Irish30s

Hi all,

I've been reading this thread now for a good while. Really interesting and to be honest, quite hilarious (Co Durham chap especially).

You get a lot of these questions, but I'm going to put it straight out there for you. I'm basically stuck in two minds having been offered a job in Doha. Here's the summary:

- IT Analyst
- 45k per month (Riyal)
- Package Includes: House, Medical, Transport
- Married No children
- 30 years old.
- We both like to go out/socialise.
- The aim of the game is to save up for at least two years with the wife and then move back to London or Dublin.
- I have been to Doha many times, but only from Hotel to office.

So? That looks alright?

My question to you guys/girls who are out there...

- What do you think?
- Would you do it in my shoes having experienced Doha?
- Given the salary is about 4x what I'm on, it's a great way to save up, no?
- Will we get VERY bored out there and regret it?
- Will I still be eligible for tax free pay? (I'm a UK resident technically at the moment)

Basically, any tips/advice from you guys would be great.

Cheers in advance and thanks for all the info so far.

Kix

I'd do it without even thinking, providing the company issue you a multi entry visa and is half decent

Millhouse

Is that 45k + housing, or 45k with the housing? Either way, it's a no brainer. Just remember the wife may not get a job easily and she'll be bored shitless if she doesn't.

Irish30s

That's 45 + housing. Is that good? It seems to be but I keep seeing various debates on salary ranges. Yeah, I am quite worried about the wife getting bored shitless. But there are a few sport/hobby clubs and get togethers I see?

Well from two main contributors, that seems like positive feedback.

I take it, the only difficulty will be the timeline, so the ability to actually leave after 2 years? I'll need my sponsor to agree sign this? I don't really want to set this is a factor in the original contract as it may scare them off.

Kix - thanks for your reply. Quick question - Multi entry visa, could you briefly explain?

Kix

Dunno why the colours didn't come through.

Exit visa, if you get a multi entry/exit one you don't need your sponsors permission to leave. I personally wouldn't feel happy taking a job without one.

Take a look at the case of the French Footballer recently, he couldn't leave as his sponsor refused to give him an exit visa.

Apparently it's "Not a problem" if you don't have one, but I'd rather have the security of a multi entry/exit one.

Irish30s

Such good advice. Thank you very much. I will look in to that option and make sure I get it.

Thanks again.

kittycat1

Irish, I never ever thought I would say this, but I think it's quite rare for people to stay the amount of time they thought they would. I came to dubai adamant that I would stay for 3 years- I'm now here just over 4 and not planning on leaving just yet. I've hit my original saving target but am pushing it as to be honest I know once back in London saving money is nigh on impossible. It's known as the golden cage!

So I wouldn't tell your employer your plans as you never know what your plans might change to.

DustyBits

Likewise, we came to the Middle East for 2-3 years and are now in our 10th, with a plan to do 4-5 more!

DB

Millhouse

45k + housing is a great deal. Pilots don't get this much nor do many people with families.

As for the wife - she'll have to think about options a bit, but if she isn't career minded, then she can be an assistant or something and get some pocket change. It hardly matters really from a financial point of view.

OriginalSunshine

45k + housing for a couple with no kids is great- you'll have a great time, and even if you find Doha a bit sticky, there's loads to do outside of Qatar (hence needing multi entry/exit)

britexpat76

You will be fine here, its not the boredom that gets you its dealing with halfwits, liars and quarterwits day in day out.

You will be able to save half what you are earning leading a pretty active social life.

Inselaffen

but maybe he won't be using the bored once he gets out here!

rayamti

Most Europeans countries get visa upon entry to countries like UAE, Oman and Bahrain.. Dubai is about 55 min by plane, or you can drive if you feel like it which is about 6 hours i think (not sure about Saudi border situaion). However i strongly recommend checking the work permit visa if you do decided to cut ties earlier than agreed. I dont expect an issue as regulations may have relaxed in the past few years. Doha has a nice community.
As for housing check online on prices of 5* hotel appartments, complexes and just empty apartments you can rent out. As that would make the biggest difference for you when you look at ur savings plan.

rayamti

Irish, pls check this thread may help

http://britishexpats.com/forum/showthread.php?t=762609