Working in Dubai

[air pig]

I am comtemplating working in Dubai, not in the aviation industry, mores the pity, but as a nurse.
Can anyone tell me of the pitfalls or advantages of working there, before I go any further.
My prospective employer appears to offer a good all in package, working for an internationally recognised hospital which is expanding, and looking at their web site it looks good.
Iwould love to hear from anyone who works for Emirates, who is based in the City.

[Croozin]

airpig, the first question any likely respondent is going to ask is "which hospital?" It will make all the difference in the world to the answers you will receive.

[air pig]

I am looking at the American hospital in central Dubai.

[AutoAbort]

Hi Airpig!

My knowledge about the different hospitals here in Dubai is very limited, but I had a chat a few days ago with one of the nurses from another hospital and according to her the American hospital is absolutely one of the better ones. Not much info but I hope it helps a little bit.

regards,

AutoAbort

[Croozin]

air pig, like AytoAbort, my info is second hand. (Been a patient there, but am not a medical professional.) From what I've heard and seen as a patient, I think you've chosen the pick of the crop of hospitals in Dubai.

[air pig]

My thanks for the replys but anymore would be welcome.

[Desert Nomad]

Have to concur with the others. American is the best. Have known a few nurses in my time here and all were relieved when the American opened up. The Wellcare is the other decent one but believe their package is not as good as the American. Make sure they give you a housing allowanc but I suspect they will privde you with a shared appartment. Ticket home each year is essential. Transport allowance. This place isn't getting cheaper so try and negotiate as hard as possible with them.

At least you're close to The Lodge from there for a post shift beer or two. Then there is, dare I say it the Cyclone but best avoid that one....

[NO LAND 3]

I know two well very qualified western nurses (unknown to each other and at different times) who left the American hospital after only a few months each. Both because they felt professionally compromised, for example being required to work outside their area of competence etc. Pay, working hours and overtime requirements are also inferior to what you may be used to. The shiny presentation certainly looks good but like many things in Dubai under the surface it has its problems. Don't rely too much on the opinion of friends you may have who work there, there is a tendency as an expat to 'talk up' the experience to justify their own decisions.
Having said that it is a nice modern building.