Monday, June 20, 2011

Saudi Arabia: What is the Fate of Non-Arab Doctors?



Many doctors who migrate to Saudi Arabia have little or no knowledge of what is waiting for them. This is especially true for doctors who come via family visa. Doctors who come via work visa are usually informed of the salary, the benefits and sometimes of the nature of the job. Those who pass through recruitment agencies know that they have to pay them (these agencies) a specific percentage of their salaries over a given period.

If you are a non-Arab doctor who is coming under the sponsorship of a relative, you should be aware of the obstacles waiting for you. This is especially hard for doctors who have not yet done their postgraduate studies, i.e., MBBS or MBChB holders. For specialists and consultants, the way could be smoother, as they are highly needed in most hospitals and clinics. If you are a specialist or consultant, you could be fortunate to find a hospital or clinic that is either willing to get you a visa, or pay for the transfer process (which is not easy as I heard, and it could take up to 6 months for this to be done).

So, MBBS/ MBChB holders, what lies ahead? If you have less than 2 years experience as a practitioner, you will be required to do an internship of at least 1 year at any government hospital. At the end of your internship you will get an internship certificate from each department that accepts to take you as a training resident. Bear in mind that some departments would reject your application for internship for one reason or the other. Most often, the reason is that they have reached the maximum of interns required for their department, and they would ask you to reapply later. It is necessary that you pass through the internal medicine, paediatrics, surgery, gynaecology and obstetrics, and Emergency Departments. If possible, you could also do an internship at a Family Medicine Department. After this, you can apply to sit for the Saudi License Examination (SLE). You can get the application form as well as the list of requirements from the office of the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties located at Al Ruwais District.

Learn more about the SLE and the books that can help you prepare for the exam by clicking here.


If your wish is to work as a general practitioner, passing the SLE, even with the highest score, is no guarantee that you will get a job in any hospital or clinic. Your application might be rejected because most of the clinics and hospitals usually want Egyptian, Indian, or Pakistani doctors. This is not because they are racist. No. They select physicians based on the nature of patients they get at their institutions. For example, many Indian patients want to be seen only by an Indian doctor or more specifically by an Indian doctor from Kerala. Hospitals and clinics might also turn you down because you do not speak Arabic, as more than 80% of the patients who show up at their facilities do not hear or speak English. Hiring a translator or finding a nurse to translate is not something that most of them are willing to do. And why would they do this, anyway?

If you are planning to continue postgraduate studies, good luck! The path is rough, but it is not impossible to make it. You should be very determined to continue till the end. To start with, certain specialties are reserved for Saudis only. If you wish to join the Saudi Board, you can choose internal medicine, paediatrics, surgery or gynaecology and obstetrics. If one of these is your first choice, then, masha'Allah, you are in for a good start. 



I know a few doctors and have heard of many others who, out of frustration, ended up teaching or doing non-clinical medical jobs. These are good positions with rewarding salaries in the range of 6000-7500 SAR (1600-2000 USD), but it can be pretty frustrating for doctors who have always dreamt of staying in clinical practice. Very good opportunities can be found at Bupa Arabia, AXA, the Islamic Development Bank, and many other private companies.

For doctors who are determined to continue their postgraduate studies and who do not wish to go through these difficult stages, my best advice is for you to stay in your home countries.


NB: This does not apply to doctors trained in the West.

173 comments:

  1. I am Indian muslim and i got selected to work here as a assistant professor in a medical college- university saudi through ministry of higher education totally on merit.
    But here one saudi lady with no proper qualification and bad motives is stopping me to work and also framing wrong allegations against me to bring her friend in my place and she succeed it.I brought it to the notice of the dean but he favored her.Please let me know what i should do .My contract was renewed last august august till this August.My iqama is upto march 2016.Please advice

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. there is no option for you but to go back to your native country

      Delete
    2. I am an mbbs graduate with 4yrs of work expierence in heamatology. I am interested in teaching in med school. Kindly guide from where i should start to apply.
      Waiting anxiously for reply

      Delete
    3. PLEASE DO NOT GO TO COURT. IT MAY BE A VERY LONG PROCESS. RATHER BETTER OPTION IS TO QUIT AND APPLY FOR JOB IN ANOTHER PLACE. DONT LOOK OUT FOR JOBS IN BIG CITIES. ITS DIFFICULT TO GET AS NATIVE POPULATION TEND TO MIGRATE THERE. TRY SMALL CITIES AND TOWNS ESPECIALLY IN NORTH. LOTS OF VACANCIES EXIST AND NO NATIVE POPULATION WANTS TO SEETTLE IN RURAL AREAS.

      Delete
  2. Hello Dr Nayna,

    I'm sorry to hear about this. Unfortunately, I'm not in the best position to advise you. If you have proof, you may choose to seek legal advice.

    All the best!

    ReplyDelete
  3. I am an indian muslim who z graduated from russia..i am living in jeddah under my husbnds family visa.can i do internship in kingdom?

