away from home seem to make more of an effort to connect with others. I have only been here 6 months but I already have friends from UK, USA, Jordan and South Africa. We often catch up at each other's house or go to one of the many good restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
I visited the Louvre Art Gallery which was wonderful. There are short trips you can take to Oman for example. Dubai is only 1 hr 15min drive from here too.

What’s the lifestyle like in your chosen destination?

It is very comfortable actually. You have to adjust to the heat and make allowances for that in the summer months. But everything is airconditioned so it's not a problem. If you want to go out for a walk, do it when the sun comes down or before it comes up. It's very safe here so walking around at night is not a problem. Otherwise, I can live a very similar lifestyle to what I did in Australia but I'm better off financially.

(How is it different to home and how do you adapt to the differences?) I will be honest there are some differences here. However, there's a lot about nursing that's universal. The medical system is very much like the USA system which can be a challenge at times. The nurses are from all over the world and that can be both good and challenging too. You just need to keep an open mind and accept that things are different and if you adapt to the differences while maintaining your own standards you will be fine.

What kind of facilities did you have in your accommodation and local area?

Well , the best non-job-related part about this contract was the housing allowance. I live in an awesome apartment right near the water with great views. I would never have afforded a place anywhere like this in Australia. There are plenty of supermarkets, shopping centre nearby, restaurants, bars etc. I love where I live.

Workwise I would have to say the opportunities I have to work on a whole variety of projects. I also have some flexibility and freedom to develop my own education program. I love the role and the people I work with are great. Non-work wise I would say the friends I have made and the holiday I have planned to visit Norway and see the Northern Lights. For example, the most rewarding or your favourite aspect(s) of living/ working in.

What general advice would you give to someone thinking of travelling to SSMC?

Keep an open mind and know that changes are happening for the better. We are in an exciting transition phase from a government run facility to the Mayo Clinical model. You can be involved in that transition process which is a unique experience. Also, we do lots of great education and you can get free conferences here too. Bring a sense of adventure and the willingness to learn something new. But also bring a willingness to teach what you know to others. The facilities are brand new with all the latest equipment. It's quite amazing!

If you would you are interested in finding new places to work either locally or abroad, click 

Abu Dhabi's ICU Nurse Experiences

Saudi Arabia has been described as the “final frontier” of tourism by Lonely Planet. Previously shrouded in mystery, there was not a lot known about the domestic wonders hidden with this vast desert country. However, it has recently opened up to tourism and as a result, the opportunities for exploration & discovery have grown. From the coastline of the Red Sea, to the mountainous ranges of Hijaz, the ancient archaeology of Mada’in Saleh, the religious birthplace of Mecca or the cosmopolitan city of Riyadh – there is so much to see and explore in this beautiful country.

Look no further than the capital city of 

, located in the heart of the country. The city is comprised of soaring architectural stunning towers in the center of a sweeping desert. Here you’ll find 5 star Michelin restaurants, designer shopping malls, lively festivals and a thriving cosmopolitan atmosphere. Our top pics

High tea at the Globe: you’ll be served the finest of foods with sweeping views of the city.

Sky Bridge: be rocketed to the 99th floor of Kingdom tower and take the perfect selfie

Masmak Fortress: delve into the history or modern Saudi

Al Diraiyah: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, an oasis within the city

 is located on the coast of the Red Sea. Home to fantastic dive sites, bustling souq’s and stunning coastline it’s often the first city that travelers visit upon arrival in the country. Our top picks:

The Corniche: take a walk along the coastline. There’s children’s parks, cafes, a pulsing local atmosphere not to be missed.

