Job Discussion Forums

[gjeo]

That sounds interesting. I am not qualified to teach Maths or Science at school. Can teach ESL. Can you send more details? Any opportunity in colleges/universities?

[windstar]

How does visa process worK? I have got an offer too but it says higher authorities should approve and visa will be issued in my home country. Any ideas?

[gjeo]

I believe we need to wait till the university sends a 'number' that we could refer to, when we approach the Embassy at our home country. The certificates have to be verified by the HRD and MEA as well, before we submit them at ther Embassy for approval. Which country do you belong to?

[windstar]

I am from canada but currently teaching in the ME. I was just wondering if it could be finalized in this little country.

[gjeo]

Sorry, I have no idea about that. I think they need the certificates approved by the Embassy in your country. But if you have already done that for your present job, things may be easier for you. I hope someone here would help you with the right information.

[se_bocere]

First of all, I work at KAU. The salary increase has been approved and it really doesn't matter if you have a BA, MA, or PhD, since all the salaries will be the same.

The only thing that I would watch out for is your years of experience. They mention that two years of non-university experience will count as one year of experience. If the working period is less than 365 days (or the hijri equivalent) then it will not count as a year - even if it is an academic year. Additionally, no one will receive a letter detailing their salary until you arrive, so you had better get all your experience certificates in working order (i.e. attested by the Saudi embassy).

Once you arrive, be prepared to not be met by anyone at the airport - even though they say that they will meet you. I would recommend staying at Jeddah Plaza for the first month or so, because you will not get your housing allowance, or furniture allowance, until you have signed your contact, and more importantly, until you have received an iqama. Therefore, bring plenty of money beforehand; at least 10,000 SAR should be fine.

The working hours mentioned are 18+, but I work only 16 - if that much. The hours are pretty relaxed. Additionally, no one really knows what they are doing here - teaching wise - because the syllabus is very disorganized - e.g. the EAP book is completely pointless and their general EFL books are too difficult for most of the students. Plus, the students never bring their books. Most of the people have power trips here; especially the Egyptians who have PhDs that don't speak English very well, or those who have PhDs from non-western countries - the rest - who are just as ridiculous. *Sorry if I have offended anyone*

Other than that, I would consider another University to be honest. The only benefit to being here is the close proximity to Mecca and Madinah - which is why I am still at KAU. Next year I am leaving, but I would recommend KAU for anyone looking for a first experience in Saudi Arabia, or as a stepping stone to another job.

[gjeo]

Thank you very much for all that information. That's exactly what I was looking for. I have a few more doubts which I will IM you, if you don't mind.

[windstar]

Thanks for your valuable information. I have one simple question though. I have worked at a university for straight 8 years and a college for another year in addition to other teaching positions at different institutions. Do you know if I should provide letters of experience from each and every one of these institutions?