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Archive for category: Middle East

Nursing In King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh – An Irish Nurses Perspective

March 10, 2022/in Advice & Tips, Middle East, Nursing, Saudi Arabia /by CCM

Testimonial – Siobhan Henderson – Nursing in King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh

What is your Name & Job Title? My name is Siobhan Henderson. I am currently working as a recruitment consultant for CCM. I was previously in Saudi Arabia for almost 3 years where I worked as an ICU nurse.

Can you give us a snapshot of your nursing/allied healthcare career thus far? After completing my training I began on a neuro-medical ward in Beaumont Hospital, where I stayed for 2 years. I then began a Post Grad Diploma in Neuroscience Nursing and moved to Neuro ICU from there. After 2 years in Neuro ICU I moved to King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre Saudi Arabia on a 6 month locum contract. After completing my 6 months I returned to Ireland for 6 months and moved back out to Saudi where I completed a further 2 years in King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre.

Which country are you working in through CCM? Saudi Arabia

Why did you choose this country as your destination? The main reasons I chose Saudi Arabia were for saving and travel opportunities, both of which I did.

When you first arrived, what supports did the hospital have in place to help you adjust? The hospital were very supportive from the beginning. We were met at the airport and transported to our accommodation. There was a meet and greet organised for the following morning where we were introduced to some of the people who would be helping us with our orientation. The GHO and GNO over the coming weeks was very well organised and there was always somebody there if you needed any support with anything.

What kind of facilities do you have in your accommodation and local area? The onsite facilities in the hospital grounds are excellent. There is a pool in each complex, and also a gym. There are tennis and basketball courts, a shop, laundrette, salon, numerous cafes, restaurants and banks on the hospital grounds too. You’re never stuck for anything!

How do you spend your days/evenings/weekends off? I immediately joined the GAA football club when I moved over. We trained twice a week with them and had tournaments every so often, both inside and outside the country. I also joined a social hockey group where we played street hockey on Saturdays in the DQ. They also did frisbee on a Wednesday! Other than that there was always something social happening, whether it be a gathering in a compound or an event in the embassy, you were never short of something to do. The malls are also great for some entertainment/retail therapy!

What is nursing/allied healthcare like in your new country? (How is it different to home and how do you adapt to the differences?) Nursing in Saudi is quite different to what we’re used to in Ireland. A lot of that is because of their cultural beliefs. It does take some getting used to, but at the end of the day you’re still a nurse caring for patients as you would at home. You learn pretty quickly how to adapt and you’re always well supported by your colleagues who’ve been through the same transition to a new healthcare system!

What professional development opportunities were offered to you? I was offered the position of charge nurse after some time there. I also undertook the role of RRT (Rapid Response Team) nurse close to the end of my contract, which I really enjoyed. There is a lot of focus on CPD and you are really encouraged to actively participate in learning and developing.

What have you enjoyed most to date? For me the best part about Saudi was the friendships I made and the adventures we went on together. It really is a unique place and I am so glad I had the opportunity to experience life out there. I have made the best friends, travelled to places I never imagined, and memories I will never forget!

What advice would you give to someone thinking of travelling to your chosen destination? GO NOW!!!….. And pack for all occasions!

Siobhan Henderson worked as a nurse in Saudi Arabia from 2018-2021

If you would like to apply to work as a nurse King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh complete the application here

Nursing Overview Saudi Arabia – Nursing Registration

June 29, 2020/in Advice & Tips, Middle East, Nursing, Saudi Arabia /by CCM

So you’ve done your research, talked to your family and friends & have decided to take your career to Saudi Arabia.  What’s the process? The ultimate question…. All international nursing, whether it be Europe, America or the Middle East, takes time. This is due to overseas nurse licensing & work visa/permit applications.  Saudi Arabia is our most popular location with Aussies and Kiwi nurses travelling there for work every month! To work in Saudi Arabia there are 4 main steps. The entire process can take minimum of 4-6 months so it’s good to plan ahead. Don’t worry, we will help you through it all!

Applying for Employment

The benefit of Nursing in Saudi Arabia is that you can secure employment before you have to apply for nursing registration and work visa permits. To apply you’ll need an updated CV and completed application forms. You’ll then be asked to complete an interview via an online platform such as WhatsApp, Zoom or Skype. If you’re successful, you’ll receive an official job offer letter and we can help you complete the necessary paperwork!

Apply for Nursing Registration

The registration board for Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Commission for Health Specialities (SCFHS). The registration process can be quite complex, so at CCM, we do this for you!

