Job Discussion Forums

[ibnAdam]

Good day everyone. I realize that there are certain countries in which it is more conducive to be local while searching for a job. Is Saudi Arabia one of those countries? Is it better to travel there first when seeking employment? I am a certified teacher in Special Education and Mathematics. I also have Middle East experience and a Graduate Degree. What are my chances of settling there in hopes of finding something? As a Muslim, I would probably be able to get a visa for Umrah and continue to renew until I could find work. Thank you kindly for you advice. Have a blessed day!

[Bindair Dundat]

[ibnAdam]

For someone that has a pure intent to offer some advice, I believe this was enough information. I am a certified teacher in Mathematics and Special Education at the Secondary level with experience teaching in the Middle East. I also have a graduate degree in the field of education. I want to know the probabilities of landing a job in the field of education with those qualifications. Moreover, would it be more conducive to look for the job while already in Saudi. InshaAllah, that's enough info for someone to respond with a general answer. In relation to making Umrah, Muslims have been doing business and trading on their way to umrah for over a thousand years. In fact this was the custom of Arabs to go to Umrah with both religious and economic intentions. The business and trade they did during their trip impacted many cultures worldwide. So there is no religious conflict as Islam recognizes the need to sustain oneself, but requires that a person gives Allah his rights as well. In terms of Saudi law, there is no problem with looking for a job while on Umrah but one must switch his visa before beginning his employment.

PS: There is no obligation to respond if you are not so inclined. May you all have a peaceful and blessed day.

[Bindair Dundat]

[ibnAdam]

Sir, my exact words were "continue to renew until I could find work." I believe the meaning of "until" is clear. I'm not exactly sure what you mean by "snotty"; however I at least understand that it is in reference to a person's character. It is unfortunate if you have the impression of ill or poor character on my part. Indeed there is a cultural difference between the two of us, hence that can sometimes lead to misunderstandings. Perhaps that is the case here. I have no impertinent intentions towards you, but rather I am grateful for the assistance and advice of all those who take the time to address my questions with a "reply post". Thank you kindly.-ibn Adam

[usool]

Snotty means you come across as an arrogant *beep*. I second BD's assertian. It is a cultural difference perhaps, aliens like you need sign language to make themselves understood. I suggest you take a basic course in good manners to compliment your other qualifications.

[ibnAdam]

If there was a rude, vulgar or improper statement made on my part, please PM me. I do not believe the direction of this discussion is beneficial for the readers. Thank you. Take Care.

[Bindair Dundat]

[Bindair Dundat]

[veiledsentiments]

I hate to step in here and get picked off in the crossfire.

But, to get to a possibly more helpful idea - one question occurred to me - and I'm not sure that anyone that posts on here could answer. Since most of us (with a few exceptions) are westerners and non-Muslims, the possibility of doing Umrah and job hunting wouldn't be an option. We do have a couple of people who regularly post here who are involved in hiring at their places, if they are at a computer, hopefully they can come in.

What I wonder is --- if you are hired in country, does that become a 'local hire' job with the loss of the benefits that 'foreign hire' teachers get. It is certainly true in Egypt as I was 'local hired' there for a semester - got a full salary, but no flat, ticket, health care, etc. This could be crucial for someone with wife and children.

VS

[Saudi4Ever]

Usool I am very shocked to hear you respond to your muslim brother like that. When I first read this thread I thought perhaops non muslim expats had a problem with muslim expats...until you chimed in.

I dont see what was snotty or ill mannered in ibn adams post. I it has been to quiet on the board and you guys just couldnt wait for the opportunity to pounce on your latest victim.

[Cleopatra]

So far as I know you are not supposed to seek employment on an Umrah visa, though - like a lot of things which you're not supposed to do in the K of SA - doubtless it still goes on.

As regards 'local' vs 'international' hire, the distinction is not as clear-cut as the terms suggest. You can still get an 'international' contract if hired in-country - it depends on what deal you cut with your employer. For married women, a local hire can be better than international, because it is more flexible and they can still benefit from their husband's flight allowances etc. I'm sure deals vary from employer to employer, but I think by law in Saudi Arabia you have to be provided with health cover, as well as with an accomodation allowance, if not an actual housing unit.

[Bindair Dundat]

[dmb]

This board is beginning to rival the Korean one