Considering a Job in Saudi Arabia? Key Questions About Contracts, Salary, and Living Conditions

Dear Seniors,

Greetings of the day. I am writing to seek your valuable suggestions and guidance on the following:

My brother received an interview call letter from a Cement Company in KSJ, Saudi Arabia - Riyadh. He works as a personal assistant/executive assistant in the Admin Department and has over 22 years of experience working with various top managements, gaining rich and extensive experience.

Questions Regarding Employment in KSA

1. What is the initial period of the contract to be signed or entered into an agreement?

2. What is the salary range for a similar position in KSA, considering 22+ years of experience?

3. Is the salary tax-free, or is there any tax structure in the KSA area?

4. What documents/details should be sought/enquired from the prospective employer regarding job security and facilities like PF/leaves/OSF?

5. Please elaborate on whether the standard practice includes the employer providing free accommodation and transport from residence to the workplace and back.

6. What about personal insurance?

7. How much can one save there compared to the cost of living and other expenses if a single working person can live in KSA?

8. What about emergency leave, such as medical emergencies?

9. Do they provide one month of paid leave with a return ticket as annual leave?

10. What are the usual working hours followed there, and do they have national/festival holidays like India?

11. In case an employee does not wish to continue working with the company, is there any clause or rule regarding giving notice or paying money in lieu of notice? If the employer wants to terminate employment, what is the standard notice period?

Kindly advise on any other things I may have missed that are crucial for making a decision.

Regards,
Rajendra

Expat Employment in Saudi Arabia: Key Considerations

Expats are covered under their labor rule. Only a 2-year visa is granted, and renewal is at the discretion of the employer. The salary may be around INR 1.5 L to 2.00 L. It is tax-free with no personal taxation in GCC countries. PF is not applicable, and gratuity is as per their labor laws. It is advisable to Google their labor laws for more information. Transportation and accommodation are as per the company policies. Personal insurance on the worksite may be provided.

Normally, expats can save up to 70% of their earnings. There are no emergency leaves, and medical leaves are granted as per their labor law during the employee's stay in the country. Annual leaves are usually 30 days with return flight tickets included. Working hours are governed by labor laws or as per the employment contract. It can be a little complex, as it varies from company to company.

Regards

Dear Sir,

Thank you for your kind reply and for noting the contents.

Is there any other document that a candidate can request from the employer for the security of his/her employment?

Regards,
Rajendra