If you’re looking for a job in the gulf country : Keep away from these blunders 2024

Gulf countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain have long been popular destinations for job seekers from across the globe. With promises of tax-free income, a higher standard of living, and lucrative opportunities in various sectors, particularly construction, healthcare, hospitality, and IT, these countries attract a substantial number of expatriates every year. However, the dream of working in a Gulf country can quickly turn into a nightmare if not approached with caution and proper research. 

 

In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes job seekers make when aiming to work in Gulf countries. We’ll back this up with real-life incidents to highlight the importance of caution. We’ll also provide actionable advice to ensure your job search is successful and secure.

1. Common Blunders Job Seekers Make

• • a) Not Researching the Employer or Country

One of the most critical mistakes job seekers make is not thoroughly researching the employer and the country where they intend to work. Gulf countries may share geographical proximity, but their labour laws, work culture, and expectations vary significantly.

For instance, a job offer from the UAE might seem attractive, but if you haven’t researched the company’s reputation or the living conditions in the city, you may find yourself in a challenging situation. Understanding the cost of living, housing, healthcare, and transport in your destination city can save you from disappointment later.

Real Incident:

A healthcare professional from India accepted a job offer as a nurse in Saudi Arabia. The salary was enticing, and she was eager to start. However, after arriving, she realised that the work conditions were far from what had been promised. The hospital was understaffed, and she was required to work 12-hour shifts without adequate breaks. Had she researched the hospital and read reviews from previous employees, she would have been better prepared or could have chosen a more reputable employer.

• • b) Accepting Job Offers Without a Valid Contract

Many job seekers, in their excitement to land a position, skip the critical step of securing a valid written contract before moving to a Gulf country. This can lead to severe exploitation, as verbal promises are not legally binding. Without a contract that clearly states your job role, salary, benefits, and working conditions, you’re at the mercy of your employer.

Real Incident:

A construction worker from Nepal accepted a job offer in Qatar, excited by the promise of free accommodation and a good salary. Upon arrival, he was made to sign a different contract with reduced pay and no mention of the accommodation that had been promised. With little recourse, he found himself trapped in a difficult situation, struggling to make ends meet and unable to return home due to high costs.

• • c) Falling Victim to Recruitment Scams

Recruitment scams are prevalent, especially in regions where there is high demand for foreign workers. Scammers take advantage of job seekers’ desperation by posing as legitimate recruitment agencies or employers. They may demand upfront fees for visa processing, job placement, or other services, only to disappear once the money is transferred.

Real Incident:

A young man from Pakistan was offered a high-paying job in Dubai through a recruitment agency that seemed legitimate. The agency asked for a substantial fee to cover visa processing and documentation. After paying the fee, he received a fake visa and plane ticket. When he tried to contact the agency for clarification, all communication channels had been cut off, and he had lost a significant amount of money.

• • d) Lack of Cultural Understanding

Each Gulf country has its own set of cultural norms and expectations, deeply rooted in Islamic traditions. Not understanding or respecting these cultural norms can lead to difficulties in the workplace and in daily life. From dress codes to interactions between genders, job seekers need to be aware of how to conduct themselves appropriately.

Real Incident:

An expatriate from the Philippines moved to Oman to work in hospitality. She wasn’t fully aware of the country’s conservative dress code and often dressed inappropriately, which caused her discomfort at work and attracted negative attention. After receiving warnings from her employer, she realised the importance of blending into the local culture and adhering to the societal norms of the country.

• • e) Ignoring Legal Procedures

Ignoring or being unaware of legal procedures can lead to severe consequences, including deportation, fines, or imprisonment. Gulf countries have strict labour laws, and it’s crucial to follow the correct legal channels when seeking employment. This includes obtaining the proper work visa, understanding contract terms, and adhering to the rules regarding residency and employment.

Real Incident:

An engineer from Egypt was offered a job in Kuwait. Instead of obtaining a proper work visa, his employer advised him to enter the country on a tourist visa and then convert it. Unfortunately, this plan backfired when local authorities caught wind of the illegal arrangement. The engineer was deported, and his employer faced penalties. This situation could have been avoided had the worker insisted on following the correct legal process from the beginning.

• • f) Mismanaging Finances

While many expatriates go to Gulf countries to earn higher incomes, mismanaging finances can lead to a vicious cycle of debt. The cost of living in Gulf cities can be high, and many job seekers underestimate the expenses associated with accommodation, food, and transportation. Additionally, sending money back home while trying to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in the host country can become challenging.