There are 4 main steps for nurse registration:

  • Dataflow

    Dataflow is a company hired by SCFHS to verify your qualifications. You’ll just need to send us scanned copies of these documents. We then send them to dataflow for verification. The process takes approximately 6 weeks. The documents you’ll need to provide are:

    • Bachelor Degree
    • Academic Transcript
    • Current Nurse License
    • Statement of Service
    • Passport Copy
  • Mumaris Plus

Mumaris plus is the SCFHS online portal for nurse registration. Once Dataflow has verified all your documents, we will upload the required information to the Mumaris plus portal for you. The SCFHS will then assess and determine if you meet their criteria to be a Registered Nurse in their country. If you do, you’ll receive an eligibility number. You need this number to progress to the next step.

  • Prometric Exam

You’ll find that most overseas registration boards require you to take an exam. For Ireland it’s the RCSI exam, for the UK it’s the OSCE exam, for Saudi it’s the Prometric Exam. Our best advice for the exam – don’t stress! The Prometric Exam is multiple choice & based on the different specialities of nursing. You have 3 hours to complete it. Most nurses have it done within an hour. You only need 45% to pass and you have 3 attempts to complete it. We haven’t had any nurses fail this exam and you won’t be the first!

  • Professional Classification

Once you’ve passed the Prometric Exam, the results are automatically sent to the SCFHS. After approximately 2 weeks, they’ll issue you with your “Professional Classification”. With this, you can travel to Saudi where you complete the final stage through the hospital, as they will be your work sponsor. You’ll then be fully licensed!

Work Visa/Permits

The process takes approximately 8 – 12 weeks* and is done in conjunction with your nursing registration. There is some paperwork required including: Nursing degree authentication, Police check & Medical. Don’t worry, we have a dedicated team to help you with all the required paperwork & apply for this visa on your behalf.

*processing time frames vary, this is just a guide

Travel

Once you have your nurse registration and work visa/permit you’re ready to hop on the plane! All of our Recruitment Consultants have lived and worked in Saudi Arabia and remember how daunting that first step on the plane can be. We are dedicated to compiling resource materials about the culture, work and life in Saudi Arabia so that you can be better prepared for when you arrive. We’re all happy to answer any questions you have, the challenge is getting us to stop talking about it! Once we go down memory lane, we may never stop!

Nursing Overview Saudi Arabia – Cost Of Living

June 26, 2020/in Advice & Tips, Middle East, Nursing, Saudi Arabia /by CCM

Cost of living is a major factor in the decision making process when relocating overseas. If your goal for overseas nursing is solely financial and you endeavour to save for a mortgage or similar, then Saudi Is prefect for you. With salary paid tax free to you in Saudi and free accommodation provided, this country offers fantastic saving potential to help you achieve your financial goals.  

Below is a basic breakdown of some of the common costs of living. The below is a guide only. We have listed a few websites to help you conduct further research so you can assess your individual needs.

Food

Grocery prices vary depending on which supermarket you choose to shop at. HyperPanda is a local grocery store with local produce. Danube is a more upscale grocery store stocking both local and imported goods. Many grocery stores have home delivery services.

2 Litre milk 8 SAR $3.09AUD $3.30NZD
15 large eggs 7.75 SAR $2.99AUD $3.22NZD
1kg Tomatoes 9.95 SAR $3.84AUD $4.13NZD
1kg potatoes 1.95 SAR $3.80AUD $4.13NZD
500g boneless chicken 6.95 SAR $2.68AUD $2.88NZD
Bread 4.25 SAR $1.60AUD $1.70NZD

Housing 

Housing will be you’re biggest savings. All of our hospitals provide free, fully furnished accommodation for staff including utilities & electricity. Males have the option to move out of hospital provided accommodation and source their own housing, this is often covered by a housing allowance.  For a more detailed breakdown of housing please visit out Accommodation blog. 

Internet

Unlimited 5G internet 280 SAR/month $108AUD/month $116NZD/month

 Transport

Petrol 0.82 SAR/L $0.30 AUD/L $0.34 NZD/L
Taxi 10 min ride 12.32 SAR $4.76AUD $5.12 NZD
Intercity train 80 SAR $30.90 AUD $33.23 NZD

 Entertainment

Dinner for two 69 SAR $26AUD $28NZD
Movie tickets 60 SAR $23AUD $24NZD
Best available theatre tickets 100 SAR $38AUD $41NZD

 Further resources

https://www.expatistan.com/cost-of-living/country/saudi-arabia

https://www.expatica.com/sa/moving/about/cost-of-living-in-saudi-arabia-71066/#:~:text=The%20general%20cost%20of%20living%20and%20standards%20of%20living%20in,to%20cover%20basic%20living%20expenses.

