How to find a job in the Middle East

This handy guide to working in the Middle East security sector is essential reading both for security rookies and seasoned managers, from the UK or from around the world. It covers the jobs, the requirements, the culture and what to do when you first arrive in the country.

Ian Kell, senior consultant, SSR Personnel

Introduction

The Middle East region has undergone a boom in recent times and it continues to this day. Opportunities for skilled security practitioners are in demand for Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain,Qatar, Iraq and the U.A.E.

Dubai is part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a grouping of seven states formed in 1971, each ruled by their own emir and with a high level of autonomy. Dubai, the largest UAE city, and neighbouring Abu Dhabi, are developing the area as a regional centre, with particular reference to transport, trade and tourism.

Part of the transformation of the UAE since the discovery of oil in the 1950s has been the application of fuel revenues to diversify the economy with a view to long-term prosperity and stability.

A spate of building projects triggered a workforce demand, leading to rapid population increase. Growing by 292,000 during 2006, the population reached 1.42 million by the year's end, with around 75% of residents being expatriates. Such growth in a very short time has caused extreme traffic-related problems such as long journey times, a high level of accidents and pollution.

 

Is there a job for you there?

The roles available for expats in the security industry are a variety of skilled positions, starting at project engineer level – anything lower is covered by an army of workers mainly from the Indian sub-continent.

Design skills are in demand as are Project Management, Operations, Business Development and Consultancy experience. Positions are available in a wide market sector covering aviation, tall towers, transport, banking, oil and gas, military and leisure complexes for new builds and upgrades. There is a preference for people who have international experience as this will be useful for managing a multi-national workforce.

English is widely used, however anyone with any level of Arabic is a bonus and previous work in a hot climate is also beneficial.

 

Getting there and living there

The Middle East is within easy reach of the UK with Emirates Airlines being a major carrier. Surrounding countries have a regular service via their national carriers or British Airways.

Visas/work permits are fairly straightforward for UK passport holders (including spouse) with a number of employers having a direct link into the various government immigration departments.

The cost of living in the region is far lower than the UK and petrol prices are extremely pleasant, however this is offset by the spiralling cost of accommodation (due to short supply) in places like Qatar and Dubai where rental prices have risen by up to 37% in the last year.

Alcohol restrictions vary in each state, from a totally ‘dry’ situation in Saudi to a more relaxed stance in Dubai, where bars and clubs are plentiful. However restrictions can be imposed at any time and moderation is advised.

Rowdy behaviour and public displays of affection are discouraged. Drink driving after a night on the lash could literally be just that, as you could expect a lengthy stay in a crowded jail without creature comforts like cable TV – you will be sharing your cell with more creatures than comfort.

 

Who the industry players are

Government departments provide a large share of the work in some countries, whereas large multinational developers are present in others.

Some of the local big players include Nakheel, EMMAR and Dubai Holding, whilst there are select consultancies who provide a combined security, consultancy and integration service. Mott MacDonald, Parsons and Siemens are active, along with select British companies with various levels of representation.