    ReplyDelete
  4. I am an indian muslim who z graduated from russia..i am living in jeddah under my husbnds family visa.can i do internship in kingdom?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi blurose,

      Have you managed to get internship in a saudi hospital? Did you have to attest your Russian MBBS, and did you have to pay fees to the hospital?

      Thanks a lot

      Delete
    2. Hi Isa..unfortunately NO!i had to come back to my home country.I will go back to saudi in May..where r u from?n where have u done ur medicine?i guess need to pay around 1000 sr per month for de houseman job.

      Delete
    3. did you manage to do your internship in saudi arabia? as i am also graduted from the russian university

      Delete
  5. Hi Bluerose,

    Unpaid internship, sure you can. You may want to start by trying to apply at King Abdulaziz University Hospital. They usually accept applicants for unpaid internships. The training department is situated on the sixth floor of the building, not far from Total Quality Management. After your internship, you may consider taking the Saudi License Examination, i.e., if you haven't done so already.

    Best of luck!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Thank u soo much Daprize...so i cant write de exam widout internship rt?

    ReplyDelete
  7. You're welcome, Bluerose. It was a requirement a few years back, so you may want to check with the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties to make sure that their requirements have not changed. Their new office is located on Falesteen Road. You can also contact them via their website http://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/pages/default.aspx.

    ReplyDelete
  8. So kind of u Deprize..May Almighty bless u..is it compulsory to knw arabic to do internship and do we need to pay dem?sorry to trouble i wid so many questions...n thanks again..

    ReplyDelete
  9. As far as I know, Arabic is not compulsory at university hospitals, though it may be a plus. In areas such as the emergency room, where majority of the patients are Arabic-speakers and everyone else is running around to take care of an emergency, you would have a tough time understanding patients' complaints. In the wards and outpatient departments, nurses and students are usually willing to help you understand a patient's complaint.

    ReplyDelete
  10. I am a female, final year student in medical college in pakistan. I will graduate in January,2016. I would like to do internship and later practice medicine in kingdom. It's my passion to work in saudi arabia. I will appreciate if any one could guide me in right direction to fulfill my dreams.may almighty Allah help me and others in helping otherd!

    ReplyDelete
  11. I am north Indian hindu MBBS, DA with 8 yrs experience in Anaesthesia.I would like to relocate to saudia for 2 years only. Please suggest is it is safe and secure place or precautions & things i should consider during my stay.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Dr. Sudhanshu,

      I apologise for my extremely late response. In my opinion, Saudi Arabia is a safe place. If there is anything I would advise you to avoid, it is breaking Saudi laws. You must already be aware that expats are not allowed to publicly practice other religions and the consumption of alcohol is prohibited. In fact the usual things that you would see on almost all blogs that talk about life in KSA.

      All the best with your relocation plans!

      Delete
  12. what is the passing percentage for diploma in anesthesia in saudi licencing exam because for diploma and me has to write same exam so what is the cut of percentage for diploma comes under resident. please reply.

    ReplyDelete
  13. hi my husband has just got a job in saudi...m a MBBS doctor from INDIA having an experience of 1n half year of work in Govt hospital as a Class II medical officer and around 6 months experience in a Private Hospital as a RMO......So my point is can anyone guide me properly about what could be my options in Saudi ...as in for Job or PG studies either...?

    ReplyDelete
  14. Hi unknown,

    in my humble opinion, you would be better off looking for a job, while trying to find out whether you have any chances of pursuing your studies. But consider taking the Saudi license examination, and if possible doing a voluntary job for a short period at any government hospital. You would get to know the system better and understand your options.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Hi, i ve got a job with moh as specialist in ksa. Should i take sle exam ?? My papers are being processed for visa. There was no mention about any exam. But i see lot of sites mentioning it is safer to take SLE before i start off from my country. Pls advise

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello,

      I'm not sure about MOH positions. As far as I know, most private hospitals and clinics typically require that physicians take the SLE. It's always safer to have a license to practice in my opinion, but when you come here, you'll be amazed at the number of doctors who practice medicine without a license.

      Delete
  16. I am a muslim dentist from pakistan having 1.5 year experience after internship. should I apply for general dental surgeon in saudia?

    ReplyDelete
  17. Hi,

    I have completed MBBS and MS(General Surgery) in July 2015 from Zhengzou university, china and I am on my husband's sponsorship living in Riyadh. I had done one year internship in a govt.hospital in Riyadh after my MBBS.

    I want to know, can I write the SLE exam now as I don't have 2 years of internship experience with me? In case if I want to go into the medical education profession, what options/universities do I have in Riyadh, where I can apply and whats the procedure.

    Your guidance would be highly appreciated.
    Regards

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Sajid,
      Can you please tell me how you got your internship in a government hospital? Did you have to get your MBBS attested, and did you have to pay for internship?

      Thanks a lot

      Delete
  18. Dear Sajid,

    Sorry I can't guide you on this one. You might want to check with the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties since I do not know their current requirements.

