RTK123
3/9/2014 10:26 EST
Hi,
I am travelling to Kuwait for final interview / negotiations on a position next week. Having never been to this part f the world was wondering if anyone could advise on the following points,
1. Any business customs I should be conscious of?
2. Areas for living - I have 3 kids and a wife and if successful will need to have a look at somewhere nice to live. Was hoping to have a look around while there - but not sure where to start?
3. Life style - have read lots of conflicting information and would welcome someone's real life experiences.
Thanks very much to anyone who has time to respond.
All the best,
Ryan
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gmnq8
3/11/2014 06:29 EST
First, congratulations on the potential new position. In response to your questions:
1. Most all business is conducted in English, and most businessmen in Kuwait are very Westernized. I wouldn't worry about any indigenous business customs. Just be polite and honest.
2. The important thing is to live somewhere close, or as close as practical, to where you will be working. If, for instance, you're working for the Oil Company, whose HQ is in Ahmadi, then you would want to live in or close to Ahmadi. If you're going to be working downtown, then I would suggest that you live as close to downtown as practical. Traffic can be a real problem, especially in the mornings and early evenings.
3. I'm American, and have lived here for 23 years now. The lifestyle is fine. It's safe here, very safe. And having had two children graduate from school here, I can tell you that they received a good education. Bear in mind that schools here are very expensive. Make sure those costs are part of your compensation package.
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amerki
3/12/2014 05:28 EST
Hi! 1. In regards to business customs, I would just stick to your usual standard of professionalism with any job. 2. With 3 kids I would hope your prospective package will include school tuition and fees. My colleague (Kuwaiti National) sends her kids in grade school to the American School, and pays approx. USD$14K/year for each child. I would base the area where you decide to live, on the location of the schools. Once you locate the areas, just do a search online for apartments for rent in those areas. There are a number of realtor websites, with photos and descriptions. Just FYI: The cost of rent has gone up dramatically in Kuwait. Your employment package should include a housing allowance. 3. I'm an American national and I'm on my 10th year in Kuwait. It was indeed a culture shock the first year, but you get used it. I live very comfortably, and enjoy a lot of luxuries I do not find at home. Things like maid service, daily car washings, etc. and it costs me USD20 to fill up my tank! Good luck to you Ryan!
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