SERCO AUH / ALN - what happened ??
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Uranus
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Radar Pete
3. Hey Bob, cut out the insults and please explain what is so 'typically South African' with which you go on and contradict yourself in the same sentence. I hope you are not one of those that puts people in boxes with lables on?
All you South Africans complain about Serco and its management. None of you guys actually do anything about it, which means stand up and fight. You're too scared to lose your job because you're here for the money only. So there's a lot of talk but no action. Another thing, why is it that Serco management (any level above the normal ATCO position) is packed with South Africans? Is it because they are the best qualified for the job (which some of them are) or is it because they will do what their manager tell them to do (just like a puppy)? Up to you to decide. And that's my point Radar Pete, call it insult if you want and yes I put you guys in one box with a SA label on it written across "handle with care"
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: Somewhere out there...
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
For everybody thats bitching about conditions, pay and allowances in UAE, one word:
Repatriate.
The vast majority of us are here as contract ATC's. That means contract money. Some of you spend your time bashing everything anyone says or does. Remember what you signed up for. Nobody is forcing you to take the accomodation allowance. Use the company provided flat. If you don't like that, remember that is what you agreed to in the beginning.
For some, it is quite bearable here with a good package. Clearly for some, they are not happy with the package, and/or conditions, and are determined to infect those that are.
Give it a break. Move the blips or move out. Period.
@ Bob, I wouldn't want to guess your nationality... You seem to generalise about SAfricans, I wonder about your type...
@ Dusto, the conditions aren't as bad as some of these 'types' make it out to be. Nobody is being forced to stay here against their will.
Repatriate.
The vast majority of us are here as contract ATC's. That means contract money. Some of you spend your time bashing everything anyone says or does. Remember what you signed up for. Nobody is forcing you to take the accomodation allowance. Use the company provided flat. If you don't like that, remember that is what you agreed to in the beginning.
For some, it is quite bearable here with a good package. Clearly for some, they are not happy with the package, and/or conditions, and are determined to infect those that are.
Give it a break. Move the blips or move out. Period.
@ Bob, I wouldn't want to guess your nationality... You seem to generalise about SAfricans, I wonder about your type...
@ Dusto, the conditions aren't as bad as some of these 'types' make it out to be. Nobody is being forced to stay here against their will.
Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: UAE
Posts: 67
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
URC Where have you been hiding???
My sentiments exactly, you beat me to it.
To all others - It fails me that you except a contract and then complain about it. Did you not do your research before coming out? You signed it, maybe dig out the contract, blow the dust off and read it.
Stop acting like little Prima Donnas and like URC says:
My sentiments exactly, you beat me to it.
To all others - It fails me that you except a contract and then complain about it. Did you not do your research before coming out? You signed it, maybe dig out the contract, blow the dust off and read it.
Stop acting like little Prima Donnas and like URC says:
Give it a break. Move the blips or move out. Period.
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: On the border...
Posts: 82
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
It fails me that you except a contract
except ..preposition...leaving or taking out. They all went except me.
...or did you really mean "accept" as in
accept .. verb .. to take or receive something willingly.
Sorry if you think I am being picky but there is a world of difference between the two.
...Robert
All you South Africans complain about Serco and its management. None of you guys actually do anything about it, which means stand up and fight. You're too scared to lose your job because you're here for the money only. So there's a lot of talk but no action. Another thing, why is it that Serco management (any level above the normal ATCO position) is packed with South Africans? Is it because they are the best qualified for the job (which some of them are) or is it because they will do what their manager tell them to do (just like a puppy)?
If they cared the slightest about their employees they certainly wouldn't allow smoking in the workplace over the objections of non smoking employees. In fact, given the huge court settlements being made these days to passive smokers I am surprised the financial penalties have not scared Serco into banning smoking in the workplace anyway.
I guess the fact that the contract manager smokes could have something to do with it
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Uranus
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
TO:
Radar Pete and UnderRadarControl.
Sorry if I'm being too hard on you guys
I only generalise South Africans in ATC, the only SAs I know basically. Most of them, well all of them actually, doesn't stand up for what they believe (facts, right? Scared to get into trouble?).
