The Middle East is currently a very attractive place for expats who are considering moving from their home countries, with a booming economy and many exciting plans, plus good weather all year round and tax-free salaries, it is no surprise that the region is a sought-after place to live. Whilst the prospect of relocating might be extremely inviting, there are some things you should consider, no matter the location.
Do you want to move?
It may sound silly, but you should carefully consider your motivations for relocating. For example, there may be internal pressure from your organisation to move internally where there is a struggle to find talent. If this is the case, and the move is not for personal reasons as well as career prospects, there’s more of a chance that you’ll be dissatisfied in the longer term.
What will the work/life balance be?
When you are deciding which countries are appealing, you should take into account things like your daily commute, your working hours and what the area offers in terms of social and leisure activities. It is always useful to have an idea of the city, where the residential vs the metropolitan areas are, and what this would mean in your own reality daily.
What is the cost of living going to be?
As well as prices of everyday items, don’t forget the relocation itself could be costly. So, even if you’re getting a rise in salary, you should look at all your initial expenses. You should make sure you research the cost of living in your new location including rent and the cost of education if you have children. Often, if you are moving internally, there will be a relocation policy, however it can add up on additional extras. If you are moving countries, it is wise that you research your tax obligations in the new location and also the implications on tax in leaving your current place of residence.
Do you have children? What are the schools like?
If you have children, as well as looking into the schools in the area you would like to live, it’s also worth finding out what else there is for them to do, such as social and sports activities.
What does the future of the company look like?
If you’re relocating for a job with a new organisation, or even a different branch of your current company, it’s important you know a bit about their financial position, strengths, and weaknesses, before committing to a move. You can speak to people who have made a similar move themselves or who are currently working within the business – LinkedIn is a great place to start.
Is the culture of the new organisation and city a good match for you and your family?
It’s not only job satisfaction that will affect your happiness if you relocate, but you should also think about how you and your family will fit into the culture and day to day life of your new home. Just because you like going on holiday to somewhere doesn’t mean you’ll enjoy living and working there. You should always ensure that you spend a good amount of time in the location before you make a move, familiarise yourself with the local customs and culture, and really assess if it is worth the risk!
If you’re relocating abroad, do you have the right paperwork?
Make sure you’re eligible for a work visa if your new country requires one. Bear in mind that you might not be able to attain a long-term work visa, which may affect your housing situation, ability to secure a bank loan, and other aspects.
With the world being more agile than ever, the prospect of relocation seems more accessible than it has in the past. You should make the most of this, but always ensure you do your homework first!
