Candidate Stories: Lisa M. - Director, 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.

What have you enjoyed most to date?

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.

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