Kuwait is one of the most popular destinations for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). However before accepting a job offer in Kuwait or to any other foreign countries, there are things that should be considered to ensure that the job offer would be truly beneficial.
An aspiring OFW might be interested to know details about the working and living conditions of foreign workers in this country. So Filipinos bound for Kuwait are advised to research about salary and cost of living information in Kuwait before departure or contract signing.
One thing that you should clear to the POEA agency that will deploy you is accommodation arrangements. Will the employer provide for your housing, transportation and food? Consider yourself lucky if accommodation will be provided because saving money will then be a lot easier. However, in case the employer will not shoulder or provide an allowance for your basic needs, then consider the salary offer and see if the money left would be enough for you to conclude that going to Kuwait is still worth it.
To guide you in your decision, read some advise below from members of OFWGuide Forum for Filipinos who want to work in Kuwait:
According to OFWGuide Forum member, techspeak, food is not so expensive in Kuwait. One may allot at least 25KD monthly and this would already include your toiletries. Another forumer with a username serendipitous2011 adds that there is also catering that offers a monthly food package for 14KD.
The forumers further said that some employers in Kuwait offer free accommodation while some do not. In case that your employer will not offer free accommodation, your budget for a sharing-room would be around 35-50kd monthly. The same thing can be said for transportation; there are companies that offer free transport service to employees but you need to follow a strict shuttle schedule. For those without transportation allowance, you need to allot at least 15KD for this.
Forumer serendipitous2011 also advised Filipinos who will work in Kuwait to bring their own set of clothes because buying clothes in Kuwait would cost you a lot of money. For your mobile load, you may allot 10KD monthly and the charge for internet usage is around 9KD.
You should also be aware that foreign workers in Kuwait are entitled to 30 days vacation leave with pay every year. The foreign employer should also shoulder the airfare of the OFW.
Other Info About Kuwait
Kuwait is an OFW-friendly country but still it is a Muslim country that expects non-Muslim expatriates, visitors and foreign workers to respect their religious beliefs and practices. The following are things one should avoid doing while working in Kuwait:
1. Public Display of Affection
2. Wearing of shorts or tight-fitting clothes for women.
3. Bringing of drugs, alcohol pork products and obscene materials.
4. Driving while in the influence of liquor.
5. Living with person that is not your wife of husband.
If you are want to know more about working in Kuwait, then we invite you to visit www.ofwguideforum.com and check out this topic To OFWs in Kuwait
