Physician/ Consultant Jobs in Saudi Arabia
Professional Connections recruits Consultant Hospital Doctors, Physicians and Surgeons for the leading referral Hospitals in The Middle East.
View job listing here
Our client Hospitals include: King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh. King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah. National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, Jeddah, Damman, Al Hasa and Al Madinah. Security Forces Hospitall, Riyadh. Military MODA hospitals and King Saud Medical City.
Working as a Healthcare Professional in Saudi Arabia
What is the contract term required?
Contracts in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere in the Middle East are generally one or two year renewable contracts.. Married status contracts are offered medical staff.
What are the salaries? is the salary really tax free?
Salaries in Saudi Arabia vary depending on the hospital you work in, the experience you have and the Country you are recruited from. Most hospitals base their salary and allowances on rates prevailing in the recruit's country of origin, i.e. US, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle and Far East. The salary and benefit package for the post you apply for will be advised on initial application. Salaries are normally paid at the end of each month in Saudi Riyals (SR) directly into the employee's local bank account. The hospitals assist you in opening a bank account. You can transfer money, pay your bills etc., as you do now with Internet banking.
Yes the salary is tax free. There are no taxes on earnings, good or services in Saudi Arabia , but you should check any reciprocal arrangements with your home country.
What are the working hours?
The working hours are 44 hours per week plus on call.
What are the benefits?
Tax free salary*
Free fully furnished accommodation and utilities
Free medical coverage
Yearly service award (re-contracting Bonus)
Free mobilization (arrival) and de-mobilization (final departure) flights to and from point of origin and yearly round trip flight ticket to point of hire
Free transportation services
Baggage allowance
Free uniform & laundry
Free recreation services (Gym, pools, tennis, etc)
Availability of on job training & courses
Merit increase upon renewal of contract, maximum of 6%
Availability of promotion & transfer
Overtime pay (rate per hour 150%)
Saudi Service Award (Consisting of one-half months basic salary for each of the first five years of service and one month basic salary for each year of services thereafter)
Six-ten weeks annual vacation
Does Profco give tax advise?
No, we do not have a tax/ financial expert to advise you. Tax laws vary from country to country, and as we recruit candidates from all over the world, we cannot be experts with the tax laws of all jurisdictions. We advise all candidates who secure offers to obtain independent financial advice.
Do I get free health care?
Yes free medical care and emergency dental care for you and your dependents.
Do I need indemnity work insurance?
As in other countries, your employer covers work insurance.
How do I open a Bank account and how to I transfer my money?
Opening a bank account is very straightforward. You will first need to obtain your Iquama which is like a resident/ ID card. The first time you go to the bank it will take some time to set up your account, internet banking etc. just the same as in your home country. After this, you can transfer money on line or through ATM machines which are located in the hospital and elsewhere.
You will get a debit card so you can use ATMs for cash - just like back home.
Banking is as sophisticated and easy as it is in your home country. We advise to have enough money in your account at home to cover your first month bills or invoices while you are waiting to open your bank account in Saudi.
I do not have a European or Australian Passport can I be hired?
Hospitals in Saudi Arabia contract recruitment agencies world wide. Each agency has its own geographical territory that they source nurses from. Professional Connections is contracted to recruit European, Australian, New Zealand, US and Canadian and South Africian passport holders only, so we can only process your application if you hold one of these passports. Otherwise you have to contact your local agent.
Do I need to pass an English Language test?
Yes. Your English skills need to be good enough for safe and effective practice. Professional Connections will give you a test that tests grammar, listening and medical terminology.
How long does the process take?
For Consultant hospital doctors four to six months. Sometimes the hospitals will bring you on a locum first for four weeks. If you are then approved for a perm post it will take another 3- 5 months for you to prepare to leave your current post and take up a perm post in Saudi Arabia.
How am I interviewed?
You will first have a prescreening interview by our recruitera. Then once you have completed the required paperwork your file will be sent to the hospital for the Chairman of the department to review. Once you are shortlisted your file will then be reviewed by a credentialing committee. You will then be offered a locum for four weeks. This is a working locum whereby you will be assessed for a perm post. The locum is single status.
What will I be asked at interview?
You will be asked general questions about why you want to work in Saudi Arabia, about your work experience and also some clinical questions related to your specialty.
How long are the contracts?
The minimum is one year, but you can sign two years initially as well. Your contract can also be extended on site.
Does the hospital pay my flight tickets?
Yes, the hospital will pay your mobilisation flight from your nearest international airport and your demobilisation flight at the end of your contract. If you recontract you get one extra flight.
Does the hospital supply accommodation?
Yes, the accommodation is supplied free-of-charge and includes all furniture and free utilities.
How much vacation do I have?
You have 50- 54 days leave in one year depending on the hospital.
When can I take my vacation?
You have to first complete your 90-day probationary period. During this time you can only get leave for an emergency situation. After the probationary period, you can schedule your leave with your ward manager as the schedule allows.
Do I get holiday flights?
Some hospitals offer one ticket mid contract.
Do I get free health care?
Yes, except dental care (which is emergency only). The hospital provides free health care for you including vaccinations.
You will undergo a thorough medical examination prior to employment. If you have any risk factor you are unlikely to be approved.
Can I take my family?
Yes on the perm post. The number of dependents supported on your contract to be negotiated upon approval. Your spouse and dependents have to be with you in Saudi Arabia for 240 days per year to be entitled to a married status contract.
Can my family visit me?
Yes, they can get a visa for 90 days at any one time the hospital will facilitate this for you. However, you will be responsible yourself for all costs associated with their trip and the hospital does not supply accommodation.
Is there support for employees against the employer?
Yes, the Saudi Labour Court strongly defends employees.
Can I leave if I do not like it?
Yes, at any time, but ideally giving one month notice.
As a woman can I walk around freely ?
Yes, you can go anywhere on your own at any time. All the hospitals have drivers to take you places and you can take a taxi that will be outside your housing.
What can I do on my time off?
Everything you would do at home!
- Shopping in the old town or any of the numerous shopping complexes
- Eating out
- Numerous sporting activities: tennis, diving, golf, horse riding, gym, football, drama, various book clubs...
The list is endless!
What is the working language of the hospital?
Patients are mostly Arabic speaking, but the working language is English. The Hospitals provide Arabic courses and you are encouraged to attend these courses.
Can I continue my education ?
Yes, the hospitals have very strong links with universities in US, UK and Australia. Most overseas nurses set up their courses with Universities in their home country and do courses online. Online medical libraries from around the world are available from the hospital.
How do I contact you?
If you have a cv/ resume up to date please send or Send an email with your expression of interest to jobs@profco.com and we will organise a time to call you.