Yes, most ATCOs can leave when no longer happy here and get a job somewhere else in ATC (can the SAs? I mean, not many wants to go back, right?). I feel sorry for your system back home in SA.
About the contract. Well I believe everyone knows what they signed up for = a contract with terms and conditions etc. But you'll never know for sure what you'll get before actually living here. I remember them (Serco) being very very friendly on the phone before signing the contract and once here, well that's history
They do a lot for you and pay a lot of money like, salary, tickets, medicals (?), transport to work, utilities, and even housing (did I say that?). End of the day they have to! (not even the SAs would come for the salary only, or?) Otherwise they have to increase the salary to around the double to match other ATC suppliers (right?). Like Muscat, they give you one package to ALL ATCOs, then it's up to you to decide what to do with it. No differrent if you're married with children. Same package!
Take it easy and enjoy the sun. Another day another dollar right?
Radar Pete and UnderRadarControl.
Sorry if I'm being too hard on you guys
I only generalise South Africans in ATC, the only SAs I know basically. Most of them, well all of them actually, doesn't stand up for what they believe (facts, right? Scared to get into trouble?).
Yes, most ATCOs can leave when no longer happy here and get a job somewhere else in ATC (can the SAs? I mean, not many wants to go back, right?). I feel sorry for your system back home in SA.
About the contract. Well I believe everyone knows what they signed up for = a contract with terms and conditions etc. But you'll never know for sure what you'll get before actually living here. I remember them (Serco) being very very friendly on the phone before signing the contract and once here, well that's history
They do a lot for you and pay a lot of money like, salary, tickets, medicals (?), transport to work, utilities, and even housing (did I say that?). End of the day they have to! (not even the SAs would come for the salary only, or?) Otherwise they have to increase the salary to around the double to match other ATC suppliers (right?). Like Muscat, they give you one package to ALL ATCOs, then it's up to you to decide what to do with it. No differrent if you're married with children. Same package!
Take it easy and enjoy the sun. Another day another dollar right?
Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: UAE
Posts: 67
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
African Queen
You are quite correct and accept you being picky.
I disagree with what you and Bob have to say about SAfricans, you are welcome to your opinions and also welcome to keep all derogatory opinions to yourselves.
Bob, you are assuming URC is a South African. Personally I wouldn't know and neither would I assume!!!
The SA system has improved dramatically over the years and ATC's appear to be on a good wicket. Generally speaking the system is of a high standard. The systems are latest generation and appear to be on track. Managers, the bad ones, have been replaced, and life goes on. The comapany is still in its infancy and is improving (like a good SA red). SA's are enjoying it here, like many other nationalities.
Essentially Serco is running a contract. Staff come and go, loyalty amongst staff is not big. Serco is only to aware of the constant turnover of staff which is very natural for this region. Many people plan to only come out for a couple of years before returning home. Serco will always be friendly over the phone, they want bums in seats. I think a lot of guys come over with very high expectations with regards to money and lifestyle and are then dissappointed in what they get.
Muscat is different and personally like the place but would not consider living there. The environment is totally diffferent to the UAE, likewise with Bahrain, it must be noted that Bahrain is generally more expensive that the UAE. We all have choices and if Muscat or Bahrain beckons go for it. Word is Muscat is calling and Doha also has plans.
For once, Bob, will take heed of your advice and enjoy the sun.
Totsiens
You are quite correct and accept you being picky.
I disagree with what you and Bob have to say about SAfricans, you are welcome to your opinions and also welcome to keep all derogatory opinions to yourselves.
Bob, you are assuming URC is a South African. Personally I wouldn't know and neither would I assume!!!
The SA system has improved dramatically over the years and ATC's appear to be on a good wicket. Generally speaking the system is of a high standard. The systems are latest generation and appear to be on track. Managers, the bad ones, have been replaced, and life goes on. The comapany is still in its infancy and is improving (like a good SA red). SA's are enjoying it here, like many other nationalities.
