Many individuals choose to work in the region, but what are the key driving forces? Could a job in the Middle East be right for you? In this blog post, we take a closer look at why it is that so many people are happy with their work and lifestyle in the Middle East.
Earning potential
There’s absolutely no doubt that there is the potential to earn great money when taking work in Iraq, Kurdistan or Iran. A shortage of skills means that employers are often prepared to pay a premium and account is also taken of the need to relocate yourself and your family.
As a result of these factors, it’s reasonable to expect that you will be well paid for your work. Some people see a role in the Middle East as being a stepping stone to a new life: for example, they may opt for a relatively short-term contract and then save money as they go along, aiming to raise enough money to start a business, or to set themselves up for years to come. Others find that they enjoy the experience so much that they remain for a much longer time period, reaping the rewards.
Meeting new people
Working abroad naturally brings you into contact with those who have lived in the region for many years, together with others who are in the same situation as you. You’ll quickly meet new people and make friends. The shared experiences often lead to bonds that will last for a lifetime and those special relationships are part of the mix involved in working overseas.
Seeing new places
The ability to experience new cultures, to see wonderful architecture and to really become immersed in a new country can really have a transformative impact upon your life. If you are the sort of person that revels in new situations, with a love of travel, then working overseas offers a wealth of opportunities.
Each of the countries within the region has its own, distinct history and appeal. A new life in the Middle East offers the chance to explore, expanding your own horizons.
Embracing career challenges
You may feel that you are competent at what you do currently, but is there a danger that you are coasting somewhat and failing to really develop your skills as a result? The nature of working in the Middle East is such that you can often expect to be given more responsibilities and you may find yourself working within a flatter organisational structure than you are used to. What this means is that there’s often scope for you to take on more authority and to progress your career at a more rapid rate than might otherwise be the case.
In the second blog post on this subject, we’ll consider further opportunities.