Saudi Arabia: Is it Still a Safe Haven for Expats?

Mohamad Al Darwish, Legal Affairs Director - Middle East, United Technologies Corporation (Carrier), UAE

Saudi Arabia’s discovery of oil in the 1930’s initiated its need for foreign workers to help exploit its oil reserves, which reached its peak with the oil-price boom after the 1973 oil crisis, in addition to the various infrastructure and development projects that the Kingdom desperately needed. As a result, and despite its conservative society and traditions and the harsh weather, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia became the ultimate destination for job seekers from all over the world. “According to official figures in 2012, foreign workers filled 66 per cent of jobs in Saudi Arabia, despite an official unemployment rate of 12 per cent amongst Saudis; and expatriates sent, on average, US$18 billion each year, in remittances to their home countries. ”

A lawyer with over 12 years of experience in the Middle East and GCC, with experience in Corporate and Commercial aspects, M&A, and Labor Laws. A lecturer on how to draft contracts, labor law, and consumer protection laws. Currently Legal Affairs Director - Middle East for United Technologies Climate, Controls, Security Division

United Technologies Corporation (UTC) is an American multinational conglomerate. It researches, develops, and manufactures high-technology products in numerous areas, including aircraft engines, aerospace systems, HVAC, elevators and escalators, fire and security, building systems, and industrial products, among others. UTC operate through its four entities: Otis, Carrier, Pratt & Whitney, and UTC Aerospace Systems.