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If you are worried that the Middle East will not offer the same shopping experiences as your North American home, think again. (Read More)

As we often form personal relationships with our candidates, it is not uncommon to receive updates and stories about their new positions overseas. Click here to read, first-hand, what they have to say! (Read More)

As we often form personal relationships with our candidates, it is not uncommon to receive updates and stories about their new positions overseas. Click here to read, first-hand, what they have to say! (Read More)

For those who are considering working in Saudi Arabia, some excellent sources of information are those who have recently arrived. Read some tips and observations from comments from 2010/early 2011. (Read More)

We're rather fond of camels at HZA -- here are some fun facts and trivia about them! Learn more.

A look at five of the fascinating desert creatures of Qatar. (Read More)

See how more than 1,000 years of tradition meets the modern world in Qatar's camel races. (Read More)

Extra! Extra! Read all about it! This list is full of great resources if you are looking to learn more about the Middle East. (Read More)

It's the World Wide Web -- literally! Websites for expatriates are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people choose to work abroad. Learn More

In 2007, it was announced that the French government will rent art, expertise, and the name "Louvre" to a new museum that will be built in Abu Dhabi. For the art lovers

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is also the wealthiest emirate. Everybody likes Abu Dhabi

The Al Jazeera satellite network brings both English-language and Arabic-language programming to the Middle East Learn More

Is the camel's hump really filled with water? Click here to find out!

When we receive inquiries about positions in the Middle East, it is difficult to explain that this is much more than a professional opportunity. In three weeks time, I was able to meet fascinating people from every continent. Imagine the people you will meet traveling for a year or longer. Imagine how your own personal story will sound. (Read More)

American Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar is strategically important for operations in the Middle East and Afghanistan. (Read More)

Carol Fleming is a former American diplomat, who after 20 years of service, resigned to marry her Saudi husband. In her blog, American Bedu, she shares her experiences of Saudi Arabia, and offers advice to those beginning their own journey to the country. We asked Carol to share her story (Read More)

What are the first words a non-Arabic-speaking expat typically learns in Saudi Arabia? (Read More)

It may be easier than you think. What are the steps involved in the recruitment process to work in the Middle East? Find out.

Having written last month about her first visit to the Middle East 30 years ago, Helen discusses her latest visit in February 2011. (Read More)

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Enjoy a ride or take a lesson! (Read More)

Are you a quilter living in Riyadh? (Read More)

Attention Triathletes! (Read More)

A look at Ramadan, and what people working in Saudi Arabia can expect during this holy month. Learn more.

The hospitals at which expats work operate in English, and there are translators available to assist in communication with patients who do not speak English. Additionally, your hospital will provide basic Arabic classes for you, and you can do further studies if you choose. Here are a few typical Arabic phrases, using an English rendering, and followed by a translation: (Read More)

Welcome to the Helen Ziegler and Associates school of the Middle East – new students welcome. (Read More)

American nurse Caroline Polt found working in Saudi Arabia to be a unique opportunity to learn about a variety of cultures. And add a few new English words to her vocabulary! (Read More)

Saudi Arabian and Canadian governments sign a healthcare initiative. (Read More)

One of the most common questions we get involve what basic things cost -- clothes, your daily caffeine fix, etc. (Read More)

Learn why recreation in Qatar allows you to experience the best of East and West! (Read More)

Prefer two wheels to four? Learn about cycling in Qatar. (Read More)

Both Muslims and Christians have been undertaking pilgrimages for more than 1,000 years. Now I have been a pilgrim, too. (Read More)

As the old year ends and and the new year begins, Helen gives a summary of 2011, and a look at 2012. (Read More)

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Sun-dappled waters filled with tropical fish in every colour, beautiful corals, and strange but delightful sea creatures ... diving in the Red Sea will thrill you. Immerse yourself!

Learn about the new US$490 million development which seeks to improve the overall healthcare system of the UAE. (Read More)

If you are a true shopaholic, not just a wannabe, Dubai is the place to be!---The event lasts for just over a month. Join the shopping frenzy.

The Dubai World Cup is a thoroughbred horse race that was first held in 1996. The invitation-only event is the world's richest race, and in 2008, its seven races had a total purse of US$21.25 million. On marks, get set, go!