    Regards,
    D

    ReplyDelete
  19. how to get attachment in a government hospitals in Riyadh,

    ReplyDelete
  20. sir,i have problem with my experience ,my last experience showed year 2013...as mcps trainee.i did for one year only then left...now in Riyadh..do you have any idea how to get free attachment in Riyadh hospitals,,,as Saudi council told me to work forminimum three months ,for data flow...some one told me that national guard hospital provide paid job,for experice..but for me there no vacancy..do you know any other hospital that can provide paid experience tooo...thanks

    ReplyDelete
  21. hello,
    i m a pakistani female doctor (mbbs) working in ksa as a gp for 2 years.Now i want to get into residency program here as my husband is setteld here too, but i dont know whats the procedure .Some says they dont give trainings to non saudis etc. please guide me

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My bad! I missed this comment and the one below! Yes, it is possible to join a program as an expat. However, positions are highly competitive for expats. I don't know where you currently reside, but if there is a university hospital where you live, you might want to start from there. Apply for unpaid training and hang about with other residents and doctors, and you'll easily find out what you need to do. Procedures typically differ by department or area of specialty.

      Delete
  22. Hi Daprize

    I greatly appreciate your post. Is it possible for non-arab doctor (on husband iqama) to find residency spot after mrcog part 1? Please reply
    Thank you

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sorry I'm very late in responding. I don't know whether you finally found help, but you can email me anytime. I'll try to catch up.

      Delete
  23. hi daprize

    iam a doctor who is moving to saudi and i want to be clear as to whether i can talk to my female doctors amd can i watch anything on internet and will i have a liberal to go around and what is the punishment for doctors-both nonsaudis if they are caught having sex

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ever heard about the Shariah law? It would help to read more about Saudi Arabia, its laws and customs.

      Delete
  24. Hi I am an MBBS doctor with two years experience from Kerala,India...can you please tell me the work profile of a general practitioner in Saudi..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Haseena,

      By work profile, do you mean the job description or the requirements to fill GP positions?

      Delete
    2. Asslam u alikum i am final year student i am from pakistan but i am studying in china i want to do paid internship in saudi arabia can any one gaiude me ....

      Delete
    3. can any one help me my internship will start on 1st june 2016 i am looking if any one know please tell me

      Delete
    4. What exactly do you need help with, Zarina? Maybe it would help if you were a little more specific.

      Delete
  25. i am from pakistan .i am studying MBBS IN china .i want to do my 1 year internship in saudi arabia, i want to know what is the hospital requirement and how i can apply .is it paid or un paid

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Zarina,

      I don't know of any paid sponsorship for expats. Do you intern to do your internship in Jeddah?

      Delete
    2. hi daprize first of i would like to thank you for the information you are providing for all of us :).. and my question is the same as zarina's but i've graduated from my medical university do i still need to apply for an internship and is it allowed ... i live in jeddah on family visa where do i go to apply for the internship in king abdul aziz hosp i would be really greatfull if u could give me directions to the place .. thank you so much!!!!

      Delete
    3. Hi,

      You should go to the Training Department and ask for the secretary. The training Department is located on the 6th floor, not far from Total Quality Management. You would be required to do some laboratory exams after filling in a form. The secretary will direct you, no worries.

      Delete
    4. again thankyou so much for the info :)

      Delete
    5. Hi ...
      I actually wanted to know where is this building the address of this place :) thank u

      Delete
    6. King Abdullah Road, beside AlSalam and Andalus Mall, Jeddah. More details in my response to your email.

      Delete
  26. Hi i have heard that with one yr experiencd u can take sle.i want to know that after passing sle one can get gp job with one yr experience?

    ReplyDelete
  27. Hi i have heard that with one yr experiencd u can take sle.i want to know that after passing sle one can get gp job with one yr experience?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. you need to get one year experience in Saudi Govt hospital or 2 yrs continuous experience which i heard.

      Delete
  28. Hi it is possible but very expensive..u have to pay more than a 1000 SAR per month i have heard.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hi I m internal medicine doctor from india. I m hindu by religion. I want to work in saudi. Can I have any problem of religion in saudi?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Shailu,

      So long as you do not openly practice your religion, I don't think it would be a problem.

      Delete
  30. Hi im a gernal dentist 2013 with 2yr experience including housejob .. as im already in khobar and planning to give SCHS exms , can u guide should I apply from pakistan or just register from here ..I have heard there r many formalities and test itself is difficult if attempted from within saudia . Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  31. Kindly give me your email so I can take guide from you as I have been mislead manytimes ...what is sponcership .. im currently on family visa .. so do I needto gt sponcered by sm institution or hospital to aappear in exms ..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi,

      My email address is allwritingsaudi@gmail.com

      Delete
  32. Hellow Daprize ,
    Can I plez get ur email ..whats the best thing I can do .. should I go back pakistan then give SCHS exam as I have been told it would be alot easier .. and its counted equal ...and second whats with language is arabic cmpulsry

    ReplyDelete
  33. I Will really appretiate ur reply , and help , its been almost 2 mnths im here in khobar and mislead ,now fading all hope .. whats the difference in applying for SLE from pak and applying from here .. ur email plez

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. hello.
      I m a doctor working in ksa since 2 years. i gave my sle exam in taif in 2013 via prometric centre. study and practise mcqs n you will clear .no need to go back to pak .

