Qatar relocation package?
I’m in the early stages of discussion with my employer in Australia who is looking at relocating me to run an office in Qatar. I am married with a 2 year old son.
I would appreciate any help in what type of package I should be looking at negotiating and what should it typically include. Any assistance would be appreciated.
Thanks G.
Here in Qatar it all depends on the owner of the property.
Some owners require a 3 to 6 months advance in payment with post dated checks until the contract is up and one months refundable deposit given back at the end of contract.( Some Cash the check and some don't it all depends on who the owner is and what he wants)
Some will accept monthly payments with a one month refundable security deposit. But you always have to pay post dated checks...
One other thing you should know before you go out with a real estate agent is that most of them will charge you a finder's fee of one months rent or 1/2 a months rent so be sure before you go with them what they want from you.
I hope this helps you!
Happy Home Hunting
Fairy
One other thing housing is very expensive in Qatar.. so be sure your have a good package with your company.. for housing allowance!!!
Dear Friend
I got job offer from doha few days back and my employer is paying me 4500 QRS against HRA without any terms that he will pay advance payment of six month against my rent house.
As per my information from my friend in dubai all of them is telling advance payment for six month is also required in doha for rented house as in dubai.
Friends, could you please give the clear picture,Is advance payment condition for six month is also applicable in Doha in rented house and also would like to know, Is the employer is paying for that.
Your prompt reponse in this matter will be highly appreciated.
V
Thanks everybody for the help so far. I'm doing my research thoroughly and your advice and comments have provided me with some great information. Much appreciated.
G.
Assuming that you are potentially coming to Qatar on a senior western expat package then items to be considered are as follows;
a) Basic Salary
This should be similar (or a little higher) than your current (gross) salary. The advantage to you is that it will be tax-free. It is usual practice that it is payable locally - you might want to check with a financial advisor if there are any restrictions on repatriating monies to Australia.
b) Accommodation Allowance
Either the company should provide accommodation of an appropriate standard, or; give you hotel-based lodging until you find accommodation. How much? 9,000QR for a 2-bed apartment, 12,000-20,000QR for a villa. Prices vary by about 2-3,000 depending on the level of furniture.
c) Vehicle / Vehicle Allowance
You can buy a Hummer for 2,000QR/month. Cars are cheap here, but still, not free.
d) Furniture Allowance
If you rent unfurnished it will cost you (say) 30,000QR for your wife to furnish it. Some companies provide an allowance.
e) Education Allowance
Whilst you don't know how long you will be here, it would be appropriate to include provision for education in your contract. Schooling here is expensive, but can be good (I don't know the numbers, though)
f) Flights
Legal requirement is one return flight a year. Business class is nice on long-haul, although Qatar Airways isn't bad. You may be able to negotiate this up.
g) Holidays
It is usual practice to have one month annual leave, with 10 paid public holidays. Do confirm.
If you have any other queries do feel free to send me a PM.
Good luck!
If you are being "seconded" to Qatar, is your future career guaranteed with your current employer and have they any other staff in Qatar that you can speak to regarding living costs?
Is the duration of the secondment fixed?
If you can assess the cost of living by searching some of the threads on the forum that should help you make a decision. Also add on a % as hardship allowance for living in Qatar.
Leave tickets must be included (I would suggest at business class level due to the distance involved).
Your child will obviously need schooling if the secondment is for over 3 years, that too is expensive.
I hope this helps and that others actually living in Qatar can contribute.
First and foremost a good accomodation. This is very very expesive in qatar. You should either ask for accomodation or fair amout of house allowance. Rest is perfect.
good 2 bed room appartment is costing around 9K.
All the best