Saudi Arabia
Aspects of working in the Middle East

Living & Working in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia

Some of the most attractive aspects of working in the Middle East are:



  • Salary Paid Tax-Free
  • Free accomodation
  • Free flights
  • Medical Cover
  • Bonus schemes on completion of contracts


Many, who have worked in the Gulf States, have had the experience of a lifetime, made lifelong friends, travelled the world and returned home financially secure.

Saudi Arabia has become a land of opportunity with more than 2 million foreign workers, one in six of the population. Job openings attract people from Ireland, the UK, Europe, the USA, Australia and the Far East.

Saudi Arabia is not a conventional tourist destination. Most people go to Saudi Arabia for business or to fulfil the once-in-a lifetime pilgrimage to Mecca.

When you have time off you may want to venture out and see something of this unique country. Steep ridges, rolling dunes and dazzlingly green oasis contrast with the underwater wonders of the Red Sea coral reefs. Lose yourself in the market-place bustle of the souks; or wander out to gaze at remains of the long-lost civilisations that flourished and declined along the old spice routes.


The enjoyment and success of your trip may depend on your willingness to respect the Saudi way of life. Learn a few words of Arabic with its elaborately turned phrases – you will give infinite pleasure and open the door to renowned Saudi hospitality. You cannot fail to come to terms with the key phrase “in shalah”, meaning “God willing”. It is one of the most important phrases in Arabic. Allah takes care of everything. All Saudi life revolves round this simple, but fundamental rule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to get registered to work in Saudi Arabia?

Every health care professional is required to obtain a license to work in Saudi Arabia https://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/about/pages/organization.aspx The process is complex. CCM Recruitment will work with you throughout the process.

Am I eligible to work in Saudi Arabia?

To be eligible to work in Saudi Arabia, candidates must have the following:

  • Current nursing registration
  • Minimum of 2 years nursing experience in the specialty you are applying for (must be acute hospital experience)
  • Australian/New Zealand working rights
  • Bachelor’s degree in nursing

Is English spoken in the hospital?

English is the working language in the hospitals. Translators, and ward clerks who act as translators, are always available to assist in communicating with patients who do not speak English. Hospitals offer free courses in basic Arabic and one quickly picks up the basic Arabic phrases related to one’s job.

Where will I live?

Most expatriate staff either live on the hospital compound or in a private compound.

What is the social life like?

Like anywhere, the social life is what you make of it. There are organised trips to sites of historical interest, sports competitions, and other recreational activities (tournaments, marathons, etc.). Dinner parties, desert parties, and beach parties are common. There are concerts at embassies and expatriates organise amateur theatre companies and musical ensembles in the major cities.

Does Saudi Arabia have a tourist industry?

There is a domestic tourist industry in Saudi Arabia, where large numbers of families both from within the country and from neighbouring states travel to the numerous vacation spots along the Arabian Gulf coast, on the Red Sea, in rural areas such as the Asir National Park, and in mountain resorts such as Taif. Throughout the Kingdom, there are first-class hotels, excellent facilities and all kinds of restaurants, and many places of great historic interest and natural beauty.

What should an expatriate wear in Saudi Arabia?

Expatriates in Saudi Arabia must dress modestly and conservatively in public. Women should wear long, loose clothing, high-necked and long-sleeved. Men should wear jackets or long-sleeved shirts with long pants.

Do Saudi citizens have to pay for health care?

The government’s policy is to offer medical services free for all citizens. Each individual citizen has the right, at no cost whatsoever, to all levels of health care, from emergency first aid to sophisticated transplant surgery. In addition, there are numerous special programs for the disabled and the elderly.

What is the shopping like?

In Saudi Arabia, shopping is a form of entertainment and should be embarked upon in this spirit, especially in the souks where there is so much to delight the senses and tempt the purse. Prices are not fixed, so you will be expected to negotiate, a skill much prized by the Arabs. All of the big names you see at home are also available in Saudi Arabia such as Next, Benetton, French Connections, BHS and Marks and Spencers.

Electronic goods, cameras and watches can often be good value, especially in the markets, but the main attractions for most visitors are naturally the antiques, traditional items and of course the gold jewellery.

What time zone is the Kingdom in?

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is on Greenwich Mean Time plus three hours. The Kingdom does not adjust to daylight saving time. The UAE is Greenwich Mean Time plus four hours.

What is the local currency?

Saudi Arabia’s unit of currency is the riyal. The dirham is used in the UAE and the dinar in Bahrain. There are no restrictions on currency exchange. You can change money at the banks and transfer funds overseas. Major credit cards are accepted at most large hotels, some restaurants and the bigger stores. Don’t make a trip to the souk without cash. Always take your iqama with you if you intend to change money, pay with a traveller’s cheque or use your credit card.

Banks do business from 08.30 hrs to 12.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 19.00 hrs Saturday to Wednesday, and 08.30 to 12.00 hrs on Thursday.

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