Despite being one of the fastest growing and most modern cities in the world, Dubai has managed to retain its own cultural heritage. Visit the the old and the new.

Education City, Qatar is an initiative of the private, non-profit organization, the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, which was founded in 1995 by the Emir of Qatar. (Read More)

What are the eid holidays? (Read More)

Not sure what a "single-status" contract is? Wondering if, as a recent grad, you qualify for a position? Click here to find out!

What are the standard requirements to apply for a position in UAE? What are the standard contract benefits for positions in the UAE? Find out here

Find out how many expatriates are working in countries around the world! Click Here!

Learn more about falconry, an ancient -- and deadly -- sport. (Read More)

We started introducing some social/cultural FAQs about Qatar in our November 2011 Letter from the Editor ... Here is a full set! (Read More)

Run for charity! (Read More)

We're often asked: "What is it like to live in Saudi Arabia?" (Read More)

To help get you through the winter doldrums, here are a few items to make you laugh. (Read More)

As Helen prepares for another visit to Saudi Arabia, she remembers her first experience in the Kingdom more than 30 years ago. (Read More)

How exactly did Qatar win the bid for the 2022 FIFA World Cup? (Read More)

What kind of recreation clubs are there to join in Qatar? Is it a problem that I have a tattoo? We have compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions about re-locating to Qatar. Maybe you have the same questions, or maybe you never thought to ask. Click here for FAQs

Where will I live? What is the social life like there? How should I dress? Can I drive? We love questions (and spend a large part of our day answering them)! We understand that there is a lot of information that you would like to know, before you consider a position in Saudi Arabia. Here are a few of the most common questions we receive: FAQ

Considering a move to the UAE? Have questions? We've collected the most frequently asked questions to tell you what you want to know. (Read More)

"Arab nations spend more than $30 billion every year on patients suffering from hereditary diseases ..." and that the occurrence of hereditary diseases is also growing each year. Learn what's being done about the problem.

Healthcare professionals obtain a license in Saudi Arabia by endorsement of their license from the United States or Canada. So while no test is required, you will have to present the following documents once you arrive in Saudi Arabia in order to become licensed by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties . . . (Read More)

Wondering what an igama is? How many halalas are there in a rial? And what on earth is baba ghanoush? Find out in our glossary!

A sand course, you ask? (Read More)

Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a pilgrimage to Mecca - Islam's holiest city. All Muslims of a sane mind, an able body and able to bear the expenses, must perform this act of worship at least once in his/her lifetime. Performed during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, and lasting 5-days, Hajj is a series of ritual acts, which symbolize the lives of Abraham and his son Ishmael. (Read More)

Simply put, Hash House Harriers are groups of non-competitive running, social, and drinking clubs that exist in a variety of different locations throughout the world. Lore tells that the tradition dates back to the late 1930s in Kuala Lumpur Can you take the heat?

Is it really a good idea that you can know everything about a person through social media ...? Probably not.

Whether you are looking to find out what the acronym of a particular association stands for, or what those letters after a healthcare professional’s name mean, here is the glossary to help you find out the meanings of various healthcare degrees, associations, and credentials. (Read More)

The high tea evening buffet was an awesome display of amuse bouche and light fare. Smoked salmon was served on a paper-thin crepe. Gourmet cheeses were spread onto thin, freshly baked breads. Some diners sipped pink Saudi champagne (non-alcoholic, of course) while enjoying bite-size sandwiches, salads, and desserts. Read More

100,000 things to see while you're in Saudi Arabia ... or maybe you should just choose a few! (Read More)

The popular expat website "Qatar Living" provides fascinating feedback from those experienced in vehicle purchase in Qatar, which can help you to avoid disappointment and, for the true car-lover, devastation as you search for your new baby. (Read More)

Don't want to leave your four-legged friend behind? Learn more about bringing your pet abroad. (Read More)

How "well connected" is Qatar? (Read More)

We're setting foot in Facebook with both feet. (Read More)

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Bringing children with you? Here is a list of schools in Qatar that you may want to enroll your child in. (Read More)

On a married status contract? Learn about local educational options for your kids. (Read More)

Which prestigious Western universities have set up branch campuses in Qatar? Find out.

Western institutions of higher education are developing a presence in the UAE. Learn about the North American institutions.

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A new year and a time for new beginnings. Welcome 2010!

