Frequently Asked Questions - Working as a Nurse in Saudi Arabia
How much experience do I need to work in Saudi Arabia?
Our Client Hospitals require a minimum of two years post graduation experience. Placements in final year student placements or summer jobs during student years do not count. Generally as our client hospitals are the leading tertiary referral centers you need to have experience from University or teaching hospitals. You are unlikely to be approved if you come from a small hospital.
Is the salary tax free?
Yes but you should check any recripriciol arrangements with your home Country.
I am a male nurse can I work in Saudi Arabia?
There are very limited posts for male nurses as Saudi Arabia is a Islamic society and males cannot nurse females or children on their own there should be a female present. This therefore reduces the flexibility of the wards. Males are likely to be hired on occasion to males wards and some critical care areas such as operating room, emergency room, Intensive Care. There is to be a gender mix. The Ministry has begun to limit the visas available for male nurses so its not always the hospitls choice.
I do not have a European or Australian Passport can I be hired?
Hospitals in Saudi Arabia contract recruitment agencies world wide. Each Agency has it own geographical territory that they source nurses from. Professional Connections is contracted to recruit European, Australian and New Zealand passport holders only so we can only process your application if you hold one of these passports. Otherwise you have to identify yourself your local agent.
Do I need to pass an English Language test?
Yes. Your English skills need to be good enough for safe and effective practice. Professional Connections will give you a test that tests grammer, listening and medical terminology.
How long does the process take?
http://www.nursinginsaudi.net/Application-Process
How am I interviewed?
You will first have a pre screening interview by our Nurse Recruiter then once you have completed the required paperwork you will have your final interview by telephone with the nurse manager from the hospital.
What will I be asked at interview?
You will be asked general questions about why you want to work in Saudi Ararbia, about your work experience and then some clinical questions related to your specialty.
How long are the Contracts?
The minimum is one year but you can sign two years initially as well. Then you can extend when you are on site.
Does the hospital pay my flight tickets?
Yes, the hospital will pay your mobilistation flight from your nearest international airport and a demobilisation flight at the end of your contract. If you recontract you get one extra flight.
Does the hospital supply accommodation?
Yes, the accommodation is supplied free of charge and includes all furniture and free utilities
Is the accommodation shared?
Sometimes yes and sometimes no. It depends what is available there are numerous different accommodation complexes in each hosptial they have added more as the hospitals have grown so there is a choice. You will fill a form before you travel with you preferences outlined then the hospital will make the allocation. Generally most nurses are very satisfied but they will move you if you are not. You always have your own room- Accommodation is of a good standard in all our hospitals
How much vacation do I have?
You have 54 days leave in one year.
When can I take my vacation?
You have to first complete your 90 day probationary period, During this time you can only get leave for an emergency situation. Then you can schedule your leave with your ward manager as the schedule allows.
Do I get holiday flights?
Some hospitals offer one ticket mid contract.
Are there any bonuses?
Yes some hospitals have a sign on bonus of between USD 2500 for a one year contract and USD 5000 for a two year contract
There is a 15% cost of living allowance added to your basic salary at this time.
There is a 15 days service award for each completed year this is granted under Saudi Labour law and some hospitals also offer a end of year bonus
Do I get free health care?
Yes except Dental care. The hospital provides you free health care including vaccinations.
You will undergo a thorough medical examination prior to deployment. If you have any risk factor you are unlikley to be approved
Can I take my family?
For nurses no, the contracts are single status
Only senior administrative staff and Medical Consultanats are awarded Married Status contracts.
Can my family visit me?
Yes, they can get a visa for 90 days at any one time the Hospital will facilitate this for you. You however will be responsible for all costs associated with their trip the hosptial does not supply acomoadation etc
What are the working hours?
The working hours are 44 hours per week. Generally nurses work 22 shifts in a six week period. You have to rotate between days and nights.
Do I need insurance?
As in other Countries your employer covers nurses insurance.
Is there support for emploees against the employer?
Yes there is a Saudi Labour Court that strongly defends employees.
Can I leave if I do not like it?
Yes at any time but ideally giving one month notice.
As a woman can I walk around freely ?
Yes you can go anywhere on your own at any time All the Hospitals have drivers to take you placees and you can take a taxi that will be outside your housing.
What can I do on my time off?
Everything you would do at home!
Shopping in old town or any of the numerous shopping comples
Eating out
All sporting activities. Tennis, Diving. Golf, Horse riding, Gym, football ,Drama, Varoius book clubs
List is endless
What is the working language of the hospital ?
Patients are arabic speaking but the working language is English
Can I contunue my education ?
Yes the hospitals have very strong links with Universities in US, UK and Australia.
