General FAQ's

Why do Saudi Arabian Hospitals recruit overseas nurses?

University hospitals in Saudi Arabia have been training nurses for almost 20 years, however, the number of Saudi Arabian people entering the nursing profession falls far short of what is needed to staff the Kingdom's hospitals and clinics. To overcome this hospitals recruit nurses from all over the world, creating a multicultural working environment for the nurse. To overcome differences in the nursing background of their staff hospitals establish their own standards, policies and procedures. Often these standards are loosely based on a system of Healthcare in another country such as USA, Canada or United Kingdom.

Where will I live?

The Hospitals will provide free furnished accommodation. These accommodation complexes are usually called " Compounds". Normally they are located close to the Hospitals with free transportation provided between the accommodation and the hospital, as well as to the City Centre and the main recreational and commercial areas.

What are the social activities

There are numerous options open to you, from sporting activities, cultural activities, to going to the beach or the desert, dinner parties, Concerts at Embassies and many expatriate amateur clubs.

• Aerobics and keep fit classes
• Athletics
• Basketball
• Billiards
• Cricket
• Cross Country & Road running
• Diving
• Fishing
• Football
• Golf
• Horse Riding
• Jet-skiing
• Outdoor pursuits: camping, hiking, rock climbing
• Rugby
• Sailing
• Snorkeling
• Squash
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Ten-pin Bowling
• Volleyball
• Weightlifting and Gym work

What kind of restaurants can I expect?

There are hundreds of places to visit, ranging from the $50-a-head restaurant at a five star hotel to the local fast food kiosk selling delicious Sharwma sandwiches at 30 cents a time. Pizza Hut and McDonald's plus their Arabic equivalents are everywhere. And for something different you could try: French, Thai, Italian, Japanese, Egyptian, Chinese, Indian, Mongolian, Indonesian, Lebanese, Pakistani, Filipino, Turkish, Korean, Malaysian, American or an English Fish 'n' Chip shop.

Where can I go at weekends?

For the longer weekend trips, Saudi Arabia has much to offer in the way of history, culture, geography and geology. An off-road vehicle is necessary for the more ambitious traveller.

• Popular destinations are:
• The Nabatean tombs in Madein Salah (500kms north of Jeddah),
• The Hijaz Railway (made famous by Lawrence of Arabia),
• The crater and The Wildlife Centre east of Al Taif town,
• The mountainous Asir region south of Jeddah, with the cities of Abha and Khamis,
• Desert or beach camping - the Red Sea coastline extends for over 1,800 km.
• Diving the islands and reefs off the Jeddah coast.
• Jeddah is also well placed for international travel. The other middle eastern countries plus
• Egypt are within 2 hours flying time - considered no more than commuting by the locals. Further a field the delights of Africa, Eastern Europe, Asia and the Far East are within reach.

What Kind of clothing should I wear?

Women are required to wear an abaya, available in all price categories. It's like a black cloak worn over your clothing. All clothing worn in public places must be modest. Clothing worn in the hospital grounds can be more casual.

Men should wear conservative clothing. Generally clothing even at work will be more casual than at home. Have some suits for occasions. Jewellery should also be worn conservatively