      Delete
  34. How long will it take to get replied please really aprretiate your help

    ReplyDelete
  35. Hi I have done MBBS from india,2 years experience in neuro critical care followed by 8 months in medical icu.- total 2.8 years..where i can expect , they will put me in which deptt? and the salary approximately?

    ReplyDelete
  36. hi..i have done mbbs from india with 2 years experience in neuro critical care unit followed by 8 months in medical icu total 2.8 years..if i try for saudi..which deptt they will put me in..?.or hw mch salary approximately?.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Dheeraj,

      I saw your email and responded a few minutes ago.

      Delete
  37. Hi
    I'm an eye specialist with 9 yrs experience. I want to work in Saudi. Do the SLE required legally for specialist also? Where can I get details about SLE? What is the cost of living and saving potential in Saudi if stay single there? Do the employer or colleagues help during early days settlement like finding accommodation there?

    May the employer deviates from commitment made by recruiting agency during the appointment process?

    What precautions should I take during accepting appointment terms?

    Sorry I bothered you by too many questions but these are vital for me to take final call.
    Thanking you in advance

    ReplyDelete
  38. Hi
    I'm an eye specialist with 9 yrs experience. I want to work in Saudi. Do the SLE required legally for specialist also? Where can I get details about SLE? What is the cost of living and saving potential in Saudi if stay single there? Do the employer or colleagues help during early days settlement like finding accommodation there?

    Do the employer deviates frequently from commitment made by recruiting agency during the appointment process?

    What precautions should I take during accepting appointment terms?

    Sorry I bothered you by too many questions but these are vital for me to take final call.
    Thanking you in advance

    ReplyDelete
  39. Hi Doc,

    I may not be able to answer all of your questions at this time due to the number of emails that I receive every day. Have you tried checking with the SCFHS (http://www.scfhs.org.sa/EN/pages/default.aspx)? I'm not sure what they require for specialists since the requirements often change. As for an employer deviating from their commitments, that is a whole legal issue, and I'm not qualified to advise you on this aspect.
    All the best!

    ReplyDelete
  40. any onne guide me how can apply for there i was done mbbs from china now i want do GP suadi

    ReplyDelete
  41. Hello all..i want to do my internship in jeddah.i have iqama under my husband.is it possible to do internship if i am ready to pay them?plz help me

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Zubair,

      In the past, some facilities used to offer paid internships (cost 3000 SAR/month). I'm not sure whether they're currently still doing it. Please send me an email (allwritingsaudi@gmail.com) as a reminder to check that out.

      Delete
  42. Aint 3000sr/month is too much?i thought its 1000sr/month

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Some centres ask for 1000 SR/month. I have to check the training centre that was previously requesting 3000 SAR whether the fee is still the same or if they still offer training.

      Delete
    2. Ohk Daprize...it wud b a great help for soo many people...May almighty reward u for ur good deed..

      Delete
  43. I have been selected by KSA MOH delegates in India and posted as specialist (orthopaedic surgeon)in KSA. Do I have to clear the prometric exam also? What if I went to KSA and failed to clear?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hum...this is a difficult one. Most of the expat specialists that I'm working with are not sure whether it is even a requirement to clear the exam since some of their colleagues haven't taken it. I would take it if I were you in order to register with the SCFHS. You do not have to worry. You can take it again if you do not make it the first ore second time.

      Delete
  44. assalamualaikum..

    may I know if saudi government accept malaysian doctors? if they do, how to apply? i am malaysian female doctor with 7years experiences only and now is doing master in family medicine specialist (frcgp).. thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Walaykum salam, Dr. Hidayah.

      To be honest, I have never personally met any Malaysian doctor here. But this should not deter you from trying, especially as you are going to complete your residency in family medicine. With a master's degree, you stand a higher and better chance of getting employed compared to general physicians (MBBS of MBChB). You might also want to check at your embassy whether in the past, they've issued work visas for physicians seeking opportunities in KSA.

      I hope this helps.

      Good luck!

      Delete
    2. salam
      i am a pakistani female dentist wanted to work in saudia arabia with only having one year experience .i heard that it is very difficult to get job with just bachlors degree and one year experience how can i get more experience here i mean can i do internship in any hospital in order to get more experience .
      plz help me i feeling so much frustrated because it seems like all my studies got wasted if i didnt get the job

      Delete
    3. Walaikum salam.

      Yes, it is very difficult to get a job with a bachelor's degree, and you biggest shot is to come here under a work visa. I know interviews are usually held in some cities in Pakistan and India, and if you're not lucky to get recruited via these channels, chances are you won't be able to find a job in your specialty if you come here under family visa. Now the decision belongs to you and your husband whether it is worth you staying in Pakistan and completing your master's or coming here and keep trying to get an internship and, hopefully, landing a job.

