Job Discussion Forums

Umm 'Abdil-Wahhaab · Joined: 23 Jun 2009 Posts: 54

I have a relative interested in working in Saudi but he is 60 years old this year. Is there any possibility of getting hired? I believe he is over the legal age for getting hired in Saudi, but is this written in stone or up to the employer?

With his minimal qualifications he would like to work at a language center or the like, but does not want to work with kids.

Any information/advice?

freesoul · Posted: Sun Jul 05, 2009 9:42 pm Post subject:

It IS written on 'government' stones, but I guess it won't be hard to find a job in private centres. He just can't be that picky in choosing his employer.

Mia Xanthi · Posted: Mon Jul 06, 2009 12:08 am Post subject:

I have worked with many people over 60 in KSA, and some even north of 70. At one point, our compound looked more like a home for the aged, although the university has recently hired a few more youngsters to balance things out. I'd say your friend's chances are good. Tell him to forget about the UAE, though....the new laws about age there are very strict.

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

That's very encouraging. I think I shall leave KSA as my alternative to a nursing home for littleoldladies. We all need something to look forward to in our advancing years.

Marquess · Joined: 05 Feb 2009 Posts: 165

I suspect most of those old boys got the jobs when they were a bit younger and just stayed. Getting a new job when you are over 55 is tough.

esltech · Joined: 15 Jun 2009 Posts: 11

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

Face lift. Too expensive for me so I just iron mine weekly. Teeth are often the giveaway. Make sure they don't fall out when you smile... superglue works wonders.

esltech · Joined: 15 Jun 2009 Posts: 11

Thanks for your insights, LOL.

Are there any serious suggestions?

Citizenkane · Joined: 14 Jun 2009 Posts: 234 Location: Xanadu

Marquess · Joined: 05 Feb 2009 Posts: 165

Sadly I think it means getting a job at a place that can bend the rules and the only reason they will do that is because they have trouble getting teachers. If they have trouble getting teachers it is for a reason and best avoided.

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

Sorry esltech. I didn't mean to be facetious.
Seriously-- I have found that stressing the benefits of being experienced as a result , in terms of how much more in control I am of students, how more culturally aware I am as a result of travel, raising a family etc. That really does help. The ME values maturity - you just need to focus on that in your cv and interview. I think employers get concerned about health issues - if you are fit and healthy - stress that too.

scot47 · Joined: 10 Jan 2003 Posts: 15343

Those over 60 have little chance of getting hired. If you can get in before 60, you might get to stay.

Note that some employers measure in Hegira years. 60 lunar (ie Hegira) is 58 and a bit solar (ie Gregorian).

esltech · Joined: 15 Jun 2009 Posts: 11

Thanks for all the advice.

So one who is over 60 probably won't be considered for a worthwhile place, regardless of how healthy, energetic, and experienced?

No need to apologize, LOL; I appreciated the humor. :-)

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

I would say that once you are 60, probably the only factor that would get you in would be if you had spent the last 30+ years teaching in exactly the same environment that you are applying for... in other words - in the Gulf teaching Arabic speakers.

VS

Stephen Jones · Joined: 21 Feb 2003 Posts: 4124