Job Discussion Forums

littleoldlady · Joined: 06 Apr 2009 Posts: 286 Location: knitting heaven

Has anyone left a 2 year contract after a year? If so, what problems have there been? Thanks for any information and advise.

Cleopatra · Posted: Wed Apr 08, 2009 6:10 pm Post subject:

I haven't done it, nor do I know anyone who has (two year contracts being comparatively rare). However, I'd imagine the situation would be similar to breaking any kind of contract: ie you stand to forfeit benefits such as flights home and end of service bonuses (which can amount to a lot) and your employers may well refuse to give you an NOC. Of course, they can do that even if you fulfill your contract, but are more likely to do so if you break it.

Mia Xanthi · Posted: Wed Apr 08, 2009 6:30 pm Post subject:

Some places have a clause in the contract stating that you have to give your employer 2 months' pay if you leave without notice. This is why some people run out on contracts - just pack up and leave in the night. I think that in most cases, if you give adequate notice, you are not severely penalized, but you still might lose out on a ticket home and the end of service gratuity.

cmp45 · Joined: 17 Aug 2004 Posts: 1475 Location: KSA

balqis · Joined: 30 Jul 2006 Posts: 373

You may not be given a NOC - No Objection Certificate needed if you decide to return to Arabia. Not a rule, some place may still issue one to your name, some may not. I experienced both treatments in Arabia.

Try to negotiate a one-year contract! It is always wiser to do it, especially with remote locations like Taif where sometimes a day may drag as if it was a month. They may agree if they are in dire need for teachers.

Taif is famous for its roses and perfume, mild and moderate climate and beautiful landscape - this I know from my students and my interest in perfume. Many Saudis have there their ''datchas'' which is seasonal cottages just for rest.
I was once interviewed for a uni there two eyars ago, a new one, set up by Beiruth University, or at least with their academic guidance. I don't think I remember any thread here revealing anything on Taif uni.

If possible, try to negotiate a one-year contract.
good luck,
balqis

littleoldlady · Joined: 06 Apr 2009 Posts: 286 Location: knitting heaven

Thank you to everyone. Balqis, the information you have provided is very useful, especially the bit about the possible genesis of the university and the fact that the days might drag. I need to be very busy and also want to be able to speak Arabic. I chose Taif because of the climate but maybe I need to think again.

balqis · Joined: 30 Jul 2006 Posts: 373

Nach meiner meinung a soul with which you can communicate is a sine qua non condition for survival there.
Books and movies can help, learning Arabic too, but all only to a degree, especially if you have a more subtle subjectivity, which is particular about converstion.
Yet finding a friendly soul may be a true challenge. I was once in a situation in Arabia where I had to keep all my thoughts and perceptions for myself and could talk to no one. And it wasn't Taif but - as it were - cosmopolitan Riyadh.

Also, how long is your contract makes a substantial difference. ''Just a year'' can be managed more esily by your mind and the length of endurance thether your personality is capable of weaving.

balqis