Al Balad: A UNESCO listed heritage site where the old world meets the new

Diving day trips: Relatively untouched by tourism, Jeddah is the perfect place to explore what’s under the sea. Be amazed by the variety of sea life and colorful corals as you explore the natural beauty of the Red Sea. Don’t miss the 

Al Wahba Crater: a day trip from Jeddah, the crater is believed to have been caused by a meteorite and is perfect for those up for an adventure

Madain Saleh is not to be missed. Full of history and archaeological wonders, the area dates back to ancient civilization of the Nabatean. Beautifully carved stone tombs with ancient texts invaluable to historians. Unlike its sister city of Petra, Jordan, Madain Saleh is relatively untouchedby tourism allowing its ancient and fragile beauty to remain intact. Do not miss Madain Saleh!

For more ancient wonders, the Jubbah rock carvings located in Central Najd date back to 5500BC. Here you’ll find some of the most impressive petroglyphs you’ll ever see.

 encompasses mountain ranges nearly 3000m above sea level. 

 is famous for misty cold weather and boasts stunning views. It’s not for the faint hearted though, there are no marked hiking or trekking trails, the routes can be tricky and mist or thick fog is common. Having said that, if you want to go off the beaten track, where better than the mountains.

The Hanging Village of Habala: An ancient village accessible only by ropes and situated half way down a cliff face.

Paraglide down form the mountain tops: what better place for stunning views than fom the sky itself?

The City of Abha: located in the Asir province there’s a lot to explore in this region and so much local wonder to discover

The above is just a taste of what Saudi has to offer. There’s so much to explore and discover in this unknown part of the world. We encourage you to take full advantage of your item there, hit the road and explore!


If you would you are interested in finding new places to work either locally or abroad, click 

Attractiveness in Saudi Arabia

Candidate Stories: Lisa M. - Director of Nursing Education, Saudi Arabia

Which country are you working in and why did you choose this destination?

I am working at Prince Sultan Cardiac Center in the centre of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. I have wanted to work in the Middle East for some time and while Saudi wasn’t my first choice (I wanted to go to the UAE because I have been there before) I am really pleased to be here. I think now is the time for Saudi. Things have opened up considerably, there is no longer a requirement to cover as long as you wear modest clothes. Women can drive, although I haven’t braved that yet I will. The Saudi people are warm and genuine and seem happy that you are here.

What facilities do you have in your accommodation?

I am in a new apartment building which is still being completed. Because I am in a Director role my apartment is large and spacious. I have three bedrooms and three bathrooms with large terraces. It is fully furnished with good quality furniture. There was a welcome pack there when I arrived which had bed linen, crockery and some basic food items which was really helpful. The building has yet to be completely finished but the gym looks to be finished soon and the swimming pool later in the year.

When you first arrived, what supports did the hospital have in place to help you adjust?

I was picked up from the airport and taken to my apartment building by a contact from the hospital. After a 29 hr trip I was exhausted and not actually sure where I was so couldn’t order a taxi to go anywhere because I didn’t know my address to get back. Thankfully someone from the hospital who lives in the building came to say hello and fill me in. The good thing about being surrounded by expats is they have all been where you are when you arrive so have plenty of really good advice on how to navigate sorting out your phone, wifi, where the supermarket is etc. I attended General Nursing Orientation the second week I arrived which helped put everything in context.

How do you spend your days/evenings/weekends off?

I arrived in the middle of summer which was extremely hot. I left New Zealand at 5 degrees and arrived in Riyadh at 47 degrees. Things tend to be quiet over summer as it is so hot but as the weather cools down there is more to do. I spend my time exploring Riyadh, there is so much to see. Because it is so multi cultural you can dine out in any cuisine you would like. The food is fantastic and not expensive, although can be if you want it to be. The evenings are the time to be out, after the sun goes down and the temperature cools down. I like walking down some of the newer shopping areas just taking in the sites and being outside. I have joined the local ladies gym because ours is yet to be finished so go there most days after work before heading out to somewhere new.

I am enjoying experiencing the different culture. Things are open so late and you can do anything at any time you fancy. I went to the movies at midnight last week and then for a walk at 3am because it was cool. Time is very different here and you slot in pretty quickly with that. After I have finished my probation I am looking forward to travelling around the Gulf countries, everything is so close and accessible.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of travelling to your chosen destination?

