Working in Dubai INFORMATION
Hi there!
I am a nurse working in Abu Dhabi in the UAE - it's about 1+1/2 hours drive from Dubai. I've seen the emails asking how it is over here so I thought I let you know my experience.
I've been here since 2002 and am loving it! My salary is ok, usually they're similar to ones in the UK but each person is different, much of it goes on years of experience in approved/recognised hospitals. Accomodation is usually provided, but do check cos the rental prices here are rocketing at the moment. The lifestyle is great. Travel to parts of the world which would cost a fortune from home is cheap. The expat community is huge, making friends is easy. Most hospitals offer in house continuous education, but they're not really up on internationally recognised study courses yet, nor in giving study time. Go for the bigger hospitals (in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Dubai) as they give better shift schedules, packages & salaries.
Be aware there's a lot of red tape to get through to work here. From date of application to date of starting work can take anywhere from 3 to 9 months. Also, be prepared to bargin for your salary if you're not initially happy with it. It might not work, but if you're planning to refuse the offer based on the salary, give it a try.
You don't have to use an agency to apply, you can apply direct to the recruitment department of your chosen hospital directly. If you choose to use an agency, certainly don't choose one which charges you.
Can't think of much else to tell you right now, except; get that CV up to date & come over!!