Nursing Overview Saudi Arabia – Expat Life

June 25, 2020/in Advice & Tips, Middle East, Nursing, Saudi Arabia /by CCM

Expat Life in Saudi Arabia

It’s a common misconception that there is no social life for expats in Saudi Arabia. Like any country, life is what you make of it. If you’re open to invitations, trying new things & meeting new people, you’ll be amazed at what’s on offer. Behind the veiled curtain the media portrays, Saudi Arabia has an incredibly active social scene where one can be as active or as quiet as one likes.

Expat activities

One of the best ways to make new friends when you arrive in a new country, is to join a sporting team. Depending on what suits you there’s a number of clubs and associations around the country available to new arrivals.

  • Gaelic Athletic Association

The Gaelic Football club is located in Riyadh & runs across the Middle East with teams travelling to neighbouring Middle Eastern countries for championship matches.

The club also has a Hurling and Camogie base for those wanting to branch out from football.

  • Riyadh Road Runners

The athletic club has been running since 1978 with branches in the coastal cities of Dharhan & Jeddah. The club focuses on marathons, cycling and 

triathlons and hosts races with approximately 250 -300 participants.

  • Scuba Diving Clubs

If you live in Jeddah or love to dive you can’t go past the dive scene on the Red Sea. There’s an array of clubs available with people going out each weekend to explore what the relatively untouched coastline has to offer. Once you arrive in the country, you’ll soon find a club that suits you, just ask around.

  • Dancing

Latin dancing is surprisingly popular in the Middle East with many festivals being held around the region. Saudi itself has a growing dance scene with many compounds hosting classes and salsa clubs popping up across the region. Ask around and you’ll find a club or dance school near you. Great way to meet people and get the endorphins pumping.

  • Trampolines

If you’re just looking for a bit of fun, try BOUNCE, a theme park filled with wall to wall trampolines. Embrace your inner child and jump around. Its good exercise and most importantly will have you laughing with joy.

Yoga, Pilates, hiking, hockey, rock climbing, badminton, tennis, volleyball and other sports are all available in the Kingdom along with a multitude of other sporting activities. Just ask around and you’ll soon discover what you’re looking for.

Local Events

With the country slowly opening up, you’ll find there’s a lot more locally run festivals available providing you with the opportunity to appreciate the local culture.

  • Janadriyah Festival

Arguably the largest cultural festival in Saudi, it takes place over two weeks in February each year. Expect to see traditional sword dances, horse and camel races, local arts and crafts, songs and poetry, falconry & delicious food – it’s the best way to learn more about the Saudi culture and experience what the country you’ve chosen to live in has to offer.

  • Riyadh Season

Riyadh Season was a 3 month festival covering a variety of themes to celebrate the social life of Saudi. 31 restaurants had pop up stalls to satisfy the culinary tastes of foodies. Concerts were held across the city, including local Arabian stars as well as famous Korean pop band BTS. Winter Wonderland from London was created with spouting ice-skating rinks, Ferris wheels and fairground rides. Theatre lovers could enjoy plays such as The Wizard of Oz & King Lear. The festival had something for everyone and is sure to be back again this year.

  • E-Prix

As part of the major car racing event E-Prix, a massive music festival was held in Saudi. Stars included Enrique Iglesias, Amr Diab, David Guetta, One Republic and the Black Eyed Peas all performing to a sold out crowd.

It’s a fantastic time to be on the ground in Saudi as you watch the country change before your eyes. A lot has been invested with a string of cultural events planned for the coming months and years.

Embassy Events

Many embassies will have events which expats are welcome to join. You’ll need to contact the embassy and be on their event mailing list. Some embassies are open to all expats, others will require you to be the “plus one” to someone from their country.  Europe month is one of the more popular events held by the Embassies in Saudi with concerts ad different cultural events being held throughout the month of July.  Ladies, when packing your bags, make sure you bring at least 1-2 ball gowns, embassy balls are held throughout the year. You’ll also find the Australian and New Zealand embassies hosting their own events. If you’re from one of these countries, reach out and ask to be on the mailing list.

Art, Food & Entertainment

A decade ago, Saudi had almost no art galleries. Fast forward to now and local artists are flourishing. From traditional, to abstract, to graffiti more and more art is popping up across the city. Check out where to find the best art galleries here. If you’re interested in more textile forms of art, take a look at Saudi Design week where modern design meets traditional Islamic craft.