      Delete
  45. ,
    Am a pakistani dr did my mbbs in 2013 and one year intership in 2014. And 3 months practise at private hospital in pakistan.now came to riyadh on family visa.my husband got job here as he is a doc as well.
    Am so much concerned abt my future.how to get into the saudi residency programz?how to get prepration for exam? Am i eligible to take exam

    ReplyDelete
  46. Aoa
    Plz reply me soon dear.
    Very confused.
    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi!

      You should start by contacting the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties. The requirements change, so you want to make sure you know what their new requirements are.

      Since you live in Riyadh, you should consider visiting their offiece at 6591 Abdullah Alsahmi St, Al Safarat. Phone: +966 9200 19393. You can read about the requirements here http://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/mesps/Pages/default.aspx and visit them if you need more information.

      Delete
  47. salam.. i did mbbs in 2009 n i have done 4 years training in paediatrics in pakistan .. im in riyadh now on husband visa ... i want to do job here ..i have to ask few queations ..
    1 # i want to give sle exam .. but not sure about study material .. which books i have to read ..
    2 # n what is the procedure n requirements for saudi licensing exam in riyadh ksa ..
    3 # can i get a job in any hospital in paediatric as resident without sle ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Salam Dr. Nzsh,

      I would suggest contacting the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties. The requirements change, so you want to make sure you know their new requirements. I'm not sure it's a requirement for you to take the SLE, although it would be smart to take the exam and get registered with the SCFHS.

      Since you live in Riyadh, you should consider visiting their office at 6591 Abdullah Alsahmi St, Al Safarat. Phone: +966 9200 19393. You can read about the requirements here http://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/mesps/Pages/default.aspx and visit them if you need more information.

      Delete
  48. Sir I am from India and this year for saudi faculty interview only non muslims were selected . Any reason sir
    Dr.Nayira

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Dr. Nayna,

      I'm afraid the organisers of that interview are in a better position to answer this question.

      Delete
  49. Hello ppl,

    i have done MBBS from Pakistanin 2014. Then i did one year house job, after that i did 6 months of residency in ER. I wanted to appear in SLE exam but i heard that to appear in SLE u need to have 2 yrs of exp after house job. Therefore, i want to do paid internships in any reputable hospital to cover my required experience.
    Can anyone help me in this regard? looking forward to any sincere advise.

    ReplyDelete
  50. pakisthan degrees and people are not valid.They have all fake qualification

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Do you have proof, Dr. Nayma? I'm asking because I've worked with very knowledgeable Pakistani doctors. I think it's unfair to judge a rule group of people because you've encountered a few fakes. Don't you think so?

      Disclaimer: I'm not Pakistani.

      Delete
  51. Hi,
    I am Dr.Sameer DNB paediatrics, Fellowship Pediatric Nephrology from India. I got selected by HMG group as senior specialist, what salary can I expect?

    ReplyDelete
  52. around 12000 sars/month .I f you have experience of 3 years

    ReplyDelete
  53. can i have your email is please

    ReplyDelete
  54. Hello to everybody here. Its really a nice platform to share information and learn from each other's experience. I am facing a problem and I am unable to get proper guidance. May be anyone of you guide me well.

    I have recently completed my masters in Orthodontics which was a three years program. My qualifications are accepted by SCHS. I want to apply for a Resident Licence as I need to work under supervision of an orthodontist. But at the info desk at SCHS, they said I should submit one year experience certificate. My question is that if I have experience then why would I need resident licence? I need resident licence to gain experience. Can anybody guide me in this regard?

    Thank you so much

    ReplyDelete
  55. Hello,

    I am Indian Muslim and have been offered a job in a private hospital.i am pediatrician with 3years experience.i would like to know more about the prometric exams.is it SLE or schs exam.??

    ReplyDelete
  56. Hi there. I am an Indian doctor holding Russian degree MBBs. Selected by MOH for madinah region. My medical degree needs to be attested from Pakistan. I want to know how safe is to go in Saudi Arabia.
    Please contact email drrobinsongill@gmail.com
    Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Indian dr,russian degree holder bt need attestation from pakisthan? Can u plz explain me the logic in it?

      Delete
  57. Hi I am Indian doctor selected by MOH for Saudi arabia

    ReplyDelete
  58. Hi
    I am Indian doctor holding Russian degree got selected by ministry of health for madinah region. My degree needs to be attested in Islamabad. Before that I want to knkow the present conditions for doctors in madinah region.
    My email is drrobinsongill@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  59. i am a senior doctor from India
    i have been selected as consultant surgeon in saudi arabia in MOH .
    i want to know
    1.if the employer does not stick to the terms of appointment what options I have.do they honour the commitment made in paper with the employee or no.
    2.can i take a Indian idol (MURTHY )for my puja ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello,

      Congratulations on being selected as a consultant surgeon. To answer your questions:
      1. Employers generally respect the terms of contract, but if you do get into a dispute with your employer, you have to present your case to the Ministry of Labour.
      2. I honestly cannot answer this one. Maybe another Indian on here who is familiar with your beliefs can guide you.

