If you have only recently graduated from university, a job in the Middle East might be a viable option for you, particularly if your degree was in one of the following disciplines: engineering (chemical, construction, electronic, civil and industrial), business administration, economics, the sciences or architecture. For example, chemical engineering graduates, particularly those from a top university with a good class of degree, are well-placed to find jobs in oil-rich Qatar – there are always jobs (mostly contract) at all levels in Qatar in the oil and gas sector.
University graduates with a background in trade and tourism, hospitality and catering, PR, law, IT and telecommunications are also likely to find plenty of tempting, suitable and lucrative positions with excellent prospects in the UAE. They may also find many opportunities for jobs in Saudi Arabia.
Dubai in particular has become increasingly attractive to new graduates looking to embark on their brand new career, due to the diverse opportunities offered by its wealthy and expanding business centre. However, in recent years the UAE government has forged an initiative (‘Emiratisation’, or the replacement of expatriates with national workers) to address the problem of unemployment among native Emirates. (91.5% of workers across the UAE are expatriates.) This process of Emiratisation is becoming especially apparent in certain sectors including banking, government organisations and public relations, where local businesses are more inclined to recruit nationals over similarly-qualified and skilled foreign applicants.
Since the UAE government has been implementing a policy of economic diversification to reduce the region’s reliance on oil, the tourist industry and business sector have had a new lease on life, which has in turn sparked a construction boom.
