Six Compelling Reasons to Undertake an Expat Assignment in the GCC
Dubai, a prominent city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has undergone significant modernization since the 1990s, becoming a key destination for multinational companies. As part of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the UAE, along with Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, forms a regional intergovernmental union.
Drawing from personal experience working in Dubai and exploring other GCC countries, several common themes emerge. The GCC leads in job creation due to growing economies, fostering job opportunities across sectors like infrastructure, education, healthcare, and housing.
Decision-making processes are streamlined in regional companies, leading to faster business cycles and career development. The region offers a unique chance for personal and professional growth, providing exposure to prestigious projects and a diverse multicultural workforce.
While the weather can be hot, especially in summer, the GCC remains a region rich in resources, culture, and opportunities, making it an attractive prospect for individuals with the right experience and skills. However, the push for job nationalization and budget constraints due to low oil prices may impact expat hiring.