If you’re living in one of the major cities – Riyadh or Jeddah, there is an array of restaurants and dining options for you. From local street food,  food trucks and fine dining there’s plenty of opportunity to explore the culinary delights of Saudi. A popular place is The Boulevard where many expats go for a night out and to experience the local atmosphere.

There’s all forms of entertainment popping up across Saudi as it begins to diversify and become more tourist friendly. One of the more popular forms of entertainment – Escape Rooms. Put your mind to the test and figure out this puzzle to reach the end of the maze.

Travel

There’s so much to explore in the country itself, too much to list in this article. For more info on domestic travel check out our Domestic Travel blog here.

Nursing Overview Saudi Arabia – Domestic Travel

June 24, 2020/in Advice & Tips, Middle East, Nursing, Saudi Arabia /by CCM

Saudi Arabia has been described as the “final frontier” of tourism by Lonely Planet. Previously shrouded in mystery, there was not a lot known about the domestic wonders hidden with this vast desert country. However, it has recently opened up to tourism and as a result, the opportunities for exploration & discovery have grown. From the coastline of the Red Sea, to the mountainous ranges of Hijaz, the ancient archaeology of Mada’in Saleh, the religious birthplace of Mecca or the cosmopolitan city of Riyadh – there is so much to see and explore in this beautiful country.

Cosmopolitan City Life

Look no further than the capital city of Riyadh, located in the heart of the country. The city is comprised of soaring architectural stunning towers in the centre of a sweeping desert. Here you’ll find 5 star Michelin restaurants, designer shopping malls, lively festivals and a thriving cosmopolitan atmosphere. Our top pics

  • High tea at the Globe: you’ll be served the finest of foods with sweeping views of the city.
  • Sky Bridge: be rocketed to the 99th floor of Kingdom tower and take the perfect selfie
  • Masmak Fortress: delve into the history or modern Saudi
  • Al Diraiyah: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, an oasis within the city

Beach Life

The city of Jeddah is located on the coast of the Red Sea. Home to fantastic dive sites, bustling souq’s and stunning coastline it’s often the first city that travellers visit upon arrival in the country. Our top picks:

  • The Corniche: take a walk along the coastline. There’s children’s parks, cafes, a pulsing local atmosphere not to be missed.
  • Al Balad: A UNESCO listed heritage site where the old world meets the new
  • Diving day trips: Relatively untouched by tourism, Jeddah is the perfect place to explore what’s under the sea. Be amazed by the variety of sea life and colorful corals as you explore the natural beauty of the Red Sea. Don’t miss the Farasan Islands
  • Al Wahba Crater: a day trip from Jeddah, the crater is believed to have been caused by a meteorite and is perfect for those up for an adventure

Ancient Wonders

Madain Saleh is not to be missed. Full of history and archaeological wonders, the area dates back to ancient civilization of the Nabatean. Beautifully carved stone tombs with ancient texts invaluable to historians. Unlike its sister city of Petra, Jordan, Madain Saleh is relatively untouched by tourism allowing its ancient and fragile beauty to remain intact. Do not miss Madain Saleh!

For more ancient wonders, the Jubbah rock carvings located in Central Najd date back to 5500BC. Here you’ll find some of the most impressive petroglyphs you’ll ever see.

Mountain Ranges

Popular with campers and hikers, the Asir National Park encompasses mountain ranges nearly 3000m above sea level. Mt Soudah is famous for misty cold weather and boasts stunning views. It’s not for the faint-hearted though, there are no marked hiking or trekking trails, the routes can be tricky and mist or thick fog is common. Having said that, if you want to go off the beaten track, where better than the mountains.

Our top pic:

  • The Hanging Village of Habala: An ancient village accessible only by ropes and situated half way down a cliff face.
  • Paraglide down form the mountain tops: what better place for stunning views than from the sky itself?
  • The City of Abha: located in the Asir province there’s a lot to explore in this region and so much local wonder to discover

The above is just a taste of what Saudi has to offer. There’s so much to explore and discover in this unknown part of the world. We encourage you to take full advantage of your item there, hit the road and explore!

Further Resources:

https://againstthecompass.com/en/places-visit-saudi-arabia-itinerary/#3

https://www.blueabaya.com/2012/01/ten-amazing-places-to-visit-in-saudi.html

http://www.bbc.com/travel/story/20170418-saudi-arabias-silent-desert-city

http://www.saudiarabiatourismguide.com/why-exploring-saudi-arabia/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g293995-Riyadh_Riyadh_Province-Vacations.html

Nursing Overview Saudi Arabia – Accommodation

June 23, 2020/in Advice & Tips, Middle East, Nursing, Saudi Arabia /by CCM

One of the biggest benefits of living in Saudi is that, for most people, the accommodation is free, fully furnished and includes electricity/utilities. There are a few different options available depending on the hospital that has employed you and the type of contract you have taken. 