Real Incident:

A teacher from Sri Lanka moved to Dubai for a better salary, but she did not anticipate the high cost of living. Between sending money back to her family and paying for her accommodation and daily expenses, she found herself struggling to make ends meet. Without proper financial planning, she ended up accruing debt, which became a source of stress and hindered her ability to save for the future.

2. Real-Life Incidents: Lessons from Others’ Mistakes

In addition to the individual cases mentioned above, there are countless stories of expatriates facing challenges in Gulf countries due to avoidable mistakes. Here are a few more examples that underscore the importance of preparation:

• • a) The Case of the Fraudulent Offer Letter

An IT professional from Nigeria received an offer letter from a company in Oman, which seemed too good to be true. The salary was far above the industry standard, and the job description was vague. Despite some red flags, he accepted the offer and paid for his visa processing.

When he arrived in Oman, he discovered that the company didn’t exist, and the job offer had been a scam. He was stranded with no job, no money, and limited options for returning home.

• • b) The Struggle of Unmet Expectations

A hospitality worker from Bangladesh moved to Kuwait after being promised a managerial position at a luxury hotel. Upon arrival, he was assigned a lower-level job as a cleaner. The salary was far less than what had been agreed upon, and he was forced to work long hours with no additional compensation.

He had little recourse as he had signed a contract in a language he didn’t fully understand. This experience taught him the importance of ensuring all employment agreements are clear and transparent before making the move.

• • c) The Language Barrier Dilemma

A mechanical engineer from the Philippines accepted a job offer in Saudi Arabia, confident in his technical skills but unaware of the significant language barrier he would face. The workplace primarily communicated in Arabic, and although English was spoken by some, the lack of fluency in Arabic hindered his ability to integrate with his team and perform his duties effectively.

This created friction with his employer and colleagues, making the work environment uncomfortable and less productive.

3. Tips for a Successful Job Search in the Gulf

To ensure a smooth transition and avoid the mistakes that others have made, here are some practical tips for a successful job search in Gulf countries:

• • a) Do Your Research

Thoroughly research the country you are moving to. Understand its labour laws, work culture, and the city where you’ll be based. Research your prospective employer by reading reviews from current or former employees on platforms like Glassdoor. Verify the company’s registration with the local authorities to ensure it’s legitimate.

• • b) Insist on a Written Contract

Never accept a job offer based solely on verbal agreements. Ensure that you have a written contract that clearly outlines your job role, salary, benefits, and other conditions. Review the contract carefully, and if possible, have a lawyer or legal expert look over it before you sign.

• • c) Beware of Recruitment Scams

Avoid recruitment agencies or employers that ask for upfront payments for visas, job placement, or other services. Always verify the authenticity of the job offer and the recruitment agency. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

• • d) Learn About the Culture

Take time to learn about the cultural norms of the Gulf country where you’ll be working. Understanding the dress code, religious practices, and social customs will help you integrate more easily into the workplace and avoid unintentional offences.

e) Follow the Legal Processes

Always follow the correct legal procedures for obtaining a work visa and residence permit. Do not rely on shortcuts or illegal means to enter or work in a Gulf country, as this could lead to serious consequences.

f) Plan Your Finances

Create a budget that takes into account the cost of living in your destination country. Be mindful of your expenses and avoid accumulating debt. Prioritise saving and setting aside emergency funds to ensure financial stability while working abroad.

4.Conclusion: Be Informed and Stay Safe

Working in a Gulf country can be an incredible opportunity for professional growth and financial gain, but it is not without its challenges.

The stories of those who have gone before serve as a reminder of the importance of careful planning and preparation. By avoiding the common blunders discussed in this article, job seekers can protect themselves from potential hardships and make the most of their experience abroad.The key to a successful job search in the Gulf lies in being informed, vigilant, and prepared. Research the employer, understand the local culture, secure a proper contract, and follow legal procedures.

Avoid shortcuts and always verify the legitimacy of any offers or agencies you work with. By doing so, you can minimise the risks and maximise the rewards of your Gulf job adventure.The global job market is competitive, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of accepting the first opportunity that comes your way.

However, it’s crucial to take the time to assess each step carefully. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a first-time expatriate, approaching your Gulf job search with caution and awareness will help ensure a positive and fulfilling experience.