Economic growth in the Middle East has been well documented over the last decade. Recently the global economic downturn has had a severe effect on locations such as Dubai, with the jobs market shrinking extensively. Despite this opportunities do still arise in the region, especially within Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain. Integral offers recruitment services for individuals that are looking for tax, risk or audit jobs and want to take a new challenge in this highly competitive region.
Our client base is focused on the public practice firms, particularly the Big 4 and Top 10, however we are increasing our recruitment services in the region to include Sovereign fund, financial services, as well as the commercial sector.
Our work in the Middle East covers accountancy, advisory and tax jobs in the main business hubs of the region including:
- Dubai
- Abu Dhabi
- Saudi Arabia
- Kuwait |
- Oman
- Bahrain
- Qatar
|
Whilst certain parts of the region have grown substantially over the past decade, fantastic job opportunities also exist outside of the traditional business jurisdictions and these provide excellent platforms from which to accelerate your career.
Examples of recent assignments
- Audit Partner, Big 4 firm, Bahrain
- Indirect Tax Senior Manager, Big 4 firm, Muscat
- FS Audit Director, Big 4 firm, Dubai
- Internal Audit Director, Investment bank, Dubai
- Corporate Finance Partner, Big 4 firm, Abu Dhabi
- Transaction Services Senior Manager, Big 4 firm, Kuwait
- M&A Tax Manager, Big 4 firm, Bahrain
- Real Estate Lawyer, Law firm, Qatar
Remuneration and Benefits
Remuneration for accountancy and tax jobs in the region varies, depending on the location and job seniority, but generally a net salary will be matched on a tax-free basis. With the cost of living being lower than in the UK or US, a move on a similar salary to your current package should improve your standard of living. The relative difference in cost is partly explained by the weakness of the US dollar, to which many Middle Eastern currencies are pegged. The main remuneration issue at present in the UAE is the increase in domestic rental, however most firms are keeping a close eye on this.
Lifestyle
Across the region there are large expat communities and plenty of recreational activities to cater for most tastes including golfing, sailing, rugby and health and fitness facilities. There are also opportunities to partake in more local activities, such as ‘Wadi Bashing’ (four-wheeled driving) or shopping in the world famous souks.
English is the spoken business language and only occasionally will firms ask for an Arabic speaker to deal with particular clients. Schooling is typically not a problem with many top-quality international schools located across the region.
For more information on accountancy and tax jobs in the Middle East, please contact us via email at international@integralsearch.co.uk or call one of our key contacts.