      Delete
  60. Salam alaikom dear friends, I'm afghan doctor who is graduated from Russian university this year, I would like to work in Saudi Arabia in Sha Allah, but I don't have work experience yet after 6 years university, would anyone please give me the information if it is possible for me to apply for job? What chances are available for me right now ? Thanks in advance

    ReplyDelete
  61. yes Dr.You may visit the site of Saudi universities and apply
    With my best
    Dr.Nayira

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for reply, can you give me which exactly universities if possible their websites? You mean I can apply for I gets hip or I can apply to work as MD/MBBS Doctor in hospital ? Thanks in advance

      Delete
  62. Residents work round the clock for more than 24 hours at a time for 2 times a week and. Still questioning resident doctors is not fair the work needs to be equally divided into specialists and consultants if anyone has to be examined it has to be the senior staff and not the junior doctors 24 hours working round the clock is not a joke if a person just attends duty for a mere 8 hours that person is exhausted doctors are also humans people need to remember that health ministry needs to focus on this issue maybe thts why every doctor just wants to leave the kingdom as soon as possible because of work pressure and. Oppression from the senior staff. Doctors have to be valued and not looked down on ...every doctor should be proud of being a doctor and not regretting becoming a doctor because of 24 hours duties

    ReplyDelete
  63. Thanks for your reply, would you please give me the names of those universities or if possible their website links? Is it possible to apply for job or for interstitial to universities ?

    ReplyDelete
  64. As an Indian mbbs with 10 uears of experience,how much salary should I expect? Will it include accommodation and other expenses or not?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It depends on your employer. Do you wish to join the gov't or private sector?

      Delete
  65. Any indian doctor with Russian md physician degree working in Saudi with or without family.
    Please give me the contact mail id or contact number.
    Need to clarify some details regarding work related details in Saudi.
    Thanku
    Regards
    Dr.siraj
    Hasimsirajul@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  66. Assalam alaikum brother
    I am in indian by nationality and studied in romania, i have completed my medical education (mbbs) 5 years back i have the romanian degree but i dont have license of any country neither india or romania but i have passed the sle, in ur opinion do u think i will get the saudi license for practising in saudi

    ReplyDelete
  67. indian degrees and work experiences are not much valid unless you have experience in US.You can get 7000sars per month

    ReplyDelete
  68. I am doing MBBS from China. Its my sixth year and doing internship here.After completing this 1yr internship,will go back to my university and will have the graduation exam.
    Can I appear in SLE exam and after passing sle exam continue my residency program here or not??
    Can anyone help me in this regard?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Uzma fareed.. Where r u doing ur internship nw?

      Delete
  69. I am doing internship in Saudi arabia

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thats really great.. Can u tell me in which city u r... N in which hosp u r doing it? Bcoz since looong time am trying to do an internship in saudi... Kindly give me the details plz..

      Delete
    2. @uzma
      Are u doing paid internship?also which hospital in saudi?please do reply..

      Delete
    3. Hi, i am also looking to do my internship in Saudi Arabia. Could you share the application process and your experiences doing internship in Saudi. Is speaking Arabic necessary and a requirement? I look forward to hearing from you.

      Delete
  70. I want to know for internship of one more year after house job, does it still mandatory for doctors like us who jv only one yr house job experience and how would we know that this internshil will be accepted by scfhs?

    ReplyDelete
  71. I want to know for internship of one more year after house job, does it still mandatory for doctors like us who jv only one yr house job experience and how would we know that this internshil will be accepted by scfhs?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi,

      You might want to contact the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties to find out since the requirements typically change. Only a few years back, an internship was mandatory, irrespective of whether you had experience or not. I don't think it is still the case, but would strongly advise that you contact the SCFHS.

      Delete
  72. Assalam Alykum. Writing as a depressed fresh graduate who had to move to Saudia without the chance of completing my housejob (have done 6 months only), your post was a like a breath of fresh air for the suffocated. I want to study more here. i dont care about jobs or salaries yet, i just want to pursue my studies. and after alot of research i discovered that i have limited options, MRCOG being the only one since i havent completed my housejob training. but your article has given me hope. Can you guide me further? i live In dammam and i applied for my internship training in King Fahd Specialist Hospital but havent got a response yet. Do i have hope? is it still possible for me to pursue my dream of specilising in Internal Medicine, if i somwhow complete my 1 year internship in a govt hospital here? Will be awaiting your response sir, as i havent really found much guidance or help elsewhere. jazakAllaah khair katheer.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sorry to hear about your dilemma. Believe me, you're not the only one in this situation--many female physicians who come under family sponsorship typically face difficulties practising medicine.

      I hope you've gotten approval at King Fahd Specialist Hospital (KFSH). What strikes me most is why you wish to go for MRCOG when your dream is to specialise in internal medicine. Have you considered a training position at the Department of Medicine of KFSH, then taking the MRCP Part 1 Exam, i.e., if it is offered in Dammam?