Come with an open mind. Things are different, you need a lot of patience and the bureaucracy is another level. It doesn’t mean it’s bad, it is just different. Leave behind any preconceived ideas, inevitably they are wrong. There is a lot to see and do here if you are willing to make the most of opportunities you will enjoy it.

Candidate Stories: Lisa M. - Director, Saudi Arabia

Candidate Stories: Mia G. - Midwife, Ireland

Can you give us a snapshot of your nursing/allied healthcare career thus far?

I am currently in my 5th year as a registered midwife, originally from Australia.

Which country are you working in through CCM?

Why did you choose this country as your destination?

I wanted to live and work somewhere fun and exciting! Dublin has already lived up to that completely.

I was reimbursed for my flights from Australia to Ireland, which was a massive financial help. Then I came straight into my accommodation which had been set up with all the necessities I might need. I will be here in this accommodation (rent free) for the first 3 months which, with rentals as hard
to find as they are, was a massive relief!

What type of facilities do you have in your accommodation and local area?

My accommodation is a lovely new build with a gym and common area all included. There is excellent public transport nearby which gets me straight to work and to the city centre.

I have been out for drinks with new friends from work and to the cinema. Most weeknights I spend inside keeping cozy with a book or a new TV series.

What is nursing/allied healthcare like in your new country? (How is it different to home and how do you adapt to the differences?)

Midwifery/labour and delivery care has a lot of similarities and a lot of differences to the care I was providing at home in Australia. The policies and guidelines take some getting used to but overall, it was quite easy to settle into.

What professional development opportunities were offered to you?

I have been signed up to a perineal suturing workshop, a preceptorship program and several other courses which I am excited to commence.

So far, I have found the best part about the move to be the people. The staff at my new hospital have been so welcoming and encouraging in my first month here. Staff from every discipline have taken the time to introduce themselves and find out more about me. It has made a daunting process so much easier and less intimidating.

Even though the registration process can be long and quite slow, it is so worth it. I am already having so much fun here and I know I have made the right choice.

Candidate Stories - Sophie H., ICU RN in UAE

 I started off in the OR and Cardiac Theatre, then transitioned into the ICU after a few years. While in the ICU I've done a range of different specialties including cardiac, med-surg, and trauma.

I felt this location was a good travel hub for various parts of the world, and of course experiencing a different culture and seeing how a different model of care, compared to back home, was intriguing to me.

There was a lot of support at the beginning. Since arriving at the airport, I was met by someone from the organisation and almost everything was taken care of. During the general orientation, the education staff also helped me organise aspects of life such as banking and other small things that make life easier while here.

What kind of facilities do you have in your accommodation and local area?

On the island where I live, there is a bar and a mall with an indoor ski slope which will be opening soon. The accommodation provided is fully furnished and taken care of. The complex has a number of swimming pools and gyms and we're also provided with free busses too and from work.

So there are plenty of things to do on your day off, like heading to Dubai, or going to one of the various beaches. The opportunities to travel are also great with a number of annual leave days that we are given.

What is nursing/allied healthcare like in your new country? 

(How is it different to home and how do you adapt to the differences?)

It's different because it is an American model of care. Back in New Zealand the nurses look after the ventilators and will prepare the majority of the medications at the bedside, where as here we have respiratory therapists who manage the vents and most medications are prepared by pharmacy and sent to us. I do like that there are more advanced treatments here and services that will proactively round on patients - it seems more individualised than back home in that regard.

We have a number of education offered here on the Cardiac ICU, such as a pathway to look after post cardiac surgical patients. There are also education sessions on the more advanced practices and devices we use to look after patients like IABP, Pacing, Impella and ECMO.

I have definitely made some good friends here from all over the world, and I think being here has reinforced my passion and drive for nursing.

I think if you are coming over here, you have to be prepared that it will be different, and to try and make the best out of any challenging situations you may find yourself in, as these happen every day in healthcare no matter where you are. Being adaptable to situations is also helpful and doing the best you can.

