Dear Friends
As South African Retailer I always wanted to work overseas, on my bucket list. I am sure there are many of you who would like to do the same. Firstly for the money and then for the international experience and you CV will be more competitive. There are many thing you are not told, let me unpack some. I worked in Riyadh and Bahrain for 2 years, the heat and dust hectic.
This is Riyadh in Saudi Arabi, home to 7 million people and according to world health inhabitable, well they make it work. To work overseas, middle east or most other countries you need:
1. Visa – Hectic process with certification of your degree and interviews 2. Police Clearance (takes 6 weeks) 3. Full medical – In South Africa and when you get there, including stool 4. Actual move after about 2 month.
Most people live in compounds in GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) but not needed, times have changed. The biggest reason for living in compound is social for you / your kids and access to schools. I went over alone so arranged house share and bachelor pad in Bahrain and Riyadh. Winters there are amazing at 25 degrees in the day, Summer is challenging at 45′ .
I was very blessed and had amazing work and social experience in both Riyadh and Bahrain, you will always find other expats and social clubs where you can hang out in your off time. Shopping centers are amazing as that is were everybody gathers to avoid the heat. In the past 3 years movie houses have opened and the rules for expats are much lighter.
In short, if you get the opportunity grab it with both hands. You will not be sorry, I am now back in SA and proudly making my businesses work.
Regards
Charles
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