Finding jobs in Qatar: A guide for Expats

Finding jobs In Qatar

Many expats see finding a job in Qatar as a golden opportunity. Do it right and you could be in for an exciting international experience and a great salary with no tax. The helpful guide explains everything you need to know.

If you are thinking about finding work in Qatar, there are a few things you should know. This guide explains how to navigate the job hunt in Qatar and what you can expect from the process.

How to find jobs in Qatar 

Finding a job in Qatar is much the same as it is in other countries. Online resources will be key to your job search, so make sure to take advantage of these.

Job Search in Qatar

Besides search engines and newspapers, you might also search for jobs on the websites of companies you are interested in working for (i.e. specific hotels or oil companies). Large local companies in Qatar that expats may try contacting include Qatar Airways and the Hamad Medical Corporation.

Employment Search Engines for Doha

Search engines allow you to scan a large variety of jobs, and narrow down your search based on particular certain criteria. It is also a good idea to post your CV online if the search engines permits, so hiring managers can find you. Search engines may also allow you to sign-up for e-mail alerts of when new jobs become available.

To search for jobs in Doha, you may use search engines for Qatar or search engines for the wider Gulf Region.

Bayt

Website: http://www.bayt.com

Large search engine for jobs in the Middle East.

Online Qatar

Website: http://www.onlineqatar.com/jobs/employmentnews.asp

Gulf Talent

Website: http://www.gulftalent.com/home/index.php

Search engine for jobs in the Gulf region.

Monster

Website: http://jobsearch.monstergulf.com/search.html

Search engine for jobs in the Gulf region.

Naukri Gulf

Website: http://www.naukrigulf.com

Search engine for jobs in the Gulf region.

Also check for jobs and post your CV on QatarDay Qatar job listings.

Networking in Qatar

Sometimes getting a job is about knowing the right people, and this is true in Doha. Talk to friends, family, and business contacts to see if they have connections in the area you would like to work. Expat events can also be a great way to find out how other expats found work and see if their company has any openings. Use social media such as Facebook, Twitter, or Linkedln or expat forums.

If you are going to Doha with a spouse who already has employment, sometimes your spouse's employer can be an excellent networking contact, since they already have a large network of local contacts.

Newspaper Job Sections

Several papers have a helpful classified's section. There are job offers for executives and professionals, as well as sections dedicated to specific professions, like teaching, computers, and media.

Surprisingly, newspapers can be a good source if you are looking for work in Qatar. For instance, check out the classifieds in the Gulf Times and Qatar Tribune.

These include:

Gulf Times

Website: http://www.gulf-times.com/

Major newspaper in Qatar. Job postings can be found in the hard copy of the newspaper.

The Peninsula Qatar

Website: https://jobs.thepeninsulaqatar.com/
 

Recruitment Agencies for Qatar

If you already have a few years’ work experience under your belt, finding a job in Qatar may be easier if you go through a recruitment agency. There are many in the country, ranging from small local companies to huge international agencies. From overseas, you will do the best working with companies like Adecco, Robert Half, Michael Page, or Hays. Locally, you could try QHR, Al Noof, Bayt, Work Circle, and Gulfaar.

Most agencies in Doha specialize in a particular field, such as computers, engineering, nursing, accounting, catering, or construction. There are also "Head hunting" agencies that are hired by large companies to recruit executives, managers or professionals.

Be careful when effecting payment to any agencies; generally the employer pays a commission to the agency, not the job seeker.

Recruitment agencies servicing Doha include:

REED: http://www.reed.co.uk/jobs/qatar

Doha HR: http://dohahr.com

Workabroad.ph: http://dohaenergy.workabroad.ph/profile/

BAC Middle East Executive Recruitment: http://www.bacme.com/recruitment-agencies-qatar.cms.asp

Ally International: http://allys.biz

Clarendon Parker Qatar: http://www.cparkerworldwide.com/

NES Global Talent: http://www.nesglobaltalent.com

Brunel: http://www.brunel.energy/en/find-a-job

Global Women Qatar: http://www.globalwomenqatar.com

Prepare for an Interview in Qatar

Interviews are a chance for a company to get to know you before hiring. You should also become familiar with the company. Research the company before the interview to discover their missions and direction, and how you fit into their corporate culture. It is not uncommon for there to be a series of interviews.

Tips for interviews in Qatar:

- Dress neatly and conservatively. Some HR contracts dictate what is acceptable wear. Generally, this consists of dresses/ trousers/skirts below the knee, blouses with a modest neck line, and no less than half sleeves.

- Arrive on time, or early.

- Bring your CV, business card, and copies of the certificates.

- Ask questions. Demonstrate your knowledge and interest, but be respectful.

- Thank the interviewer for their time.

Negotiating a Work Contract in Doha

- Once you find a job, during negotiation you should discuss the following with your prospective employer:

- When you will receive your first paycheck. Sometimes this can take 2 to 3 months.

- Which days and shifts are to be worked. Many people in Qatar work a six-day week.

- Accommodation: If accommodation will be included or if you will be offered an accommodation allowance.

- Bills: If these will be included in your contract.

- Flights: If your employer will provide yearly flights home for you and your family.

- Family: If you are able to bring your family to Qatar. If so, accommodation and education for family are usually provided. You will require employer sponsorship to bring your family to the country.

- Bonuses: If bonuses are provided and when.

- Health insurance: If your employer will provide health insurance.

Work Visas & Permits for Qatar

Expats who want to work in Qatar require a work permit. To obtain a work permit, an employer in Qatar must sponsor you. You must obtain a work permit before applying for a Qatar Residence Permit, which makes it necessary to find a job before moving to Qatar. Alternatively, you can come to Qatar for a temporary period to search for a job on an Entry Visa.

To apply for a work permit you must:

- Have your educational and personal documents verified. I.e. diplomas, degrees, transcripts, marriage certificates, etc. may have to be attested by the Foreign Office in the country of issue (your home country, for example) and the Qatar embassy.

- Pass a medical test

- Have your fingerprints taken

Your sponsoring employer can guide you through the work permit process.