Question from Job Seeker:
I’m a Middle Eastern professional who has been living and working abroad for over 15 years. I’ve been considering moving back to the Middle East in search of a good opportunity that offers me and my family stability and financial independence. But the recent changes that have been taking place in almost every part of the region have left me very hesitant. I can no longer tell whether moving back now is still a wise decision to make. What do you think? And should I aim for specific countries (I am Egyptian and was eyeing Egypt to be frank).
Answer from HR Guru:
Perfect Timing! We are happy to share with you a few of our latest findings extracted from a recent Bayt.com poll that we conducted in light of the changes that have been happening across the region. Bayt.com’s poll about “Change and Challenge in the Middle East Job Market: How is it viewed?” will undoubtedly help you view clearly what the current situation in the region has entailed in terms of employment market and economical stability and then assess your options in order to make more confident decision.
While it might come to you as a surprise, an overwhelming 65.1% of polled respondents across the Middle East said they believe now is a good time to be living and working in the Middle East, and 42.2% said it actually is a better time than EVER before!
Furthermore, it seems change in the region has triggered positive vibes beyond expectations spreading optimism across all countries, as 65.1% of polled professionals regionally expressed their optimism about their career prospects and 64.7% expressed the same about their country’s economy.
While you are not the only one wondering if there are specific preferred countries to be targeted for relocation purposes, the truth is your homeland, Egypt, as per our “Change and Challenge in the Middle East Job Market” poll results appears to be the most optimistic Middle Eastern country after the recent changes with 56% of polled respondents in Egypt stating they definitely expect to see economic improvements in their country following the recent happenings.
All in all, your decision to move to the Middle East should be nothing but beneficial to you and your family provided you aim for a competitive package that satisfies your individual and family needs and meets your personal and professional expectations (remember to look closely not only at salary offered but also at allowances re: training and development, transportation, national security, insurance, housing allowance, vacation, education allowance for the kids, etc ..) To know exactly what your experience and qualifications are worth in the Middle Eastern job market today, visit our unique state-of-the-art Bayt Salaries section: https://www.bayt.com/salaries ).
Good luck!