Essentially Serco is running a contract. Staff come and go, loyalty amongst staff is not big. Serco is only to aware of the constant turnover of staff which is very natural for this region. Many people plan to only come out for a couple of years before returning home. Serco will always be friendly over the phone, they want bums in seats. I think a lot of guys come over with very high expectations with regards to money and lifestyle and are then dissappointed in what they get.
Muscat is different and personally like the place but would not consider living there. The environment is totally diffferent to the UAE, likewise with Bahrain, it must be noted that Bahrain is generally more expensive that the UAE. We all have choices and if Muscat or Bahrain beckons go for it. Word is Muscat is calling and Doha also has plans.
For once, Bob, will take heed of your advice and enjoy the sun.
Totsiens
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: The Gulf
Posts: 176
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Radar Pete,
Just interested in your last comment. I know about the Doha situation but surprised about Muscat.
Are they looking for Area or ADC/APR people?
Any info gratefully received.
Cheers,
Red Dragon
Just interested in your last comment. I know about the Doha situation but surprised about Muscat.
Are they looking for Area or ADC/APR people?
Any info gratefully received.
Cheers,
Red Dragon
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: Somewhere out there...
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Yes Bob - don't assume. Remember, assumption is the mother of all 
. We could sit and call each other names all day too, I am not.
As far as you claim the SAfricans are too afraid to lose their job, its probably because they are here for the money - last time I checked that was what the majority of the chaps out here on contract are for.
Remember the saying "When in Rome, do as the Romans do". Well, now we are all in Rome. If a local wants to smoke in the radar hall, I guess he is going to. Forget the Contract Manager (maybe this rule suits him), but I sincerely doubt ANYBODY is going to go to the higher management (locals) and say, 'Our expats don't like the cigarette smoke in the centre'. This isn't your home country where smoking has probably been outlawed in public places/buildings. I could probably imagine the response to that complaint. (And I don't smoke).
It all comes down to research about this place before you came here. I came out here before I signed my contract, so I had a good idea of what to expect. Anyone that didn't make the trip made a BIG gamble.
Take care now
UnderRadarControl
. We could sit and call each other names all day too, I am not.As far as you claim the SAfricans are too afraid to lose their job, its probably because they are here for the money - last time I checked that was what the majority of the chaps out here on contract are for.
Remember the saying "When in Rome, do as the Romans do". Well, now we are all in Rome. If a local wants to smoke in the radar hall, I guess he is going to. Forget the Contract Manager (maybe this rule suits him), but I sincerely doubt ANYBODY is going to go to the higher management (locals) and say, 'Our expats don't like the cigarette smoke in the centre'. This isn't your home country where smoking has probably been outlawed in public places/buildings. I could probably imagine the response to that complaint. (And I don't smoke).
It all comes down to research about this place before you came here. I came out here before I signed my contract, so I had a good idea of what to expect. Anyone that didn't make the trip made a BIG gamble.
Take care now
UnderRadarControl
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: next door to the pub
Posts: 191
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Now now chaps, handbags at twenty paces
Serco rules do not allow smoking in the work place. Doesn't matter who it is, they are not permitted and should be pulled up over it. In Dubai the locals stick by the rules and smoke in the room provided (also get lost watching tv in there too
)
Speaking as some one who did vote with my feet, typically just before they came up with extra cash for you guys Yes we signed a contract but sight unseen. You don't know about the accomodation, schooling, cost of living until you get there. So you have a right to complain if you don't think it lives upto what you were sold. Plus to give no consideration to exchange rates is just insulting, something should have been done about that a long time ago.
As for South Africans, everyone is different and they have a different way of looking at things that is strange to outsiders but vive le difference (Go on AQ correct my french spelling ) The only guy from SA that really needs to put back in the boat is that fat on his throne in Abu Dhabi.
Sooner or later management have to realise that the high turn over of staff is costing them more in the long run than trying to retain staff long term. The sooner they start to look long term the better............ sorry the place is run by bean counters ....... how silly of me.
