Opportunity - Middle East Jobs
In today’s economy, many of us have experienced lay offs prompted by corporate downsizing and cut backs. It’s not always easy to replace that salary, in particular if you’ve grown accustomed to a certain way of life. Some people have turned to jobs overseas as a way to keep that standard of living and support their families. Often these opportunities are fairly lucrative depending on where the position is.
Perhaps the most lucrative positions are located in the Middle East, in particular Iraq jobs and Afghanistan jobs. These countries designated by the US State department as “War Zones” currently have thousands of contractors working at numerous military installations throughout the region. These contractors are needed to support current military operations and thousands of US and coalition troops. Because of the location of these positions and potential danger, the pay scale and entitlements can be quite lucrative.
Al Faw Palace, Camp Victory, Baghdad
Typically contracts for Iraq jobs are for a one year period although often employees volunteer to stay longer. I know of several individuals who have spent over three years working in both countries. Others simply fulfill their initial commitment, (usually one year) and return home. This leaves a big need for a continual influx of new employees.
For the unemployed worker these opportunities can be quite enticing. The only thing stopping many of them is the potential danger of living in a War Zone and without a doubt, these countries are dangerous, but let’s put things into perspective.
Much of the higher risk positions pertain to those individuals working beyond the perimeters of the military bases, often referred to as “outside the wire”. Such positions include truck drivers traveling between locations, construction works hired to rebuild the infrastructure, civilian security personnel and others.
Many of the other contractors will rarely go beyond the security of the compound unless as part of a convoy and traveling between locations. For these people the risk is substantially lower. That’s not to say that these bases aren’t occasional targets for insurgents and receive occasional mortar attacks and gunfire. It’s just not as dangerous as working elsewhere in the country.
Camp Victory, Baghdad
If you feel that you may be too young or to old to embark on such an opportunity, fear not. I’ve seen all ages from young adults looking for some quick cash to senior citizens, perhaps looking for that last infusion of retirement cash. Not all these positions, however, are located in a war zone and you may find a job in Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain or other Mideast locations. I have a friend who works in Kuwait and lives in the capital, Kuwait City. He has a beautiful apartment, maid service and a leased car provided by the company. Likewise, I have friends who work in Bahrain. They live in or near the capital city, Manama, and receive the same amenities. These locations may not be as lucrative but they sure live good and make a nice income to boot!
Okay, so you’ve decided that this is what you want to do. Find a job in the Mideast. Not sure exactly where yet but you’re considering all options. Here are a few points that you may want to consider.
1. Do I want to bring my family?
There are locations such as Bahrain where you can bring your spouse and children. You’ll want to confirm that the location has a Department of Defense (DoD) school system or other types of schools. You’ll also want to ensure that the contract will support this; some do, some don’t. If not, ensure that you’re compensated adequately to cover these costs yourself.
2. Am I looking for top dollar regardless of the living conditions?
Well, certainly living in the more austere environments will allow you to make the most money. Obviously you won’t be traveling with your family unless you and your spouse are both able to secure positions on the same contract or even same location. Then you’ll really be raking it in! I saw several husband and wife teams in Baghdad who had been on site for several years.
3. Am I looking to make above average income but still live decently?
If you’re interested in experiencing the culture of a modern Middle Eastern city and live well with the benefits of the income tax exclusions (US), then you have many choices to choose from. I have a friend that lives in the UAE capital city of Dubai. He works for a large shipping company and has been there for several years now.
The bottom line is people take jobs in the Mideast for various reasons. Some are looking for a quick infusion of cash, others are interested in supplementing their retirement income and others are simply looking for a job. Whatever your reason, this may be an option to maintain and even enhance your income.