      Delete
  73. I am an anaesthetist from India with 4 years experience post MD. I was selected for Saudi MOH as a specialist last year but could not go due to certain personal reasons.Now I have received an offer from a private group who has hospitals in Saudi, UAE, Qatar and Oman. They have offered me a position in Jeddah since I have cleared the prometric SLE last year. At the same time, they have allowed me to choose the country of my liking. Just that, if not KSA, I would have to do all the documentation for that country and take their exams too while if KSA around 90% of my documentation is already done. Wherever it is, I intend to take my wife and 2 year old daughter with me. And importantly, I want to come back to India after working for 5-6 years. My query is 1) what salary can I expect in KSA? Are salaries standard across the countries I mentioned above or does any one country have more to offer? 2) How about the saving potential in KSA especially with new rules and taxes being proposed? If at all you suggest a place other than Saudi, is the trouble for redoing documentation, exams etc worth it as I plan to stay for only 5-6 years? 3) how is the standard of schools in Jeddah? 4) is this a bad time to come to Saudi what with the Yemen strife, plunging oil prices etc?... May I add that I am a Christian and not into drinking, smoking or partying.Thank you in advance

    ReplyDelete
  74. hello, thanks for all the information. i have question i am about to graduate from a medical university in china. I am a bahraini national i would like to do my internship in saudi, I dont have any family living in saudi as i am girl will i be allowed to live in saudi alone? do they provide hostels or accomodation for female interns?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Super Doc,

      Thanks for visiting my blog.

      To answer your question, I don't see the type of visa that would be issued in your case if you're coming for an internship. Without a family here, you can't even come under family visa. Plus, you're a single female, making things way more complicated. Have you tried to find out in your country whether the Saudi Ministry of Health recruits Bahraini general practitioners? I know they usually recruit from Pakistan and Indian, but I'm not sure about neighbouring Arab countries.

      Delete
  75. Hello,
    Iam a mbbs graduate from india completed internship in march 2014,got married and settled in Riyadh,discontinued for about 2 years.I am currently preparing for the mrcs and i need one year experience to sit for the sle.where can i apply for a job for experience with a minimal salary?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi,

      You should target all academic hospitals within your area of residence. However, I would advise that you consider applying for a volunteer position initially since, to the best of my knowledge, academic hospitals won't hire MBBS doctors.

      Delete
  76. Assalamualaikum.
    I am an Indian medical graduate just done with my college.Also I have done an extra year of internship after college. I was born and brought up in KSA and wish to return back. Will I able to get any job as a fresher or at least an internship?
    Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  77. Hi... I'm a surgeon from India. I've completed by MS in 2015, and working. Presently i have experience of one and a half years. It's it necessary i have 2yrs experience before i take up a job as a specialist in ksa. Fyi: i have experience working as tutor for 2 yrs post mbbs before i took up MS

    ReplyDelete
  78. Hi I am an Indian dr with MRCGP int and I am working in a centre recognized for training but I m working as a GP n not as a trainee so will my work exp count for me to become a registrar if not then where can I get 2 years CCT..?
    Thank you

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. This comment has been removed by the author.

      Delete
  79. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  80. Hello I'm an Indian currently pursuing my 4th year MBBS in China. I want to do my internship in Saudi Arabia. Is it possible to do that? If yes, what are the procedures that I've to follow? Please respond to my query. Thankyou

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Very difficult but not impossible. Do you have any relatives here in KSA? Teaching hospitals usually accept interns, but with the number of doctors interested in internships, it has become extremely difficult to be accepted in any department (especially in medicine).

      Delete
  81. Saudi Arabia is islamic country.Try to get posted in non islamic country

    ReplyDelete
  82. I read your blog I like you information thanks for share but we are offering and provide Best ENT Specialist in Lahore if want Best ENT Specialist in Lahore visit over this website Best ENT Specialist in Lahore.

    ReplyDelete
  83. I am MBBS from India. I have 3 years Hospital experience but experience is more than 5 years old ( I am doing Private Practice in my home clinic) There is gaps in my experience.
    But my Consultancy agency is saying that it is not a problem and that appearing for Saudi Licensing Exam is not needed. Only verbal interview by the Ministry of Health Delegates visiting India is enough,if I clear it. How true is it?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Unless things have changed, passing the SLE is usually not mandatory for physicians who are recruited to work at Saudi Ministry of Health hospitals.

      Delete
    2. Now he is saying that I have to give the Saudi Licensing exam after 3-4 months of working there,but I have to pass it within one year or else they will send me back home. I am ready to give the exam but not sure if I am eligible due to the gap in my experience. My last experience was from 10.1.2012 to 2.9.2013 for 1 year 8 months.