Candidate Stories: Sophie H. - ICU RN, UAE

Essential Tips for Writing a Standout Nursing CV: A Nurse-Turned-Recruiter’s Guide

As a nurse, your CV is the first impression you make on potential employers, and it's crucial to get it right. A well-crafted CV can set you apart from the competition and help you secure that desired interview. As former nurses and experienced recruiters in the healthcare industry, we know what employers are looking for. In this guide, we’ll walk you through key steps to help you write a standout nursing CV that effectively showcases your skills, experience, and professionalism.

Highlight Key Information and Experience in Healthcare: 

Your clinical expertise is the backbone of your CV. Make sure to:

Ensure your name, contact phone, and email address is listed on the top of the CV.

Mention all relevant licenses (e.g. APRN, RN, RM) and registrations (AHPRA, APC) along with their validity dates. Employers want to ensure that you’re fully qualified for the role.

: Do not use a one-size-fits-all approach. Adjust your CV to highlight experiences and skills that align with the specific job you’re applying for. Focus on specialisations and list them down in bullet points. For example, if you’re applying for a critical care position, emphasise your experience in a high-pressure environment, capability in changing tubes or mechanically ventilate a patient, or any other specific skills likely needed or relevant to the job.

A well-organised CV makes it easier for employers to quickly assess your qualifications. Here’s how to structure your CV effectively:

: Use headings such as "Clinical Experience", "Education”, and "Certifications" to organise information in a logical way.

: Present your work history and education starting from the most recent. Make sure to note the hospital name – ward, length of time and dates you worked there as well as your roles and responsibilities in this workplace. For example, how much is the patient ratioor if you have any experience as in-charge. This way, employers can quickly see your most current experience.

: Keep the CV to a maximum of two pages if possible, focusing on relevant, recent experience. Be mindful to only include the applicable experience, for example, you are applying for a nursing position, there’s no need to include unrelated experience such as working at a restaurant.

Showcase Special Projects or Leadership Roles

: If you have previously led a team, managed a unit, or implemented a patient care improvement project, this should be clearly presented.

Highlight Education and Commitment to Continuous Learning: 

Healthcare is an ever-evolving industry, and employers want to see that you are committed to staying up-to-date.

: Be sure to include all your degrees and advanced certifications. If you’ve pursued any continuing education or professional development courses, formal or informal, mention these as well.

: Highlight any recent training or development that relates to the role. If you have completed training on new patient care technologies or updated your ALS certification, this can show that you are keeping up with the industry advancements.

With the increasing use of technology in healthcare, technical proficiency is a major plus.

Mention Proficiency in Healthcare Software

: If you are familiar with the use of Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, such as Epic or Cerner, be sure to include this on your CV as these skills are highly valued.

: You should also list any other technical skills, such as using specific medical devices or tools used in your specialty, whether it’s patient monitoring tools or specialised equipment.

Attention to detail in your CV reflect your professionalism. Be sure to:

 Spelling mistakes, grammar errors, or formatting inconsistencies can leave a poor impression. Be sure to proofread your CV or have someone else review it to catch any mistake.

: A concise, compelling summary at the top of the CV can capture key skills and experiences right away, giving employers a snapshot of who you are as a nurse.

: Prepare a list of professional references, or if you wish to notify the referee before being contacted, you may include “References available upon request”.

Writing a great CV doesn’t have to be intimidating. By following these tips, you can create a well-structured, impactful CV that highlights your qualifications and sets you up for success in your job search. Remember, your CV reflects your professional self, so take time to ensure it’s polished, relevant, and customised to the role you want and are applying for.

Need Help Perfecting Your CV? We Can Help!

We at CCM Recruitment understand how important a strong CV is in landing your ideal nursing role. That’s why we offer a free CV template to all our applicants. Our experienced recruiters will work with you one-on-one to ensure your CV highlights your strengths, skills, and experience in the best possible way.