For the most part, nurses and AHPs are housed in hospital housing. This can be either a high rise apartment complex, or a western styled compound. All our hospitals provide accommodation for single female employees. For male employees, most hospitals provide accommodation or alternatively are allocate a housing allowance for those who wish to find their own. For families or couples, depending on the contract type you’ll either have a housing allowance or accommodation provided. So let’s look at the different types of accommodation….

Compounds

Expat compounds were first established in the early 1980’s in an effort to allow foreign expats to feel a little more at home in their living environment. Generally, compounds consist of a number of 2-4 bedroom villas to create almost a small village or gated suburb within the city, similar to a university campus. Within the compound are a range of amenities including pools, spas, saunas, gyms, tennis courts, basketball courts, squash courts, restaurants, small grocery stores, movie theatres, bowling alleys and other such amenities. Compounds vary in size and can rate between 3-5 stars. This will determine the types and number of amenities available on your compound if you are placed here.

Compound life is a great way to meet fellow expats and build friendships. If you’re not housed on a compound, don’t worry! These compounds quite often hold social events & gatherings and you’ll still get a chance to meet people. For those who prefer a more private or quieter social life, the compounds are big enough to provide people with their own space too.

For our hospitals, some compounds are on the same grounds as the hospital. However, most are located approximately 20-30 minutes away from the hospital. Shuttle buses are provided free of charge to transport staff to and from the hospital and allows staff to have that separation of work and home life.

High rise apartments

Apartment complexes are either on the hospital grounds or 10 – 30 minutes away from the hospital. Shuttle buses are provided if housing is not on hospital grounds. Apartment types consist of either studio, 1 bedroom or 2 bedroom apartments. Nurses who travel with CCM will always have their own bedroom and rarely have to share a bathroom. Depending on the hospital, some apartments will be older but more spacious apartments, others will be new but smaller. Apartment complexes will have large shared laundry facilities along with shared amenities such as swimming pools, gyms and computer rooms.

Off-site living

For males, if you choose to live off hospital housing you will need to calculate your housing allowance based on your contract type, and use this to determine which type of housing you can afford. Compounds with a large number of amenities for example, will naturally be more expensive. Apartments may suit your budget but may not have the amenities you want. Quite often a group of colleagues will rent a large share house together allowing for social connections and shared costs. Do your research and ask your colleagues who have lived in the country for their advice. There are also many expat groups that you can utilise for further information.

Furnishings

All hospital provided accommodation is fully furnished. Furnishings include beds, couches, linen, kitchen cutlery, pots, pans, towels, TV, landline phone etc. Everyone’s taste is different & so while the furnishings may not be to your exact liking you will have everything you need. There are plenty of great home-ware shops in Saudi Arabia including IKEA so once you get settled you will be able to go shopping for nick knacks, cushions & plants to make your new place feel like home.

 

You can find out more about our client hospitals accommodation here

Further resources

https://www.expatarrivals.com/middle-east/saudi-arabia/accommodation-saudi-arabia

http://www.kingpininternational.com/news/article/guide-finding-apartment-saudi-arabia/

https://www.expatica.com/sa/housing/renting/renting-in-saudi-arabia-70915/#Renting

https://www.expat.com/en/guide/middle-east/saudi-arabia/7_accommodation.html

https://www.zaahib.com/home/en

Nursing Overview – Introduction to Saudi Arabia

June 22, 2020/in Advice & Tips, Middle East, Nursing, Saudi Arabia /by CCM

So much to be said about Saudi Arabia – where do we begin! An ancient country in a modern world, it’s perfect for those with a sense of adventure and people wanting to experience a rich culture at its most authentic. It often receives mixed reviews in the media however for those who have travelled and worked there they’ll tell you a different story, one full of wonder and awe. You can find out more about peoples personal experiences in Saudi here. For now though, let’s dive into the country and find out more about this hidden gem.

The Basics:

Saudi Arabia is located in the Middle East with population of 33.4 million. It’s still a very young country, only transitioning from a land with nomadic tribes, to what is now known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932.

There are three main cities

Jeddah – located in the west along the coast of the Red Sea. Perfect for those wishing to live a more carefree beach lifestyle & yet still have access to cafes, restaurants,, shopping malls & an international airport.

Riyadh – the capital city located in the heart of the country. A thriving cosmopolitan city filled with high rise buildings, modern architecture, mega shopping malls, 5-star hotels, days spas, cafes & restaurants serving a wide range of international cuisine.