Rgds FT
Ps. Hey RD the Aberdeen Mafia not taking care of you these days
Serco rules do not allow smoking in the work place. Doesn't matter who it is, they are not permitted and should be pulled up over it. In Dubai the locals stick by the rules and smoke in the room provided (also get lost watching tv in there too
)Speaking as some one who did vote with my feet, typically just before they came up with extra cash for you guys
Yes we signed a contract but sight unseen. You don't know about the accomodation, schooling, cost of living until you get there. So you have a right to complain if you don't think it lives upto what you were sold. Plus to give no consideration to exchange rates is just insulting, something should have been done about that a long time ago.As for South Africans, everyone is different and they have a different way of looking at things that is strange to outsiders but vive le difference (Go on AQ correct my french spelling
) The only guy from SA that really needs to put back in the boat is that fat on his throne in Abu Dhabi.Sooner or later management have to realise that the high turn over of staff is costing them more in the long run than trying to retain staff long term. The sooner they start to look long term the better............ sorry the place is run by bean counters ....... how silly of me.
Rgds FT
Ps. Hey RD the Aberdeen Mafia not taking care of you these days
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: In the CIR
Posts: 115
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Dont know what the problem is back home or why some would be scared. Fact is, there are plenty of Saffers working elsewhere and more oppertunities are opening around the globe.
Yes, most ATCOs can leave when no longer happy here and get a job somewhere else in ATC (can the SAs? I mean, not many wants to go back, right?). I feel sorry for your system back home in SA.
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: Adrift upon the tides of fate
Posts: 1,840
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
The starting salary (after checking out) is 203000 dhs pa.
$1US= 3.67dhs, so depending on the exchange fluctuations (an important point if you have an AUD mortgage) it's about $75k AUD pa.
The 203k is made up of 173k salary, plus an ATC 'allowence' of 30k pa. So your gratuity etc is only calculated on the 173k. Also, the 'allowence' could be changed at any time, either up or down.
On top of this you receive:
8 weeks annual leave (though no leave loading). You must aquit the 8 weeks each calendar year, which is a blessing to most people (who used to work in places where you couldn't get your annual leave).
Semi-furnished accomodation, or the option to take an allowence (currently 60k pa for married with children- not enough to even think about moving out {rent is hideously expensive here}). The accomodation is in an apartment, of the company's choosing, and can be a source of grief. The company pays for water and electricity.
An allowence amount equivalent to the airfare home (unless the airlines increase it during the year, in which case you get not quite the airfare home). You can use the money any way you choose.
Medical coverage, of sorts. There are quite a few exclusions, and each visit to a doctor attracts a co-payment of 50dhs. Each time the medical cover is renewed, it gets a little skinnier, and less attractive.
The contract allows for 48hrs per week, but in reality you will work less. The typical pattern is MMAANNSOOO. M= 7.30-14.30, A= 2.30-22.30, N= 22.30-07.30, S= sleep. Currently, they 'crib' 2 days per month from you by giving you a MMAANNSOMMAANNSOOO pattern somewhere in the month. You do not get these days back. Also, stand-by blocks are rostered within the patterns, either replacing the Ms or As with a 48-continuous-hr standby, during which you could be called to replace, or add staff to, any shift. Opinions differ about whether stand-by duties are 'good', or not. Some see them as days off, others see them as an unpredictable pain.
The company provides you with transport to and from work.
You get a uniform.
UAE law stipulates that you receive gratuity when you resign, 3 weeks pay per year of service.
These are the basic facts of the terms and conditions. There are a lot of opinions about the place and the company, which I'm sure others will be only too happy to provide.
$1US= 3.67dhs, so depending on the exchange fluctuations (an important point if you have an AUD mortgage) it's about $75k AUD pa.
The 203k is made up of 173k salary, plus an ATC 'allowence' of 30k pa. So your gratuity etc is only calculated on the 173k. Also, the 'allowence' could be changed at any time, either up or down.
On top of this you receive:
8 weeks annual leave (though no leave loading). You must aquit the 8 weeks each calendar year, which is a blessing to most people (who used to work in places where you couldn't get your annual leave).
Semi-furnished accomodation, or the option to take an allowence (currently 60k pa for married with children- not enough to even think about moving out {rent is hideously expensive here}). The accomodation is in an apartment, of the company's choosing, and can be a source of grief. The company pays for water and electricity.
