The Middle East is a very important region due to its economic, religious, and geographical location and thousands of foreigners work here every year. Each country in this region is unique with different ethnic groups, religious beliefs, and political history.
Economically, the Middle East is known for its vast oil reserves. But countries here are developing and adapting every year and now countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are improving their tourism infrastructure which is generating new jobs and career prospects for local and international workers.
Latest Vacancies
International TEFL and TESOL Training
Take a TEFL certification course with International TEFL and TESOL Training and get a recognised qualification to teach English in the Middle East.
Reasons to Work in the Middle East
• Choice of jobs
• Salaries and job packages can be lucrative
• Most countries are very safe
• Cities like Dubai are very modern
• There is a warm climate all year round
Best Places to Work in the Middle East
There are 18 countries in the Middle East which include: Bahrain, Cyprus, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and Yemen.
Sometimes, other countries are included in the concept of the “Greater Middle East”, these include Afghanistan, the Comoros, Djibouti, Maghreb, Pakistan, Sudan, and Somalia.
Where you go really depends on your interests, skills, salary requirements and comfort zone.
Jobs for Foreigners and English Speakers in the Middle East
These are some of the top industries and places to get hired:
Teach English
One of the most popular ways for foreigners to get a visa and work in the Middle East is by teaching English. Public schools, universities, language schools and private companies hire thousands of TEFL and ESL teachers every year. One of the main allure is the competitive salaries and packages available to international teachers which sometimes includes free flights and accommodation.
Travel, Tourism & Gap Year Jobs
Working in the Middle East on a gap year is a popular option but placements are limited compared to other continents. Teaching is your best option for an extended stay.
Seasonal jobs
Due to the visa and entry requirements for foreigners finding short term and temporary work is difficult. There are seasonal positions available within the tourism and hospitality industries, thousands of staff are hired to work in these industries every year.
Professional
Some of largest companies which are recommended to work for in this region include:
GBM Bahrain, Lundbeck Egypt, Astrazeneca Lebanon, Novo Nordisk Kuwait, Novo Nordisk Saudi Arabia, Qetaifan Projects Qatar, Astrazeneca Egypt, Astrazeneca Jordan, Johnson & Johnson Saudi Arabia, MSD Animal Health Egypt, Astrazeneca Iraq, Etihad Credit Export Insurance United Arab Emirates, Parkville Egypt, Tamkeen Technologies Saudi Arabia, International Maritime Industries Saudi Arabia, Al Safi Danone Saudi Arabia, Johnson & Johnson Egypt, MSD Animal Health Saudi Arabia, Teleperformance Egypt and Ooredoo Oman.
Volunteer Work
There are some volunteering programs in the Middle East open to international participants which is a great way to get cultural immersion, improve your language skills and do something beneficial.
FAQ
Is the Middle East safe?
Crime rates in the Middle East are very very low especially in the countries with most tourists like the UAE. You may encounter small petty crime in places like Cairo but it’s nothing to be worried about. Terrorist and attacks against westerners are very rare. Some countries are not safe like Syria but this isn’t a place we promote working.
Average working hours
Most people in the Middle East work around 8 hours per day, around 40-50 hours per week. This is in-line with western countries.
Salaries
Salaries in the Middle East are usually very high for world standards, although it really depends on the employer and position. Saudi Arabia is considered to be the highest paying country. Also tax in the Middle East is generally a lot lower than other continents.
Cultural awareness
The Middle East is very conservative and local laws and customs can be very different to those in the west. When working here, you will need to research cultural rules and respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times.