      Delete
  84. INDIA is better country for non muslims.Saudi is an Islamic country.Muslims have better opportunities if they are from Islamic countries.Even Indian muslims find difficulty because India is non-Islamic state
    Thanks
    Dr.Naina

    ReplyDelete
  85. aslamu alekum ,i am an Indian doing mbbs in china (4th year),my mother works in ksa,i like to do paid/unpaid internship in saudi
    can you suggest any hospitals that take foreign interns

    ReplyDelete
  86. difficult ... if you are from US or UK they consider.
    Where is your mother working

    ReplyDelete
  87. Sir,I'm female mbbs doctor from Pakistan. I've done 1year internship in pakistan. Now living here in jeddah on family visa with husband.
    What will you suggest me about doing a job here?

    ReplyDelete
  88. Sir,
    Please reply

    I graduated in 2014 from Pakistan,did internship and then got married. Currently preparing for mrcp part 1 for next year.
    Kindly guide me regarding studies and job.

    ReplyDelete
  89. What about shia Muslim doc from India. Is it possible he will face ddiscrimination if others staff or working colleagues will come to know he is a shia.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi! This is a purely subjective matter. As far as I am concerned, I have never witnessed anyone who faced discrimination because of their religion. I have witnessed racial discrimination, though, and I believe it only depends on the mentality of the people that you work and interact with. Some persons are more tolerant towards persons with a different religious background; some not so much. In your place, I wouldn't worry too much.

      Delete
    2. yes. But most of the people in saudi are eygptians and they are shias.They treat badly sunnis.Most of them are wahibes.They too originated from France and they tooo dislike sunnis

      Delete
  90. Assalam u Alaikum I want to ask u something i have done my mbbs and have xperience of 8months and i have done saudi licencing exam and i waz not working and my xam wil xpire in april 2017 kindly tel me da procedure how i wil get licence and job as general practitioner and how i can save my xam to get expire kindly help me wat should i do i m living in makkah on family visa

    ReplyDelete
  91. Assalam u Alaikum I want to ask u something i have done my mbbs and have xperience of 8months and i have done saudi licencing exam and i waz not working and my xam wil xpire in april 2017 kindly tel me da procedure how i wil get licence and job as general practitioner and how i can save my xam to get expire kindly help me wat should i do i m living in makkah on family visa and i m pakistani by nationality

    ReplyDelete
  92. Is there any difference in working for private clinic vs MOH as an eye specialist with post MS experience of 5 years.. in terms of salary or any other issues???

    ReplyDelete
  93. no not much differences if you have iqama

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Nanyna..Few more things I wanted to know:

      Is salary being paid on time by private clinics just like MOH?
      Do I need to keep any special precautions/note when finalising my job recruitment with a private clinic.

      Thanx and regards

      Delete
  94. Yes salaries are paid but at times delayed .You should take around 10,000SARS with you when you leave India.You got to manage for the first month till you get your salary.
    Which hospital is this ? Where is it ?
    Best Nayina

    ReplyDelete
  95. Greetings, I m going to work as specialist (General surgeon) in MOH KSA, Al Ahsa region, Omran General hospital. My departure is scheduled in first week of feb 2017, can I bargain for change of hospital or region, or is it fine to work there as a start up. Plus i don't have much money to take with me. Thanks with regards.

    ReplyDelete
  96. you must carry at least 50,000rs with you

    ReplyDelete
  97. sir,
    i am indian & I did my mbbs in china. i have 4 years of experince.My husband is working in dammam, ksa.Now i am on my visiting visa. i have applied for dataflow verification and i have received the report also. may i know the further procedure to write the sle ?

    ReplyDelete
  98. I recently heard they fire almost 150 expat doctors from KSU

    ReplyDelete
  99. In saudi any thing can happen.Difficult to work in saudi.Even the best person get bad name

    ReplyDelete
  100. help pleaseeeeeeee!! i have done my 5 years of studying in china and now want to do my internship here in riyadh ksa. any comments on how can i apply?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. any oneeeee???????

      Delete
    2. Hi! So sorry that you haven't gotten a response yet. I live in Jeddah and I'm not very sure of the procedure in Riyadh. Plus, the requirements for internship change year after year and from one hospital to the other. I know your best shot would be to apply at a teaching hospital, such as King Fahd University Hospital, King Saud University Medical City, or King Khalid University Hospital. These hospitals usually have a training department, so you would want to start by inquiring from there. I don't think you would be required to take the SLE first. It is usually the other way around, i.e., show proof of clinical experience in KSA to take the exams. But as I had mentioned before, things change a lot.

      Wish you the best in your endeavours!

      Delete
  101. Hi everyone. I am a Russian MBBS(without intern) and Indian citizen. Now i am planning for internship in saudi.Is it possible to do internship for foreign medical graduates? And after completion will i get saudi registration/licence to work there? Or i have to pass the licensing exam. Please if you answer.

    ReplyDelete
  102. Some wrong information from Dr Nayna. I fail to see why she asks personal questions. Be careful with her advice. Daprize, kudos to you.

    ReplyDelete
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  106. may i know if any of you know a Malaysians Doctor working in Riyadh ?

    ReplyDelete
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  110. Prof Dr. Rashid Zia is the best ENT specialist in Lahore.
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