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. Experience from 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.

Is the salary tax free?

Yes, but you should check any reciprocal arrangements with your home country.

Does Profco give tax advise?

No, we do not have a tax/ financial expert to advise you. Tax laws vary from Country to Country and we recruit candidates from all over the world and we cannot be expert with the tax laws of all juristrictions. You will need to obtain independant financial advise.

How do I open a Bank account and how to I transfer my money?

Opening a bank acccount is very straight forward. You will first need to obtain your Iquama which is like a resident/ ID card. The first time you go to the bank it will take some time to set up your account, internet banking etc just the same as in your home Country. Then you can transfer money on line or through ATM machines which are located in the hospital and elsewhere.

You will get a debit card so you can use ATM's as you require your cash.

Banking is as sophisticated and easy as it is in your home Country. We advise to have enough money in your account at home to cover your first month bills or invoices while you are waiting to open your bank account in Saudi.

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 always 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 and intensive care. 

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, New Zealand, US and Canadian passport holders only, so we can only process your application if you hold one of these passports. Otherwise you have to contact 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 grammar, listening and medical terminology.

How long does the process take?

http://www.nursinginsaudi.net/application-process-58.html

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. Your contract can also be extended on site.

Does the hospital pay my flight tickets?

Yes, the hospital will pay your mobilisation flight from your nearest international airport and your 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. You will always have your own bedroom.  It depends what is available when you are next to be allocated accommodation. There are numerous different accommodation complexes in each hospital (more is added all the time as the hospitals grow - so there is a choice). You will fill a form outlining your preferences before you travel. The hospital will then make the allocation. Generally most nurses are very satisfied, but they will move you if you are not.  All accommodation is of a good standard in all our hospitals.

How much vacation do I have?

You have 50- 54 days leave in one year depending on the hospital.

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. After the probationary period, 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 days service award for each completed year. This is granted under Saudi Labour law. Some hospitals also offer a end-of-year bonus.

Do I get free health care?

Yes, except dental care (which is emergency only). 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 unlikely to be approved.

Can I take my family?

For nurses no, the contracts are single status only.

Married Status contracts are only awarded to Senior Administrative staff and Medical Consultants.

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. However, you will be responsible yourself for all costs associated with their trip and the hospital does not supply accommodation.

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. Shifts are 07:00- 19:30 and 19:00- 07: 30. Business hours operate in some clinical areas such as clinics then you work Saturday to Wednesday. ( Thursday and Friday is the weekend in Saudi Arabia)

Do I need insurance?

As in other countries, your employer covers nurses' insurance.

Is there support for employees against the employer?

Yes, the Saudi Labour Court 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 places 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 the old town or any of the numerous shopping complexes
• Eating out
• Numerous sporting activities: tennis, diving, golf, horse riding, gym, football, drama, various book clubs...

The list is endless!

What is the working language of the hospital?

Patients are mostly Arabic speaking, but the working language is English. The Hospitals provide Arabic courses and you are encouraged to take these courses.

Can I continue my education ?

Yes, the hospitals have very strong links with universities in US, UK and Australia. Mostly nurses set up their courses with Universities in their home Country and do courses online. On line medical libraries from around the world are available from the hospital.