From what I understand, The pay increase only went to those on the payroll at the time. The other little sting was that the cunning omani chaps then changed the contract structure from a basic salary of 3000OMR to 1960OMR plus allowances. What this did was reduce any payrise by nearly 40%. This was not the offer when they recruited and it has quite a few people off-side. The cost of schooling is rising for those who have kids and rents cost the average family 600OMR per month.
Let's face it, how many people would come to the desert if they were pocketing the same amount of money in their home country - not many is my guess. I am considering jumping into the sandpit for two reasons - money and the experience. I am sure it would be a fascinating place to live and experience and to travel to other parts of the world. But hey, the same money in your pocket at the end of the day back home. I wouldn't leave but then again, that ain't happen'n either.
Thanks for the posts though - very helpful.
