Unveiling Saudi Arabia: A Personal Guide from a Nurse and Recruiter
Embarking on the journey of emigration to Saudi Arabia is a unique experience. As a nurse who has lived through the challenges and charms of this path, I deeply understand its complexity. In this article, I provide straightforward answers to the most common questions, based on the duality of my experience as a recruiter and candidate. However, I recognize that each journey is unique, just as are the doubts and concerns of each individual. Therefore, I am available to personally clarify any points that may remain unclear. After all, the journey to Saudi Arabia is personal, but confidence in your decision is key to the success of this grand adventure. Do not hesitate to contact me directly via email at a.forte@vitaeprofessionals.com. I am here to guide you every step of the way.
1. How much will I earn working as a nurse in Saudi Arabia?
When it comes to determining salary, several factors come into play such as the hospital you will work at, your speciality area, years of experience, qualifications, and nationality. Although we cannot provide exact numbers before you receive a job offer, we can offer a salary estimate and give you an idea of your potential savings for the year. However, when evaluating the offered salary, it's important to note that it will be TAX-FREE and that the benefits offered alongside the salary, such as accommodation, transportation, health insurance, two flights per year, contract and signing bonuses, up to 63 days of paid vacation, etc., allow for a savings capacity of around 90 to 95% of your monthly salary. There are also opportunities to work overtime, which is paid at 150%. Typically, 4 extra shifts per month can amount to at least 1200 euros extra. Contact a.forte@vitaeprofessionals for more information.
2. Is the salary really tax-free?
The answer is simple - YES. This is one of the main benefits of working in Saudi Arabia – what you earn is what you take home. However, it is important to be aware that you may have tax obligations, especially if you continue to have income sources in Portugal. It is crucial to change your tax residence to Saudi Arabia. Besides not having to declare your income in Portugal (if you have no income sources there), you may also enjoy additional benefits such as VAT exemptions on certain products purchased in Portugal.
3. Accommodation: Where will I live?
Most candidates are housed in complexes that offer recreational services such as swimming pools, gyms, cafes, and lounges. The apartments are fully furnished and equipped with everything you need. Although candidates share accommodation, each person has their own bedroom and private bathroom. The hospital always strives to keep people of the same nationality together to ease the adaptation process.
4. What benefits are there besides the tax-free salary?
The benefits offered with these contracts make them highly attractive:
Fully furnished accommodation and free utilities or a housing allowance (no bills)
Opportunities for on-site and distance training at internationally recognized universities
Merit increase upon contract renewal
Promotion opportunities
Overtime available, paid at 150%
45-63 days of paid vacation depending on the employer
Due to these benefits, candidates can save a significant portion of their salaries and enjoy a good work-life balance.
5. Can I transfer my salary home?
In general, your salary will be deposited monthly into your local bank account in Saudi Riyals (SR). Your local account can be managed online through a banking app that allows for low-cost transactions. We also know several strategies to help you optimize transfers. Speak with our team. Having gone through this experience myself, I admit there are some challenges that are part of the adventure of exploring unknown lands, making this experience unique. One of these is the account contract signing, as most local banks still issue contracts in Arabic. Two tips: (1) Do not underestimate the importance of making local friends. Arabs are extremely welcoming and will be the first to help you with these bureaucratic processes. Bring a native Arabic-speaking friend with you when opening an account. (2) Use GPT chat. The hospital will provide logistical support for opening an account but will not be with you at the time of contract signing.
6. How much experience do I need to apply?
Most hospitals require at least two years of experience. However, some hospitals we recruit for already accept candidates with only one year of hospital experience.
7. Can I drive in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, you can drive as long as you have a valid international driving licence. Most people opt to use the free transportation provided by the hospital or use Uber or Careem. Given the low cost of fuel in Saudi Arabia, taking a taxi even for long distances is quite economical. It is also common for people to use a driver, usually someone they build trust with over time and contact directly for transport. This mode of transport makes travel even more affordable.
8. What if I don’t adapt?
Realistically speaking, and having been through the experience myself, adaptation as a nurse working in Saudi Arabia is not immediate but gradual. It is important to be aware that human nature leads us to initially struggle with and sometimes reject realities very different from our own. Adaptation to the new reality typically takes about 3 months, though for some it may be much quicker. We always try to manage our candidates' expectations and support them through this process to ensure that the decision to stay or leave is as informed as possible. However, if your decision is to resign, we advise that you do so according to the terms of your contract and fulfil the notice period (usually 60 days). It is important to mention that Saudi Arabia has a strong expatriate community, which significantly reduces the feeling of isolation compared to other international markets. You will not have difficulty making new friends, but you can always use online platforms such as InterNations or Meetup to connect with expatriates or individuals with similar interests.
9. Can I immigrate with my family?
Yes, it is possible to immigrate with your family, although this decision comes with additional challenges compared to individual immigration. In many cases, the visa is limited to a 'single visa,' except for more specialized management and leadership positions.
However, it is possible to bring direct dependents with you. It is crucial to be aware that expenses related to health insurance, education, and visa costs for dependents will be the candidate's responsibility. If you cannot opt for employer-provided accommodation, a 'housing and transport allowance' is granted to help offset these costs.
Situations where one candidate is a healthcare professional and the other is not may lead to limitations in accommodating both in the hospital-provided complex. A situation that facilitates logistics occurs when both spouses are nurses/healthcare professionals. In these cases, even if each has an individual visa without family benefits, hospitals usually allocate housing in a villa or individual residence, allowing the family to stay together.
Ready to embark on this journey together?
Send your updated CV in English, along with a photo and a brief summary of your professional experience over the past 24 months, to a.forte@vitaeprofessionals.com.