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Abu Dhabi -- there's no Sex in this City! (Read More)

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Learn about a new, international, graduate-level research university set along the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, approximately 80km north of Jeddah. (Read More)

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Find Out!

Qatar's wealth is built on natural gas. (Read More)

A look at some factors that will prevent -- at least temporarily -- your application from being approved. Learn more.

Want to learn about typical Middle Eastern ingredients, and sample a few appetizers before you head off to begin your adventure in the Middle East? Here are three recipes!

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With its expanding production of natural gas and oil, this tiny country is now investing in and developing its education and healthcare infrastructure. Read about the developments.

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An overview of the United Arab Emirates -- the basics, religion, women, industry/economy, climate, and topography. (Read More)

Looking for another way to learn about the Middle East? Check out some of these films, in the General Release/Popular Cinema/Foreign-Language Films category and the documentary category. And don't forget the film festivals! (Read More)

This first-time visitor to the Magic Kingdom finds Saudi Arabia to be as exotic as she expected ... but surprisingly familiar, too. (Read More)

Dawn Leslie relocated to the King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre a year ago in 2010, and has written about her last year. (Read More)

Neil Francoeur, RN, MHA, relocated to Qatar in March 2010, to begin work at the Sidra Medical Centre, and was kind enough to offer the following tips and information to those relocating to Qatar. (Read More)

As we post more vacancies in Qatar, Helen thought she would answer some of the more practical/common questions. (Read More)

In addition to tax-free income and adventure, one of the draws of working in Saudi Arabia is the benefit package. (Read More)

Why do I have to declare a religion? Find out.

Are you a woman thinking about relocating to Saudi Arabia? Read this FAQ containing the questions most often asked by women considering a move to the Kingdom. (Read More)

A look at the way the political system of the United Arab Emirates is organized. (Read More)

Qatar is a sports-loving nation. In addition to traditional sports such as falconry, camel racing, horse racing, and traditional boat racing, modern sports are also popular -- particularly soccer. (Read More)

Where the Waves of Modernity Meet the Shores of the Past: The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar. (Read More)

Small, wealthy, and with no strategic agenda ... Qatar is well-positioned to play mediator.

Attention soccer fans! Qatar will host FIFA 2022!

Got kids? Here are a few places to take them for some fun while in Qatar! (Read More)

Want to apply for a position in the Middle East? Here are some tips for your resume. (Read More)

Are you a diehard runner who isn't afraid of a little heat? Learn about these running groups and marathons in Qatar, the UAE, and elsewhere in the Middle East. (Read More)

In a sky-scraper race to the top, Saudi Arabia's Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal will take first prize with the Kingdom Tower - the soon-to-be world's tallest building. (Read More)

Guess who has a budget surplus for 2011? (Read More)

"Single-status" is one of the most often asked about issues when people are considering positions in the Middle East. Learn more.

Understandably, the most commonly asked questions are about salary ... (Read More)

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What is Sharia law? Briefly stated, Sharia law is the wide body of Islamic religious law. Sometimes referred to as “Islamic law” or “Muslim law.", it is one of the three most common systems of law, after common and civil law. (Read More)

Wondering what life is like for a single Western guy in Qatar? Find out!

A question that frequently comes up among our female candidates is "What is it like for a single woman in Qatar?" Find out!

Are you a sports fan heading to Saudi, and looking for your fix? Read more!

Wondering what to expect and how to prepare for your telephone interview? Find out.

Despite humble beginnings in Qatar just over 25 years ago, the popularity of tennis in the country has soared. (Read More)

Learn about five of the creatures of Qatar that come out at night. (Read More)

Learn about Qatar's Aspire Zone, which is seeking to become a “centre of excellence” in sport education and training, health and sports medicine, and leisure and recreation. (Read More)

Even the best planned vacations can be interrupted by glitches and emergencies. Before you leave, protect yourself with travel insurance. (Read More)

Expand your mind, and enjoy fascinating debates on topics of concern to the Arab world and the world at large. Tune in to the Doha Debates!

Wondering what the five pillars of Islam are? Find out.

How does the healthcare system work in Qatar? Learn about the Qatari healthcare system.

The healthcare system has two tiers. One is a network of primary healthcare centers and clinics that provide preventive, prenatal, emergency, and basic services, as well as mobile clinics for remote rural areas. The second tier is represented by the hospitals and specialized treatment facilities located in urban areas. Learn about the Kingdom's healthcare system.