Mecca/Medina – the birthplace of Islam with deeply religious roots. Thousands flock here each year to perform the annual pilgrimage of Hajj.

From ancient to Modern:

In the past 2 years, Saudi has seen a huge shift as it navigates its way into a new modern era. Women can now drive, tourism visas are widely available, artists such as Mariah Carey and Andre Bocelli perform live concerts, festivals are abundant throughout the year, the traditional abaya is slowly being worn less and less – these are just a few examples of how the country is developing and constantly growing. In the same breath though, visitors to the region can still experience the traditional hospitality of the nomadic Bedouins tribes, view the 10,000 year old petroglyphs of ancient civilisations, and experience the peacefulness of the beautiful vast desert. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch a country transform itself and find the balance between staying true to traditional roots and adapting to an ever changing modern world.

People:

There are a large number of expats in the Kingdom with approximately 38.3% of the population comprising of foreign workers.  The local people are overwhelmingly kind, and hospitality is deeply rooted into their culture. You’ll find that the countries citizens are more than willing to offer you a cup of traditional Arabic tea and are proud to tell you about their country and culture.

Weather:

In summer, the country can get up to over 50 degrees Celsius. In the heart of the country, this can be quite a dry heat however along the coast, you canexpect a lot of humidity. Luckily everywhere is air-conditioned! In the winter, temperatures can drop down to freezing, with snowfall even occurring in the mountainous ranges. Being a desert country there is very little rainfall but when it rains, it pours and there can sometimes be flooding in the more urban areas that have poor drainage systems.

Religion:

Islam is the official religion and Shari’a (Islamic law) is the main source of legislation. Call to pray occurs five times a day, however, unlike other Middle Eastern countries the call to prayer puts everyday life to a standstill. For example, grocery stores will close, often leaving expats inside to continue shopping. Many religious holidays occur throughout the year, with varying social expectations. For example Muslims fast during daylight hours of Ramadan and feast late into the evenings. During these times, finding local eateries is difficult, however international hotels will still serve expats.

Language:

Arabic is the official language. However, English is widely spoken, especially within hospitals with interpreters readily available. Older generations may not have as proficient English as younger locals. Most hospitals offer free Arabic courses when you arrive and there are also some great apps available now to assist you with the language. Once you’re immersed in the language you’d be surprised how quickly you pick it up.

Food:

You’ll never go hungry in Saudi with a wide array of cuisine available. In addition to the traditional Middle Eastern food of meat, rice, dates and those delicious spices, you’ll also find the creamy aromas of European cuisine, the tantalising spices of India and Asia, the delectable shared plates of Africa. From a local shwarma (similar to a kebab) to the 5 star international Michelin restaurants, Saudi has something for everyone. You can buy most of the same groceries as you do at home as many familiar food brands are sold in Saudi Arabia. Local fresh fruit & veg is excellent. Those who are vegetarian or eat a gluten free diet, don’t worry, Saudi Arabia has you covered with plenty of options.

Clothing:

Traditionally, clothing is steeped in the value of modesty. The usual image of a Saudi Arabian woman is a long black cloak, however, with changing fashion trends you will find that the Abayas now a days are quite colourful. For local women this is a personal choice and can vary from the full face covering (niqab)¸ the head covering (hijab), or a simple abaya covering just the body. Expat women are not required to cover their faces or hair, however were previously required to wear the abaya. In recent months this has changed people are slowly transitioning to more western styled clothes with long tops, long skirt or pants.  For local men you’ll find they wear a long white garment similar to a robe (thobe). This is often accompanied by a head covering called the Ghutrah. Expat men are expected to wear long pants in local areas with sleeved tops.

Transport:

The roads in Saudi Arabia, particularly large cities like Riyadh, are intense, with lots of traffic, limited road rules and, unfortunately, accidents are common. As such, many international residents in Saudi do not drive. However, taxis, Uber or personal car services with drivers are very common and inexpensive. Local bus and train services are also available. Interstate these are relatively easy to navigate however within the city expats don’t often utilise them due to the complicated network and language difference. A new metro within the capital city of Riyadh is in the process of being built which will increase the public transport options throughout the city.

Nursing In Saudi Arabia & Abu Dhabi – Grace’s Story

February 26, 2020/in Advice & Tips, Middle East, Nursing, Saudi Arabia /by CCM

Q & A Nursing Overseas With Grace Hung 

Where are you from? 

Hong Kong is my hometown, while I have been in Australia since 2006.

Can you give us a snapshot of your nursing career thus far? 