Ready to get started? Reach out to us and take the next step in your nursing career!

It’s a common misconception that there is no social life for expats in Saudi Arabia. Like any country, life is what you make of it. If you’re open to invitations, trying new things & meeting new people, you’ll be amazed at what’s on offer. Behind the veiled curtain that the media portrays, Saudi Arabia has an incredibly active social scene where one can be as active or as quiet as one likes.

One of the best ways to make new friends when you arrive in a new country, is to join a sporting team. Depending on what suits you there’s a number of clubs and associations around the country which are available to new arrivals.

The Gaelic Football club is located in Riyadh & runs across the Middle East with teams travelling to neighboring Middle Eastern countries for championship matches.

The club also has a Hurling and Camogie base for those wanting to branch out from football.

The athletic club has been running since 1978 with branches in the coastal cities of Dharhan & Jeddah. The club focusses on marathons, cycling and triathlons and hosts races with approximately 250 -300 participants.

If you live in Jeddah or love to dive oyu can’t go past the dive scene on the Red Sea. There’s an array of clubs available with people going out each weekend to explore what the relatively untouched coastline has to offer. Once you arrive in the country, you’ll soon find a club that suits you, just ask around.

Latin dancing is surprisingly popular in the Middle East with many festivals being held around the region. Saudi itself has a growing dance scene with many compounds hosting classes and salsa clubs popping up across the region. Ask around and you’ll find a club or dance school near you. Great way to meet people and get the endorphins pumping.

If you’re just looking for a bit of fun, try BOUNCE. It’s a theme park filled with wall to wall trampolines. Embrace your inner child and jump around. Its good exercise and most importantly will have you laughing with joy.

Yoga, Pilates, hiking, hockey, rock climbing, badminton, tennis, volleyball and other sports are all available in the Kingdom along with a multitude of other sporting activities. Just ask around and you’ll soon discover what you’re looking for.

With the country slowly opening up, you’ll find there’s a lot more locally run festivals available providing you with the opportunity to appreciate the local culture.

Arguably the largest cultural festival in Saudi, it takes place over two weeks in February each year. Expect to see traditional sword dances, horse and camel races, local arts and crafts, songs and poetry, falconry & delicious food – it’s the best way to learn more about the Saudi culture and experience what the country you’ve chosen to live in has to offer.

Riyadh Season was a 3 month festival which covered a variety of themes to celebrate the social life of Saudi. 31 restaurants had pop up stalls to satisfy the culinary tastes of foodies. Concerts were held across the city including local Arabian stars as well as famous Korean pop band 

 was created spouting ice-skating rinks, Ferris wheels and fairground rides. Theatre lovers could enjoy plays such as 

. The festival had something for everyone and is sure to be back again this year.

As part of the major car racing event E-Prix, a massive music festival was held in Saudi with stars including Enrique Iglesias, Amr Diab, David Guetta, One Republic and the Black Eyed Peas all performing to a sold out crowd.

It’s a fantastic time to be on the ground in Saudi as you watch the country change before your eyes. A lot has been invested with a string of cultural events planned for the coming months and years.

Many embassies will also have events which expats are welcomed to join. You’ll need to contact the embassy and be on their event mailing list. Some embassies are open to all expats, and some will require you to be the “plus one” to someone from their country. 

 is one of the more popular events held by the Embassies in Saudi with concerts ad different cultural events being held throughout the month of July. Ladies, when packing your bags, make sure you bring at least 1-2 ball gowns, embassy balls are held throughout the year. You’ll also find the Australian and New Zealand embassies hosting their own events – if you’re from one of these countries, reach out and ask to be on the mailing list.

A decade ago, Saudi had almost no art galleries. Fast forward to now and local artists are flourishing. From traditional, to abstract, to graffiti more and more art is popping up across the city. Check out where to find the best art galleries 

. If you’re interested in more textile forms of art, take a look at 

 where modern design meets traditional Islamic craft.

