Job Discussion Forums

[nomad soul]

Since there's a thread on which Saudi for-profit contracting companies staff teachers and where, this thread could be a platform for discussions on the pros-n-cons of working specifically for [fill in company name] and these companies in general.

[nomad soul]

Before accepting a job offer (or applying), always research potential employers/sponsors. Also, don't base your decision on the hopes of finding that "one" positive comment out of many lousy reviews.

[sicklyman]

can't think of any cons for working for Al Hoty. They've done everything they ever said they would in the four contracts with them I've completed. 95% of staff are friendly and helpful, and I can usually get a response from email and phone calls. No complaints considering what other contracting companies have put my colleagues through.

[Lord T]

The hiring process for my last direct-hire position took over 4 months, included a 90 minute face to face interview, a criminal background check, a medical in London, another medical in Riyadh. and my qualifications being authenticated
by the FCO and then the Saudi Embassy in London.

The hiring process for my last contracting position consisted of a 5-minute phone call and my sending copies of my qualifications by e-mail attachment.
The time span from the initial phone call to my arriving in Saudi was 7 days.

That said, I'd still recommend the direct-hire route, if you are serious about what you do.

[nomad soul]

Lord T:

I agree that direct hire is preferable for various reasons. But for clarification, you described the differences between the visa types rather than hiring practices. Your direct-hire situation entailed a proper employment visa (leading to a residency ID), while the company that got you there in 7 days utilized a business visa or work visit visa. However, not all Saudi contracting companies bring expat teachers over on these quickie visas.

[Lord T]