The Gulf between us

The Middle East is crying out for facilities managers to expand its young, booming market. There may be challenges but the move is less daunting than you might think

By Danielle Le Faucheur

19 October 2007

The FM market in the Gulf is estimated to reach a value of £434 billion over the next 25 years, according to Middle East Strategy Advisors (Mesa). The figure shows that the FM market in the United Arab Emirates alone is potentially worth £345 billion. The markets in Saudi Arabia and Qatar will be worth £47 billion and £45 billion, respectively. FM is still a new concept in the Middle East and experts predict that the industry will eventually surpass the region’s thriving construction business.

Due to the confusion surrounding FM in the Middle East the initial demand is for property management staff who can develop an FM model suited to the region. UK-based candidates looking to relocate here need to be aware that their UK model will not function well in the Middle East as the market is still very young. This applies to Asian, Australian and South African candidates as well.

Staff moving to the Middle East must also be aware that part of their role is to educate clients about the FM discipline. Clients may already have requirements but it is up to facilities managers and operations managers to direct these requirements to develop a standard FM model which suits the market.

Recruiting FM staff for the Middle East is a rigorous process. Candidates must use their expertise innovatively, applying ideas differently while training local facilities managers. Candidates moving into this market in 2007 will be at the forefront of FM development and it is essential that they are forward thinkers, culturally aware and highly skilled in their field as the buildings in Dubai are completely different to any other international market.

For some facilities managers in the UK the Middle East may seem a daunting move. However, for those who have taken the plunge the feeling among them is:
"Why did I take so long to do this?"

The FM market out here is challenging and exciting. FM is such a young and booming market and many FMs have highlighted the fact that the projects they are involved with are now some of the best in the world and offer experience they could not gain anywhere else. This experience will in turn open up opportunities in other markets.

1  Finding work

Several UK FM recruitment consultancies operate overseas and advertise vacancies in trade and business magazines, online and in the UK national press. We offer our candidates a consultative service and are able to advise on suitable opportunities in the market that match candidates’ experience.

Once we have qualified your expectations, your CV will be sent to specified clients. Upon receiving feedback we will set up the interview for you, which can be over the phone or face to face. We will manage the process on your behalf up to offer stage, making the move as stress-free as possible.

2  Qualifications

It is essential that you have real estate experience as this is an integral part of the Middle East economy, demand for property being so high. The main roles on offer at present are: retail facilities managers, service providers, maintenance managers, and FM directors, with FM consultants being in most demand.

International experience is preferable but not essential. You will need to have worked on some of the most prestigious projects and for recognised UK firms. Most companies here will look for people qualified to degree level and BIFM members. It is also essential that you have not moved job too often.

3  The right move?

Relocating to a foreign country is a big life change. If you are serious about moving to the Middle East it is worth visiting Dubai to see if you actually like the place. It is also a good way to meet potential employers as they are more likely to speed up the process if they know you are there.

4  Benefits

Obviously the first benefit is that the Middle East is tax-free and this makes a huge difference when you live here. Also, the change in lifestyle is amazing in comparison to the UK. Most packages that are offered here are based on your current salary in the UK before tax.

Living costs are relatively low. However, housing costs are high because there are not enough villas/apartments to go round. When renting you will have to present the landlord with two cheques to cover rent for six months at a time. However, most employers will assist by deducting rent from your monthly wage.

5  FM in Dubai

Dubai is a fantastic market for UK facilities managers looking to enter a dynamic market. However, it may not be an easy move when coming from an established market in the UK to one that is in its infancy.

This, coupled with the cultural difference may cause frustration for some as business does not always run smoothly here. But this is the challenge that we all face and if you are not daunted then Dubai could be the right place for you.

It’s such an exciting place, with developments all around you, and the city growing before your very eyes – which is truly amazing.

Making your move

• Research Dubai. Could you live here?

• Research the companies thoroughly

• Make sure you are serious about the move Clients will move fast if they want you

• Speak to your recruitment consultant as much as possible. Ask questions about the company you are being interviewed by

• At interview, be prepared to answer questions about why you want to live in Dubai

• Consider the benefits of a tax-free salary

• Do not expect accommodation to be included – this is a competitive move

• Have a salary figure in mind before applying

Danielle Le Faucheur is senior consultant with Macdonald and Company Overseas