If you’re living in one of the major cities – Riyadh or Jeddah, there will be an array of restaurants and dining options for you. From local street food, to food trucks and fine dining there’s plenty of opportunity to explore the culinary delights of Saudi. A popular place is 

 where many expats go for a night out and to experience the local atmosphere.

There’s all forms of entertainment popping up across Saudi as it begins to diversify and become more tourist friendly. One of the more popular forms of entertainment – 

. Put your mind to the test and figure out this puzzle to reach the end of the maze.

There’s so much to explore in the country itself, too much to list in this article. For more info on domestic travel check out our Domestic Travel blog here.

Expat Life in Saudi Arabia

Leianne, I am an RN of 14 years. I have ED, Radiology, and Outpatient experience and currently doing Emergency Dept in Adelaide, SA.

Alvin, 17 years of RN experience, specializing in ICU/CCU. Currently working as a RN in Adelaide SA.

We’ve heard so many good things about Australia in terms of pay/compensation and benefits. Also, we think that Australia is a nice and safe country to build a life and raise a family.

They provided a two-week hotel accommodation which was in a good location for us to easily navigate Adelaide. They also gave us relocation assistance which made looking for rental a lot less stressful. With regard to work rosters, our managers are very understanding and accommodating with our needs and request given that we are still adjusting with a baby.

There are parks everywhere, tram, bus stops, grocery and shopping areas are nearby. Also multiple childcare centres, local library, beaches nearby, restaurants everywhere. There’s really a lot.

We do a lot of errands as well as family time. We love hitting the beach on a good day.

Healthcare here is a lot easier and more straightforward. As nurses, we are also given more autonomy and respect from colleagues.

E-learnings and mandatory trainings and opportunity to embark on post graduate studies

We mostly enjoyed the beach and how chill and calm Adelaide is. We also appreciate the salary sacrifice offered by our work.


What advice would you give to someone thinking of travelling to your chosen destination?


Go for it. Moving is difficult and exhausting but it will help you grow in your career and as a person. Adelaide is a nice place with nice people. You can either hit the beach or the hills, there’s not much traffic here, and everything is a 15-20 minute drive. Sometimes even less.


Family of Nurses in Adelaide, South Australia

I began my nursing career in 2018 working in Auckland, New Zealand and have been there until I moved to Saudi Arabia this year.


Which country are you working in through CCM and why did you choose this country as your destination?


I am working in Saudi Arabia. I chose to come here to experience somewhere completely new and out of my comfort zone, and see a whole different side to life we don’t get in New Zealand


How do you spend your days and weekends off?


At the moment it is winter, so days off are mostly spent outdoors before it starts getting hot again! I am still quite new so this tends to be exploring the city and the malls, and socialising with the other expats.


The lifestyle is very relaxed so far. I came to Saudi expecting a very constrictive lifestyle being a female, however, a lot of the time I feel like I am at home again. The locals are all very friendly and generous.

What would be your top 3 travel tips for others travelling during Covid?

 – Invest in a comfortable mask! You spend a very long time wearing them travelling so pays to have a good one.


 - Hydrate a lot, I found I dried out quite
quickly with the added mask on.


 – If you’re travelling in a group, sitting together means you don’t get a whole row to yourself to sleep. Social distancing can have it’s benefits!

What is nursing/allied healthcare like in your new country?


Nursing in Saudi is fairly similar to back in New Zealand, however, care assistants have more duties with patient monitoring which takes a load off the nurses. So far, the main difference is having online documentation, learning this new system and how to document everything correctly has been challenging but, I take it one day at a time and learn something new everyday.


My accommodation has single rooms with a pool and gym available. Supermarkets and the mall are only a 5-10 minute drive away.

Has your job changed since COVID and how have you adapted?

Joining during Covid, I arrived to orientation and my unit assignment was changed from general surgery to general medicine, which I have no previous experience in. During my orientation I kept an open mind and asked questions. I took this move as an opportunity to learn a new specialty and expand my professional knowledge. It has been difficult but opening myself to new information has made it much easier to manage.


