Work in the Middle East
We select the best doctors, medics and nurses from around the world
Working in the Middle East
The countries of the Middle East such as Saudi, UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar are investing heavily in their medical systems. Many of the leaders in the region have an inspiring vision for their healthcare systems and want them to become amongst the best in the world. Therefore, they are investing heavily in the medical sector particularly medical research and cutting edge technology. This is very evident in the hospitals and clinics where standards are extremely high, with internationally trained medical staff. Overseas professionals are made to feel welcome and rewarded with a lavish lifestyle. The countries of the middle east acknowledges their important contribution to the high-quality reputation of the medical system.
Why choose the Middle East?
There are many reasons why medics choose to move to the Middle East. Amongst them, are lucrative financial benefits that may include:
Living in the Middle East
Many of the Middle Eastern countries offer a fantastic lifestyle to all demographics. The year-long sunshine, crystal clear waters and a wide range of outdoor activities and interests, means there’s something to suit everyone’s taste in cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The UAE, in particular, is also home to spectacular theme parks, luxury hotels, global sporting events and world-famous concerts. Many of the countries in the Middle East enjoy multicultural cuisine and the international workforce has left an indelible mark on the wide choice of food. Dubai, Abu Dhabi (UAE) and Riyadh (KSA) are amongst the most progressive states in the Middle East and provide a society where security is high and crime rates low. The official language is Arabic but English is widely spoken and Islam is the main religion.
The Medical System
Since the formation of the healthcare system in the Middle East, it has always been a top priority for the government with respect to infrastructure and the service provided to patients. There is an aspiration to provide universal medical access, which is well-funded and resourced. There is a focus on importing the latest technological advances and state-of-the-art equipment. The system comprises large hospitals, specialist facilities and a network of clinics with a large number of expat staff and expat jobs available. The medical and hospital facilities are expanding at a fast pace with substantial financial investment in the latest equipment and world-class facilities such as the modern and stunningly designed Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi (UAE). There is an increasing demand and focus on recruiting a wide range of specialist roles.
Accommodation
The countries in the Middle East have an amazing range of modern architecture and this is certainly true of the housing and accommodation options. Choices range from modern apartments with huge windows and light-filled rooms, to villas in the suburbs in leafy compounds. Facilities can include access to a swimming pool and gym. Generally speaking, while Abu Dhabi is slightly smaller, cultural, and more family-orientated, Dubai is vibrant larger-than-life and buzzing with nightlife options. Most of the cities like Riyadh and Jeddah offer excellent international schools.
Low Tax
The financial benefits of living in the Middle East can be extraordinary. Not only there is an income tax in the UAE, there is no national insurance, contributions but the standard of living is still higher than other developed countries. This enables many expats to make significant cost savings while maintaining a well sustained lifestyle. Overwhelmingly many who work in the region within the healthcare sector have the experience of a lifetime and return home financially secure. Any other taxes in the Middle East are also very low, such as VAT which is currently set at just 15% in Saudi Arabia. This enables many expats to save significant amounts of money while living here. Many who work in the region have the experience of a lifetime and return home financially secure.
Relocation Packages
Highly skilled overseas healthcare staff who choose to come to the Middle East are supported very well practically and are offered lucrative relocation packages. On top of your base pay and private health cover, packages may include accommodation, subsidized private schooling for your children, travel or utility allowances and a bonus scheme on completion of contract. Packages vary greatly, and the level of package you are offered very much depends on your employer and the skills and qualifications that you bring to the role.
Working Arrangements
The average working week for overseas medical staff in the region is set by the Ministry of Health to between 40-48 hours per week. You can also expect a generous annual leave allowance. Expats can expect a good work/life balance, and the expat population is very welcoming to newcomers. In the month of Ramadan, the working day is shorter as hours are reduced to help Muslims to fast during daylight hours. Friday is the Muslim day of rest and prayer time, therefore the weekend is on Friday and Saturday in some countries such as Saudi and Bahrain. In the UAE the weekend has now moved to Saturday and Sunday.
A Typical Working Day
Hospitals and clinics are patient, service-led. Flexible and out of hours opening times are used to facilitate a choice of a flexible appointment time. There is a high ratio between the staff per patient. There is generally a very generous staff-to-patient ratio and medical staff work shifts and share the responsibility for the on-call roster. Any overtime is dependent on your role and place of work, and any additional payments will be outlined as part of your total package within your employment-contract.
Medical Establishments
Healthcare in the Middle East is recognized as being among the finest globally. In Saudi Arabia, for example, there are approximately 28.7 physicians per 10,000 residents, reflecting the region’s commitment to accessible and quality healthcare. Saudi Arabia boasts over 500 hospitals and thousands of clinics, including internationally accredited facilities. The government continues to invest heavily in the healthcare sector through its Vision 2030 initiative, with plans to expand state-of-the-art medical centers, advanced specialist facilities, and digital healthcare solutions to meet the growing needs of the population.
Working Culture
The working culture in the Middle East is based on team work, collaboration and colleague support. With set working hours and a generous staff-to-patient ratio, patients can get high quality care and attention while you are more likely to enjoy a good work/life balance.
Qualification Requirements
Middle East has very strict policies for the minimum qualifications required for healthcare workers, which differ per profession, but generally include an academic degree and a number of years of experience. Please contact us to find out about the specific requirements for your role. To work in the region, you will need to have all your qualification certificates attested and translated into Arabic.
Recruitment Process
Having diligently identified the suitable candidate and undertaken the vigorous screening process, we shortlist the candidates for interview. If succesful, we take care of the entire placement process, from negotiating the offer to arranging for relocation, licensing and visas. Once a candidate is confirmed, our team focuses on the relevant but strict vetting and background checks carried out by the health authorities in the Middle East. However, it will take approximately 6-8 weeks to complete your application and confirm your visa before you can start. Discover Medics will support and guide you through the recruitment process, right up until your first day at work.
Licencing Process
The Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) is a standardized licensing framework developed by Saudi Arabia and UAE health authorities to ensure minimum qualification standards for healthcare professionals across the region. In Saudi Arabia, it aligns with the Ministry of Health and the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS), setting requirements that reflect both national regulations and international best practices. This framework enables healthcare professionals to meet rigorous licensing standards to practice in accordance with federal laws and global benchmarks.
Discover Medics uses the services of a licensing specialist, who could assist with your application and expedite the process. There is an additional fee for this service.
Visa Application
To apply for a working visa in the Middle East, most overseas nationals first require an entry permit, often referred to as a pink card. This permit is typically sponsored by your employer. The next step is to apply for a residence visa and work permit. Most employers handle the entire visa process on your behalf, including covering all related fees. Additionally, some companies extend visa sponsorship to include the employee’s immediate family members, whilst others require you to pay for your family’s visas separately.
