(Image: Live and Let's Fly)
Saudi Arabia is quietly becoming one of the largest recruiters of South African health workers, and the packages on offer are proving hard to resist.
New data from PNET shows that Saudi Arabia's job advertisements targeting South Africans have almost tripled in a single year, up 174% year-on-year.
The driving force behind this job bonus is Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 ProgramAn ambitious plan to improve the economy of the state which has created an immediate demand for skilled professionals.
Engineering and healthcare are the biggest priorities, with Saudi Arabia trying to add around 175,000 healthcare workers by 2030, including around 64,000 nurses.
“Saudi Arabia is increasingly active in recruiting health care professionals, particularly nurses, along with a continuing demand for engineering talent.” pnet report Said.
“This aligns with the Kingdom’s massive healthcare expansion under Vision 2030, which includes key workforce development targets by 2030.”
South African nurses and engineers with internationally recognized qualifications, English proficiency and experience in industries that translate well on a global scale are particularly in demand.
It is also very difficult to say no to money.
A recently advertised nursing role – which only requires two years' experience – offered a tax-free salary of around R56,000 per month. Additionally, candidates receive free accommodation, flights to and from home, free transportation, medical cover and full relocation assistance. This is a package that most local employers simply cannot match.
according to businesstechAustralia is still the top destination for South Africans working abroad, but Saudi Arabia is fast catching up, now in second place ahead of the Netherlands, Namibia and Botswana.
The bigger picture here is worth paying attention to. The demand for South African skills is increasing rapidly globally, which is great for workers but a real challenge for local businesses trying to retain their best people.
“Across all markets, competitive pay packages and structured relocation benefits enhance the attractiveness of international roles,” the report said. “From PNET’s perspective, this reinforces two realities: South African talent is respected globally – and local employers face increasing competition for scarce skills.”
Saudi Arabia finds itself in a somewhat dangerous neighborhood at the moment, but if the prospect of free housing and a R56,000 tax-free salary is enough to outweigh the threat of ballistic missiles, it may be worth considering.
(Source: businesstech)