If things aren’t going as well as you hoped career-wise in your home country, it may be high time to consider exploring other countries. Not only do you expand your reach and gain more opportunities, but you also open yourself up to more diverse prospects.
But before you partake in an international relocation to expand your career (or even to switch directions), you need to do some research first about your best options.
To help you get started, here are the four best countries in the Middle East and the reasons why they are feasible career relocation options:
1. United Arab Emirates
Composed of seven emirates, the United Arab Emirates is home to two of the Middle East’s most promising cities in terms of career progress: Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Besides being the country’s federal capital, Abu Dhabi is also the biggest and wealthiest emirate in the UAE. There, you’ll find most of the energy and infrastructure-related jobs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Besides that, it’s the heart of the Emirati culture and the sporting capital. It is home to world-famous tourist attractions, like the Louvre Museum located in Saadiyat Island and the F1 track on Yas Island. It is also well-known as the source of 10% of the country’s international oil reserves.
Meanwhile, Dubai a.k.a. the most populous city in the UAE promises bountiful opportunities for those with a knack for business and entrepreneurship.
Although relatively less endowed with natural resources than other emirates, Dubai has established a robust, healthy business culture. Its reputation as both a tourist and commercial hub has also earned it a well-deserved applause from the international community.
Considered the most Westernised of all Middle Eastern hubs, Dubai is home to more than 3.79 million residents (as of 2024), with over 90% being expatriates from different parts of the world. The city has also ranked 24th in terms of the Quality of Urban Living Index, which is higher than the global average. Many respondents also deem it to be one of the safest cities globally, next to Tokyo and Singapore. If you are considering moving to UAE, Writer Relocations can help!
2. Qatar
With a gross national income per capita of USD 63,428.36 in 2022, Qatar continues to be a promising relocation destination for foreigners seeking better career opportunities in a thriving economy.
The nation is going through massive infrastructural development with a lifestyle that is almost as liberal as its neighbor, the UAE. The increasing prices of oil and gas also make it one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
Doha, Qatar’s capital city, continues to be a favorable destination for expatriates, consistently ranking well in global expat city rankings. Nearly all expats (92%) here also see Doha as the easiest place to settle in, even without learning to speak the local language. Most respondents also report that it’s easy to find a house in the city, with 73% positive ratings, though only a quarter of the respondents deem properties there affordable. If you are considering moving to Qatar, Writer Relocations can help!
3. Bahrain
Moving to Bahrain is also worth considering, especially if you’re from the Western hemisphere. While not as popular as the UAE, Bahrain has been attracting expat workers since the 1980s and 1990s. Here, you can expect a warm and welcoming expat community that people typically crave when starting a life in a new country.
Salary-wise, the country remains an attractive destination for expatriates, with competitive salary offerings and a favorable work-life balance. Bahrain is also well established as a finance hub, particularly Islamic finance.
With its 33 islands, Bahrain is the largest archipelago in the Middle East. Its geography has long blessed the country with a profitable oil- and gas-based economy, although it continues to diversify its industries. Bahrain’s labor law sets a maximum workweek of 48 hours, typically over six days, with shorter hours during Ramadan.
4. Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has one of the largest populations in the Middle East. It is considered a key growth market, paving the way for a significant expatriate workforce to seek a better life in the country.
From stellar living facilities to modern educational institutions, Saudi Arabia is a prime destination for individuals not only seeking progress in their careers but also improvement in their way of life.
Most job opportunities here are linked to the nation’s oil and gas industry, though Saudi Arabia is actively diversifying its economy, creating opportunities in tourism, entertainment, and technology to reduce its reliance on oil.
Take note, however, that you must first find a job before moving to Saudi Arabia, but there are other visa options available, such as investor visas or family sponsorships, depending on the purpose of relocation.
5. Kuwait
Kuwait is known for its thriving oil industry, but it is also developing in sectors like finance, healthcare, and construction. With a high-income economy and a tax-free salary structure, Kuwait offers a comfortable lifestyle for expatriates.
The country boasts a relatively liberal social atmosphere compared to other Gulf countries, making it an attractive option for professionals from around the world. Its strategic location and growing international trade also make it a potential hub for career development in logistics and infrastructure.
6. Turkey
Turkey, straddling both Europe and Asia, offers a dynamic and diverse market for expatriates. Key industries such as manufacturing, construction, tourism, and information technology are rapidly expanding, especially in cities like Istanbul and Ankara.
Turkey’s strategic geopolitical position and its push for modernization have opened up many opportunities for skilled professionals. With a rich cultural heritage and relatively affordable cost of living, Turkey has become a popular choice for those seeking new career opportunities in an international setting.
7. Israel
Israel is a global leader in technology and innovation, especially in sectors like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and biotech. The country’s strong startup ecosystem often referred to as the “Startup Nation” makes it a haven for entrepreneurs and tech-savvy professionals.
Cities like Tel Aviv are known for their vibrant tech scene, while other sectors like agriculture, medicine, and defense also provide lucrative opportunities. With a high standard of living and an innovative work environment, Israel is ideal for expatriates looking to work in cutting-edge industries.
8. Jordan
Jordan, while smaller in size, plays a vital role in the region with its stable political environment and growing sectors such as tourism, IT, and healthcare. Amman, the capital city, has become a hub for startups, particularly in the technology and innovation fields.
Jordan’s welcoming attitude toward expatriates, coupled with its efforts to improve infrastructure and education, makes it an attractive destination for professionals looking for career growth in a stable and culturally rich environment.
Move with Ease
Relocating to develop your career is a significant undertaking you need to prepare for thoroughly. Besides finding out your best options, you also need to understand how you can settle in your intended new place.
Writer Relocations can help you move with ease.
Send us a message for more information.