What is accommodation like when working in Saudi Arabia?

You will be provided your own room in a fully furnished 2- or 3-bedroom apartment which you share with other employees, with recreational facilities such as a swimming pool, gym, library and playground within the accommodation area.

What are the shift duty hours and contract length?

Two 12-hour shifts (7am to 7pm, 7pm to 7am), on a 1 or 2 year renewable contract with a minimum of 40 days annual leave.

Is transport provided to and from the hospital?

Hospital transport is provided free of charge to and from your accommodation, and also to shopping centres and the city.

How do I get paid and send money home?

You are generally paid monthly by Saudi Riyal cheque or direct bank transfer once your residence permit is issued, with no restriction on transferring money out of Saudi Arabia.

FAQ’s

Frequently Asked Questions | Nursing Jobs in Saudi Arabia | Melorita

Working In Saudi Arabia

Frequently Asked Questions

Real answers to the questions Malaysian nurses ask most before saying yes to a posting: accommodation, pay, shifts, culture, and everyday life on site.

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General Guide, All Countries

Job Benefits Every Candidate Should Know

From your contract to your attire, here’s what’s covered before you even step on the plane.

Medical & Professional Attire

Full medical benefits at your employer hospital, as stated in your appointment letter
Not covered when outside your work location, so consider your own travel insurance
White pant suits provided for nurses (subject to employer); shoes not provided (covered, flat)

Accommodation & Transport

Your own room or shared room in a fully furnished 2- or 3-bedroom shared apartment, subject to the respective hospital’s accommodation terms and conditions
Pots, pans and bed linen already provided
Free hospital transport to accommodation, shopping centres and the city

Contract & Leave

1 or 2 year contract, both renewable, with minimum 35 up to 54 days annual leaves
Two 12-hour shifts: 7am to 7pm, or 7pm to 7am
Three months’ written notice required to end your contract

Before You Fly

What To Pack And What To Leave Behind

A few practical notes that save candidates a headache at the airport.

What To Bring

Light summer clothes, sandals, trainers, a one-piece bathing costume, and sports or leisure wear. Pack a cardigan or light jacket for cool evenings.

Leave At Home

Electrical appliances aren’t advisable, as the local voltage is 110V. Everyday household items like pots, pans and linens are already provided.

Forbidden Items

Drugs, alcohol, pornographic materials, pork products, religious artifacts, and weapons of any kind are not permitted into the Kingdom.

Working In Saudi Arabia

Money Matters & Everyday Life

What to expect once you’re settled in, from payday to your day off.

Pay & Admin Culture & Daily Life

How you get paid

Generally by Saudi Riyal cheque monthly in arrears, changeable into any currency, with no restriction on transferring money abroad. Once your residence permit is issued, salary is debited into your bank account once your account is active.

First month’s expenses

Bring RM2,000 to RM3,000 in cash to cover your first month, even though some employers provide a salary advance on arrival.

Sending money home

Telegraphic transfer from a Saudi bank takes 2 to 3 working days (Saturday to Wednesday). Western Union, MoneyGram and TransferWise are also available, each with a service fee.

Cost of living

Roughly SR 1,000 to 2,000 per month excluding housing and transport. A simple meal costs about SR 20 to 30, at an exchange rate of approximately RM1.16 = SR1.

Dress & language

Modest clothing is encouraged outside the compound. Working language is English; interpreters and free Arabic classes are available for newcomers.

Family & travel

Most contracts are individual, but family may visit once your residence permit is issued. Travel within the Kingdom needs a travel letter from your Head of Department.

Food & safety

Subsidised hospital restaurants cater to all tastes, and local kebab houses are excellent. It’s safe to go out, though usually done in groups.

Free time

Recreational facilities within the accommodation area include a swimming pool, sauna, tennis/badminton/squash courts, a mini gymnasium, video library and handicraft space.

Still Have Questions?

More Questions, Answered

The specifics candidates ask us most often about contracts, applications and life on site.

Contract & Applications

What should I do if I fall sick during my contract?

Report to the Staff Employee Health Clinic for medical attention.

What if I decide to end my contract early?

You are required to give three (3) months’ written notice to the employer.

How do I apply for another job within the Kingdom?

Check with Melorita three months before your contract ends, and we’ll advise and assist at no fee. It can take as little as a month with complete documents: updated work experience, 2 references, 4 passport photos, a photocopy of your passport, and a Letter of No Objection if available.

How long does the whole process take?

Anywhere between 3 to 6 months provided your documents are complete. Melorita has a process in place to make sure you’re ready and prepared for the posting. If you haven’t heard from us after 30 days, feel free to call or chat with our office for an update.

Communication & Practical Matters

What if I have a problem with my roommate?

Discuss it with the Housing Manager, whose office is located in the Housing area.

How do I send mail home, and is there internet?

Postal service to Malaysia takes a minimum of 2 weeks, so bring Malaysian stamps or send letters via friends travelling home. Internet is available in most cities, both within the hospital and outside.

What’s the dialing code for calling Saudi Arabia?

From Malaysia: 00 + 966 + City Code + Telephone Number. City codes: 1 (Riyadh), 2 (Jeddah), 3 (Eastern Province), 4 (Tabuk), 7 (Southern Region).

Who do I contact in an emergency?

Malaysia: Onsite Help (+6012 6586614). In Saudi Arabia: call the main hospital line and ask for the Nursing Unit or the Nursing Supervisor on Duty.

Faith & Travel

Can I travel to Makkah or Madinah for Umrah/Haj?

Yes, provided your leave is approved by your Head of Department. Special arrangements and privileges are given to Muslims, and you may join family members with proof of relationship.

Are there places of worship for non-Muslims?

No, you practice your faith within the privacy of your own room. Congregational prayers and gatherings by non-Muslims are prohibited.

Will I need to cover my head in public?

Under Vision 2030, dress code rules have relaxed. Women are no longer required to wear a headscarf, though modest clothing covering shoulders, arms and legs is highly recommended.