I completed by Bachelor of Nursing in University of Wollongong. I have been working as a registered nurse for ten years in Wollongong, Sydney Metro, NSW Rural, Riyadh – Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi – UAE.

When & where did you travel to the Middle East?  

I spent a year in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2014-2015 & 2.5 years in Abu Dhabi, UAE in 2016-2019.

When and why did you decide it was time to take your nursing career abroad? 

I love travelling. Hong Kong is an international city that is so easy to travel around, but unless I work there for a year and take the exams I am unable to practice nursing there. So I went elsewhere.  I was inspired by my colleagues that were working in the Middle East. It allowed me to have a stable income, with travel at my fingertips. Within 4-8 hours I can visit Africa and Europe! If I continued to work in Australia, to make the long haul flight and flight tickets worth the money, I have to take a month or two off to see those countries.

After you finished your one year in Saudi, you moved to Abu Dhabi to work in the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi? How was the culture & lifestyle of Abu Dhabi? 

Saudi was definitely a culture shock but the community there was so welcoming that it was a great way to experience something different. Abu Dhabi was a lot more western & an incredible mix of foreign cultures. Being a Muslim country there is still an Islamic theme but it’s very multicultural with everyone’s cultures being celebrated.  The UAE is often where expats across the Middle East go to for a long weekend and a bit of a break. 

How did the Cleveland Clinic help you transition into your new life in the UAE? What was the accommodation like? 

CCAD conducts a holistic orientation for everyone. They have hospital tour, city tour, and general orientation for all new comers. They also have specialised orientations for doctors, nurses, allied health, porters and even kitchen staff. CCAD has a high standard of practice. All nurses have to pass American competencies prior to working on the ward (but they provide intensive courses to help you pass the exam if you have failed the first one). They also had a lot of skills to be accredited once or annually. But, despite this, I never got stressed as the educators are always helpful and happy to assist.

The accommodation? My friends who came to visit me, they described it as a 5 star hotel. I was once living on level 56, with the clouds on the same level outside the windows. Prior to this, I was living on a 10-storey high building, which is 30mins drive/bus ride away from the hospital. They have different accommodations that suit different people with different preferences. And now, they even provide “opt-out” options for people to rent their own places with housing allowances.

What were the highlights of your time in the UAE? 

Should I stop mentioning the ease of travel? Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports are now the popular transiting airports people travelling from the east to the west or vice versa. Other than that, travel within the UAE is another kind of experience. I could be camping in the desert but an hour later I can reach the world tallest building with the biggest shopping mall in the Middle East.

I don’t tend to visit religious place while travelling, but the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is something that you should never miss out on. It’s absolutely stunning, but I do often wonder “how do they keep it so pristine & white after so many years?”

What were the challenges of working in the UAE and how did you manage these? 

The challenges would be around working in the multicultural environment. We, the Aussie or Kiwi nurse, always claim that we’re used to working in the multi-cultural environment, but I would say it’s different to what we experiencing the Middle East. In Aus/NZ we have an established medical/healthcare system, people from overseas have to adapt to our way and cope with the challenges of that themselves. In the Middle East, they are relying on overseas medical professionals bringing their medical knowledge into the country to improve and build up their system. With health professionals coming in from all over the world, bringing in their own ideas and knowledges, trying to fit into a Middle Eastern Culture that dates back to Bedouin times, cultural shock and clashes are inevitable.

How did you find nursing in another country? 

Nursing in another country can be challenging. Especially, when the practices in the country/facility are different from what I’m used to in Australia. Some practices, I found were more beneficial and evidence based so I would follow them. Other times, this was not the case. But I never hesitated to speak up when I had concerns or I thought there was a better way to get things done.

What career opportunities or professional development did you find there?  

When I was in Saudi, I was lucky to be nominated into the paediatric course for a month and become a paediatric nurse there. There were also Unit Based Councils in every unit where nurses could advocate for themselves and on behalf of the patients to improve the treatment and relationship as a whole.

When I was in Abu Dhabi, I had the opportunity to be trained for peri-transplants for both liver and kidney surgeries and also for bariatric surgery.

Both hospitals always had good elective courses that I could take on my own desire, like wound care, peritoneal dialysis etc.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of travelling to the Middle East? 

No matter where we live or work, there are always challenges. Working in the Middle East itself can be a shocking one, but if you go in with an open mind and learn to just chill from time to time, it will allow you to see beyond the culture shock and appreciate the many benefits the region has to offer.

