The Middle East is a part of the world that everyone has heard of but not many really know a lot about, and with widespread media coverage portraying this part of the world as dangerous and unfriendly, many Westerners are understandably apprehensive about visiting, let alone living and working here.
However, there’s an abundance on offer in this unique region; from vast sun-kissed deserts to some of the tallest, modern cities in the world, and cuisines to delight every kind of palate. Aside from these pastimes, there are also real opportunities to gain top-level experience and forge a solid career, all whilst earning (and saving) a lot of money. More than anything, it’s a chance to try something completely different.
So, whatever you’ve heard about the Middle East, here are 7 things to, and not to, expect when coming to work one of our roles in the Middle East:
1. All-expenses paid
And we mean all expenses!
With the roles we recruit for in the Middle East, everything from your flights to your accommodation and working visa are all paid for you – including a fully expensed stay at a 5* hotel in London whilst we process your working visa application.
Then, once you land, we provide your uniform – often luxury designer clothing if working front of house! Depending on the client, there will often be a private chauffeur to drive you to and from work each day. You’ll also receive full medical cover and a very good, tax-free salary. So basically, everything you earn, you keep!
2. Luxury Accommodation
You will often be living in private, European compounds – basically, a mini-city with swimming pools, gyms, bars and some of the compounds even have a cinema. Each employee lives in a brand-new apartment or villa, with state-of-the-art facilities, which you’re allowed to furnish as you wish once you arrive. There are often no clothing laws within these compounds.
3. A Growing European Community
More and more people are coming to work in the Middle East, being drawn by the quality of living and doing something completely different – it’s nothing like how it’s often portrayed in the media. The rapidly growing community of Expats, Europeans and Westerners will help you to feel at home when you first arrive and also give you a chance to make friends with people from all around the world. There are also plenty of Facebook groups to join and meet other Europeans.
4. Activities Outside the Compound
There is often the opportunity to travel and visit other parts of the Middle East during your time off. With a vast array of culture, cuisine and creativity on your doorstep, you’ll find new experiences which just aren’t on offer in the Western world – such as dune riding!
5. Help and Guidance Every Step of the Way
No matter who you are, or where you’ve been, it’s always daunting to try something different, especially in a new country. Your managers and colleagues will often have experience in guiding people when they first arrive and will be able to help with everything from getting settled into your apartment to understanding cultural etiquette and best-practises in the Middle East. As long as you’re sensible and respectful, like anywhere in the world, then you’ll have the time of your life.
6. A Great Addition to the CV
Aside from making amazing memories and superb money, you’ll also be adding invaluable experience to your CV. Although everyone is encouraged to show their personalities, the standards of work expected are incredibly high and you’ll be working with some of the best hospitality professionals in the world. This is a unique opportunity to experience an extremely high-profile environment in some of the most glamorous locations, which you simply can’t do anywhere else.
7. Something for Everyone!
As this region develops, there will be more and more opportunities for experienced Europeans hospitality professionals to relocate and join a VIP family based anywhere in the region. We work with a handful of clients across multiple countries, often recruiting for a variety of positions, so there really is something for everyone. Whether you just want to try something new and go for a short fixed-term contract or want to build a longer-term stable future for yourself, there are new projects and positions opening of daily – so contact us today to discuss your options further.
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