Job Discussion Forums

Paul in Saudi · Joined: 03 Mar 2003 Posts: 404 Location: Doha, Qatar

I hope this counts as job-related.

So my house is a mess of packed boxes. I have a ticket to leave very early Saturday morning. What could go wrong?

The Saudis refuse to issue me an exit-only visa. Although I sold my car almost two weeks ago, the transfer is not yet on their computers. Further, since we have a Thursday-Friday weekend, I cannot do much about it until Saturday.

So I am stuck. How ... what is the word? Awkward, yes how awkward.

How ought I to proceed?

Cleopatra · Posted: Thu Jul 10, 2008 5:30 am Post subject:

I have only one word of advice for you: Wasta.

Do you have any? At all? Do you know someone who knows someone whose brother in law works in the relevant ministry(ies)? Because aside from having someone pulling some strings for you - and to be honest it may be too late even for that - I think you may have to resign yourself to changing your travel plans. Unless you have major wasta, it's very hard to see how you can get an exit visa stamped in your passport over the weekend.

If I were you, I'd phone the airline and re-book. Very inconvenient, and possibly expensive too, but unfortunately I don't see that you have many options.

Paul in Saudi · Joined: 03 Mar 2003 Posts: 404 Location: Doha, Qatar

I have rebooked for a week later. Perhaps this will clear up sooner than that. Or not.

Nothing can be done this weekend. I am very pleased I did not upset anyone while resigning. Now I need their help.

johnslat · Posted: Thu Jul 10, 2008 1:15 pm Post subject:

Dear Paul in Saudi,

Ah yes - the wisdom in not burning your bridges ahead of you.
Hope it all works out well.

Regards,
John

Paul in Saudi · Joined: 03 Mar 2003 Posts: 404 Location: Doha, Qatar

OK, the visa is ready. I am leaving Friday night on the Air France redeye.

BUT in my week of hanging around, I have developed at least three really exceptional job leads! It worked out real good. (gooder? Whatever, I am off duty.)