Is Saudi Arabia beginning to modernise as a country?

Absolutely! Arriving here I had many thoughts onwhat my life would be like living as a woman. Iwould never have dreamed that I would be ableto walk out in public wearing jeans and no onewould bat an eye. Most women still wear anabaya but, the style of dress is rapidly changingthrough the younger generations.

So far my favourite part of Saudi is the new people I meet every day. Although most patients have very limited English, they all make an effort to say hello or thank you in a way I can understand. My colleagues from all areas always
have a smile on their face.

What general advice would you give to someone thinking of travelling to your chosen destination?

Don’t think twice. I have been in Saudi for 1month now, I do miss home but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Keep an open mind and Saudi can show you a whole different side to life you didn’t know existed.

Dominique with friends in Saudi Arabia having a picnic.

Nursing in Saudi Arabia

So you’ve done your research, talked to your family and friends & have decided to take your career to Saudi Arabia.What’s the process? The ultimate question…. All international nursing, whether it be Europe, America or the Middle East, takes time. This is due to overseas nurse licensing & work visa/permit applications.Saudi Arabia is our most popular location with Aussies and Kiwi nurses travelling there for work every month! To work in Saudi Arabia there are 4 main steps. The entire process can take 

 so it’s good to plan ahead. Don’t worry, we will help you through it all!

The benefit of Nursing in Saudi Arabia is that you can secure employment before you have to apply for nursing registration and work visa permits. To apply you’ll need an updated CV and completed application forms. You’ll then be asked to complete an interview via an online platform such as WhatsApp, Zoom or Skype. If you’re successful, you’ll receive an official job offer letter and we can help you complete the necessary paperwork!



The registration board for Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). The registration process can be quite complex, so at CCM, we do this for you!

There are 4 main steps for nurse registration:


Dataflow is a company hired by SCFHS to verify your qualifications. You’ll just need to send us scanned copies of these documents. We then send them to dataflow for verification. The process takes approximately 6 weeks. The documents you’ll need to provide are:

Mumaris plus is the SCFHS online portal for nurse registration. Once Dataflow has verified all your documents, we will upload the required information to the Mumaris plus portal for you. The SCFHS will then assess and determine if you meet their criteria to be a Registered Nurse in their country. If you do, you’ll receive an eligibility number. You need this number to progress to the next step.



You’ll find that most overseas registration boards require you to take an exam. For Ireland it’s the RCSI exam, for the UK it’s the OSCE exam, for Saudi it’s the Prometric Exam. Our best advice for the exam – don’t stress! The Prometric Exam is multiple choice & based on the different specialties of nursing. You have 3 hours to complete it. Most nurses have it done within an hour. You only need 45% to pass and you have 3 attempts to complete it. We haven’t had any nurses fail this exam and you won’t be the first!

Once you’ve passed the Prometric Exam, the results are automatically sent to the SCFHS. After approximately 2 weeks, they’ll issue you with your “Professional Classification”. With this, you can travel to Saudi where you complete the final stage through the hospital, as they will be your work sponsor. You’ll then be fully licensed!

The process takes approximately 8 – 12 weeks* and is done in conjunction with your nursing registration. There is some paperwork required including: Nursing degree authentication, Police check & Medical. Don’t worry, we have a dedicated team to help you with all the required paperwork & apply for this visa on your behalf.

*processing time frames vary, this is just a guide

Once you have your nurse registration and work visa/permit you’re ready to hop on the plane! All of our Recruitment Consultants have lived and worked in Saudi Arabia and remember how daunting that first step on the plane can be. We are dedicated to compiling resource materials about the culture, work and life in Saudi Arabia so that you can be better prepared for when you arrive. We’re all happy to answer any questions you have, the challenge is getting us to stop talking about it! Once we go down memory lane, we may never stop!

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