Your Guide To Living, Working Or Retiring In The Middle East

Moving To Live Or Work In The Middle East.

The Middle East has long attracted people to live and work as it has many very successful economies built upon the exploitation of oil and gas reserves.  Increasingly countries in the region are using the wealth built up to diversify into new industries.  Many are now attracting expats for the lifestyle and not just the employment opportunities.

Lifestyle

Middle Eastern countries are generally tied to tradition but this is combined with very modern amenities and entertainment.  Family and religion are important in most countries meaning that expats need to be conscious of the very different rules and expectations in the region and ensure that their behaviour or dress does not offend people or more seriously result in you breaking the law. 

Countries like Saudi Arabia have firm religious beliefs, rules and traditions (although increasingly seeking to open up to the world) with others like Dubai less restrictive but still with restrictions that you need to be aware of.  Restrictions on alcohol consumption are common throughout the region with varying rules and pre-marital sex is prohibited in most countries.

Family relationships are at the core of social life, with a strong emphasis on community and mutual support. Elders are generally highly respected and their opinions are valued.

Guests are treated with exceptional generosity and it is important to make them feel welcome. It is customary to offer and accept refreshments like coffee or tea.

The climate is warm and sunny most of the year with extreme heat common in the Summer making access to swimming pools essential.  Desert activities such as hiking and quad biking are popular and visits to camel and falcon markets provide a unique cultural experience.  Air-conditioned malls are popular for shopping, dining and entertainment.

Immigration Requirements

Visa requirements for countries in the Middle East vary significantly, with some allowing visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival, while others require advance application. For example, the UAE offers visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival for many nationalities, while Saudi Arabia offers an e-visa for tourists or visa-on-arrival for eligible travellers. It is essential to check the specific requirements for your country of origin and destination well before travelling. 

To work in a country in the Middle East, you generally need a local employer to sponsor your work visa or residency permit and navigate the application process for you. Requirements typically include a valid passport, a signed employment contract, passport photos and documentation to prove your qualifications and identity. A medical examination and a police report from your home country are generally required. 

Country-specific information

• Saudi Arabia: You must have a valid residency permit (known as an Iqama) to work legally in Saudi Arabia. Employers typically process a residency permit within 3 months of your arrival.
• United Arab Emirates (UAE): A work permit is required after securing a residency visa, which is sponsored by your employer. You are not permitted to  work on a tourist or visit visa.
• Qatar: A Qatar work visa is required for employment purposes.
• Other countries: Visa requirements vary, but employer sponsorship is generally a requirement throughout the Middle East.

Working in the Middle East

In most Middle Eastern countries, the standard working week runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday as the weekend.

The working day typically ranges between 7 and 9 hours a day, with a midday break due to high temperatures observed by many employers.

During the holy month of Ramadan, working hours are often reduced for the benefit of fasting employees.

Salaries are generally tax-free and competitive.

Cost of living

The cost of living varies between different countries in the Middle East:

• UAE cost of living is 18% higher than the UK but rental prices are 26% lower than the UK giving an overall cost of living including rentals 1.4% higher in the UK than the UAE.
• The cost of Living in Saudi Arabia is 34.7% lower than in UK and rental prices are 60.3% lower giving a cost of living including rent 42% lower than in UK.
• The cost of living in the UK is 31% higher than in Qatar but with rents 23% lower than in Qatar the overall cost of living including rent is 10% higher in the UK than in Qatar.

Language

The Middle East has a diverse range of languages with Arabic being the most widely spoken language and is the official language in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, and Egypt.  There are many distinct dialects. Other significant languages include Kurdish, spoken across parts of Iraq, Turkey, Syria, and Iran, as well as other languages like Greek, Aramaic, and Armenian. 

Healthcare

Access to healthcare for expats in the Middle East varies by country, but generally involves mandatory private health insurance providing access to high-quality private facilities. While some countries offer universal healthcare to their citizens, expats generally gain access through employer-provided health private insurance or purchase insurance privately.  This gives expats access to the region’s advanced and well-equipped hospitals and clinics.

Property

Expats can purchase property in several Middle Eastern countries.  The UAE and especially Dubai are popular due to their freehold property ownership in designated areas. Other countries like Saudi Arabia also permit foreign ownership with restrictions. Potential buyers should be aware that rules vary by country and city, and some locations are restricted to Muslim buyers.

The decision on whether an expat should rent or buy property in the Middle East depends on your individual circumstances.

Buying can be cheaper long-term  and gives the benefits of asset ownership and may offer tax benefits and residency in some countries like the UAE. However, buying involves a long term commitment  and property values can be volatile.

Renting gives flexibility and lower upfront costs and is the best option for those uncertain about their long-term plans.  However, rental costs can be high and represent a recurring expense without any return from building equity.