Saudi Arabia follows the Islamic, or Hejira calendar, which is a lunar calendar. The Islamic calendar has 12 months, which are 29 or 30 days long, so the Islamic calendar year is 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar year. (Read More)

A multi-billion dollar planned city, envision as a home for 2 million people, is being built along Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast. For what reasons?

Since its founding in 1932, Saudi Arabia has had six kings. Learn more.

The markets are described as pure chaos, with thousands of camels rattling in their rusty pens, men from all over hoisting their purchases into the back of their pick-ups, and the screams of animals mixed with sand, heat, and, presumably smell! Read More

The following is excerpted from Stephen Sullivan's (a gastroenterologist and marathoner) unpublished journal, Letters from the Magic Kingdom, which is a compilation of letters detailing his experiences in Saudi Arabia. (Read More)

Want an overseas coastal property? Consider real estate in Qatar! (Read More)

Now that's waterfront property! Visible from space, the Palm islands of Dubai are a group of artificially made islands in the shape of a palm tree. Learn More

Before natural gas, Qatar's economy was based on pearling. Would you have survived even one day as a pearl diver? (Read More)

A look at the way the political system of Kuwait is organized. (Read More)

A look at the way the political system of Qatar is organized. (Read More)

A look at the way the political system of Saudi Arabia is organized. (Read More)

Thanks to Qatar's large expatriate community, Qataris represent only about 20% of the workforce in their own land! (Read More)

A private, chartered, nonprofit organization that seeks to advance education and quality of life in Qatar and the region. (Read More)

From education to healthcare, from politics to law, Qatari women are increasingly entering the public sphere. Learn more.

On January 26th, 2009, Elaine Ng, Recruitment Associate; Dominika Kaleta, Logistics Manager; and I, Recruitment Assistant, went on a site visit to the King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Riyadh. There, we met up with one of the best known expat social groups in the world: The Hash House Harriers. (Read More)

What are the top 11 must-dos in Saudi Arabia? (Read More)

The top 12 Must-Sees in Saudi Arabia are ... (Read More)

When in public in Saudi Arabia -- e.g., when in taxis, malls, souqs -- Saudi women wear a long black cloak, known as an abaya and they cover their hair. When you think about it, abayas aren't that bad! Find Out Why!

If you have a few million dollars to spare (at least 15, to be exact), you can travel "The World" and never leave Dubai. See how.

What do you think is the greatest fear people have concerning relocating to Qatar ... Give up? It's the driving!

Calling all history buffs! Learn about the varied UNESCO World Heritage Sites Near Qatar, which you may want to visit on your next vacation! (Read More)

Are you a Canadian or American wondering how to get a visa for Qatar? We have all the information you need to know. (Read More)

Canadians -- wondering how to get a visa to work in Saudi Arabia? We have all the information you need! (Read More)

Americans -- wondering how to get a visa to work in Saudi Arabia? We have all the information you need! (Read More)

Going to Qatar? Bring your swimsuit! (Read More)

What can you expect weather-wise when you move to Saudi Arabia? Find out!

Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming. Learn more about culture shock and the steps that you can take to avoid it. (Read More)

Learn about JCI, a division of JCAHO, which evaluates healthcare facilities outside of the United States. (Read More)

Prayer is one of the five pillars of Islam. Prayers are supposed to be performed five times daily: at dawn, midday/noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, and nightfall, and can last up to a half an hour. (Read More)

In addition to the information our site offers, it is always interesting to get a second opinion. So we looked at what well-known experts in tourism are saying about Qatar and its capital Doha. (Read More)

With few exceptions, we meet with each of our candidates in person before they set off for their adventures abroad. We do this for several reasons: Click here to find our why!

Working in the Middle East requires a lot of paperwork - both before and after you receive a job offer! But one of the most surprising items is the medical questionnaire to be submitted along with the initial application. Why is it necessary?

Interested in eco-exploring, bird-watching, or wildlife-watching while in Saudi Arabia ...? (Read More)

FOUR! (Read More)

You finally have the chance to take that trip (or those trips!) you've always dreamed of. But read this before you pack your bags.

Who holds the record for the world's largest chopstick? Click here to find out!

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