When asked about dream overseas work destinations, Filipino workers would rarely mention Middle Eastern countries. In fact, there would even be Filipinos that would specifically say that they do not want to work in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, etc. Usual answers would cite countries in Europe or North America such as United States of America (USA), Canada and United Kingdom.
The misconceptions that many Filipino workers have about Gulf countries are probably the reason why many Filipino workers would want to shun the idea of working there.
It is unfortunate because the most number of job vacancies for Filipino workers are actually in the Middle East countries. Saudi Arabia has always been the top destinations for OFWs so being bounded by the misconceptions means missing out on excellent employment opportunities for Filipino workers.
So instead of relying on hearsay and few anecdotes, it is best to keep an open mind. Here are some misconceptions about Middle East countries:
Weather in the Middle East is always hot and dry. Some Filipinos would say that they do not want to work in Saudi or UAE because they don’t like the weather in a desert- scorching hot and dry that it is probably a pain to work there. However, Middle East is not very hot all the time. They also have a winter season when the weather would be extremely cold.
Besides many OFWs who work indoors may hardly notice the hot weather since most houses, transportation and establishments would be air-conditioned.
Middle East is a frightening place. With all the strict rules that one needs to follow in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries, some Filipinos think that it is a place where one can be severely punished for even the slightest reason. However, the truth is that many countries in the Middle East only want to effectively implement their rules and regulations. The result is a country with disciplined citizens. Filipinos who want to make it in the Middle East should be ready to respect the traditions and follow the rules at all times.
It is very important for an OFW in Saudi to have legal working papers. It is also advisable to carry the iqama (residency permit) at all times. One may even feel safer on the Middle East because crime reports are minimal.
People in Middle Eastern countries are mean and cruel. Quite a number of OFWs particularly those working as household workers experienced maltreatment from their employers in countries like Kuwait, Iran , Saudi etc. Hence the notion that working there would mean dealing with hostile and strange individuals.
However the fact that there are so many Filipinos in the Middle East is a proof alone that the people can be very accommodating to Filipinos. Just like in any other place, one just needs to understand that unique ways and culture of the people.
Be extra sensitive by knowing that a joke or gesture that will be funny in the Philippines may not be acceptable for them. Make and effort to reach out to them and you may soon earn their trust and admiration.