Grace Hung: Saudi Arabia 2014-2015, Abu Dhabi 2016 -2019.

grace@ccmrecruitment.com.au

Nursing In Saudi Arabia – Kaitlyn’s Story

February 26, 2020/in Advice & Tips, Middle East, Nursing, Saudi Arabia /by CCM

Q&A – Saudi

Where are you from? 

Australia

When did you travel to the Middle East? 

May 2019

When and why did you decide it was time to take your nursing career abroad? 

January 2019 I decided to travel abroad, I enjoyed my nursing career in Australia but many nursing colleagues had suggested I should experience nursing outside of home.

Why did you choose Saudi Arabia as your destination? 

King Faisal Hospital. It is Magnet accredited and to achieve that standard outside of the U.S is an achievement of pro-active nursing professionals

What was the reaction of your parents and friends when you told them and how did you manage that? 

Surprise but then very supportive

What was your first week like in Saudi? 

Very exciting but nervous

When you move to another country, there’s so many factors in play – culture shock, making friends, adjusting to a new job, the list goes on….How did you find the transition from you’re home country to the Middle East? 

A challenge but thankfully I made friends with the new arrivals and I was given a lot of support by my colleagues in the unit I was assigned too.

Was there a big culture shock? What affected you the most and how did you adapt to this? 

The culture shock was not as big as I thought, some aspects I was new too, but again the friends I made supported me through it.

You’re currently working for the King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre I Riyadh – How did the hospital help with the transition? 

Very supportive team in King Faisal who guided me every step of the way.

What was the accommodation like? 

Very Modern and comfortable.

There’s a lot in the media about Saudi at the moment– do you feel safe? What has been your personal experience as a woman there? 

As a woman in Saudi Arabia I feel the same as I do in any country. There are the same dangers for women here as anywhere else. 

What part of your new life have you found the most surprising?

 How easy it is to start thinking of Saudi as home.

What are the positives of living in Saudi Arabia? 

Good weather, it is a very good location to travel the world from.

What is your most memorable moment so far? 

Seeing the different sites of Saudi Arabia eg the red sands and the desert camping sites 

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced and how have you manage them?

 Trying to communicate with people who don’t speak English or English is not their first language, but the hospital provides Arabic classes and staff are supportive in translation. 

How are you find nursing in another country? How are you adapting to the differences? 

Staff are very supported on the floor by their peers. Head and Assistant Head Nurse are also there and we have very helpful Clinical Instructors.

What career opportunities or professional development have you found there? 

They run many classes and courses to improve your career

How did you make friends? What is your social life like? What do you do on your days off? 

Sight see, travel, shop sports all the same as back home.

What were your goals before travelling to Saudi? Are you achieving what you set out to do or have these changed? 

To improve my nursing ability, learn new procedures, Travel, see the culture of the region.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of travelling to the Middle East? 

To come with an open mind. Be aware of current events but judge on your own assessment.

What is your overall opinion to date? 

So far very enjoyable, I would recommend this opportunity to anyone who is up for a challenge.

Kaitlyn Besso, Riyadh 2019 – current

CLEVELAND CLINIC ABU DHABI ARE HIRING

September 18, 2019/in Middle East, Nursing /by CCM

Fantastic Opportunities For Critical Care, Cardiac ICU & Neuro ICU Nurses

Come be a part of history, enjoy the benefits of working in a state-of-the-art facility with innovative technology and numerous amenities to support both patients and caregivers.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, a Mubadala Company, is a world-class multi-speciality hospital on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Established as a unique and unparalleled extension of the US-based Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi provides patients in the UAE with direct access to the world’s best healthcare providers and some of the most advanced medical care, helping to reduce the need for patients to travel abroad for treatment. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is a 364 (expandable to 490) bed hospital, with five clinical floors, three diagnostic and treatment levels plus 13 floors of critical and acute inpatient units.  The facilities at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi combine state-of-the-art amenities and world-class service standards.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has five Centres of Excellence, in the following Institutes: Heart & Vascular, Neurological, Digestive Disease, Eye and Respiratory & Critical Care. Other Institutes will include Surgical Sub-specialities, Medical Sub-specialities, Emergency Medicine, Anaesthesiology, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Imaging, and Quality & Patient Safety. In all, more than 30 medical and surgical specialities are represented at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.

Requirements:

  • Minimum of two (2) years current clinical experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in Nursing or equivalent qualification (minimum three (3) year curriculum) in Nursing from an accredited program is required/ Associate Degree Nurses from North America with evidence of passing the National exam is required (USA: NCLEX – RN & Canada: Licensing Exam)
  • Valid and current national license is required

To apply for these great positions email Deirdre on deirdre.meagher@ccmrecruitment.com

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