An allowence amount equivalent to the airfare home (unless the airlines increase it during the year, in which case you get not quite the airfare home). You can use the money any way you choose.
Medical coverage, of sorts. There are quite a few exclusions, and each visit to a doctor attracts a co-payment of 50dhs. Each time the medical cover is renewed, it gets a little skinnier, and less attractive.
The contract allows for 48hrs per week, but in reality you will work less. The typical pattern is MMAANNSOOO. M= 7.30-14.30, A= 2.30-22.30, N= 22.30-07.30, S= sleep. Currently, they 'crib' 2 days per month from you by giving you a MMAANNSOMMAANNSOOO pattern somewhere in the month. You do not get these days back. Also, stand-by blocks are rostered within the patterns, either replacing the Ms or As with a 48-continuous-hr standby, during which you could be called to replace, or add staff to, any shift. Opinions differ about whether stand-by duties are 'good', or not. Some see them as days off, others see them as an unpredictable pain.
The company provides you with transport to and from work.
You get a uniform.
UAE law stipulates that you receive gratuity when you resign, 3 weeks pay per year of service.
These are the basic facts of the terms and conditions. There are a lot of opinions about the place and the company, which I'm sure others will be only too happy to provide.
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Australia
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
What are the conditions like in Abu Dhabi?
Good for families?
Much for the wife to do?
Childcare?
Sports?
Contemplating a move from Oz, living is great but Howard is killing off my pay.
Good for families?
Much for the wife to do?
Childcare?
Sports?
Contemplating a move from Oz, living is great but Howard is killing off my pay.
Join Date: Aug 2000
Location: Middle East
Posts: 1,183
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Howard has also killed our exchange rate here by securing a strong economy! Almost half the rate compared to about 5 years ago, the weak $US our worst enemy though as we are geared to it.
Join Date: May 2003
Location: Golden Road to Samarkand
Posts: 443
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
For the boys over there... the papers are saying that if the oil price rises towards $80/barrel then it'll put downward pressure on the Australian Dollar... ...if it stays around $55/barrel then it'll have no impact on the dollar.
The reason why the Australian Dollar strengthened against the US Dollar the last few days is because the US Dollar fell sharply against the Euro... that'll be another one to watch for.... a continuing rise of the Euro against the US Dollar...
...if it stays around $55/barrel then it'll have no impact on the dollar. The reason why the Australian Dollar strengthened against the US Dollar the last few days is because the US Dollar fell sharply against the Euro... that'll be another one to watch for.... a continuing rise of the Euro against the US Dollar...
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Location, Location, Location
Age: 73
Posts: 131
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Quokka, Ramirez
I think you can pretty much disregard the exchange rate. Even with the new "allowance" you don'y really earn enough here to be sending much back.
You earn Dirhams and you spend Dirhams, there really won't be much left to convert back to AUD. The major hiccup is when you go on vacation and have to convert your Dirhams into Euros or AUD or any other currency that has appreciated against the US$.
If you are married with a kid or 2 much of your money will be spent educating/entertaining them. If you are single an equal amount will be spent entertaining yourself.
If you are considering coming here don't do it for the money, do it for the experience, the adventure and the lifestyle - 2 months leave a year ain't bad either - and, despite SERCO's many shortcomings I have worked for worse organisations.
p.s. If you are from ML or SY and enjoy the weather there you will hate it here. If you are from sunny Queensland it ain't that bad.
You earn Dirhams and you spend Dirhams, there really won't be much left to convert back to AUD. The major hiccup is when you go on vacation and have to convert your Dirhams into Euros or AUD or any other currency that has appreciated against the US$.
If you are married with a kid or 2 much of your money will be spent educating/entertaining them. If you are single an equal amount will be spent entertaining yourself.
If you are considering coming here don't do it for the money, do it for the experience, the adventure and the lifestyle - 2 months leave a year ain't bad either - and, despite SERCO's many shortcomings I have worked for worse organisations.
p.s. If you are from ML or SY and enjoy the weather there you will hate it here. If you are from sunny Queensland it ain't that bad.
