Vacation Policies versus actual practices
So, some of you may have read my post that I recently accepted a job offer in Doha, and will be relocating in the next couple of weeks. I haven't ever seen any one ask this question on any thread...
As an American, even though my employer gives me 4 weeks vacation leave a year (which for USA is VERY high), I have never taken that much time off. In fact, since 2003 I have only had 2 one week long vacations (one week was for my honeymoon).
My new employer has given me 25 working days paid annual leave. Do people in Qatar/GCC/UAE, etc. actually take that much time off? Am I supposed to? If I do take 5 weeks off a year, am I going to be considered a "bad employee" or a poor team player as I would here in the States?
I understand that most European countries have long-standing policies encouraging taking all sorts of time off, but as an American, the concept is totally alien to me.
So, if I CAN take vacations and still be considered a good employee, when is it OK to take my first one after I start the job? Any time after my 90 day probation ends? After 6 months? During Ramadan?
I'm looking for any and all comments on this one. My company is owned by UAE nationals, but run by Italians if that makes a difference...
Thanks in advance for your advice!
Take all the time. The American way of work is not necessarily admired here. Most take what they are entitled to (and more). You won't can any admiration for not taking it.
U will take after u start working 10 to 12hrs a day 6 days a week
COOL GUY
treysdad.
We could carry a small number of days over to the next year but basically it was "Use it or lose it"
We get 24 working days vacation (2 days/month). If we don't consume our vacation days within the year or up to January 31 of the next year (with approval), the unused leaves are forfeited and not paid.
My advise to you, take all your vacation leave days. You are entitled to it and deserve it.
Qatar seems alot more laid back then the cut throat world of California Lee. I think you can feel safe in taking vacations here! :)
Maryum : Umm Hasan bint Abdullah Alshabrawishi
we do get 45 days leave annually, plus 14 days sick leave, plus the holidays :)
so it is normal for you to take 30 days as stipulated in your contract =D
- live your life as simple as you are
- money doesn't create man, but it is the man who created money
- don't do what others say, just listen to them, but do what you feel good
that isn't overly excessive.
We used to get 37 working days leave per year, plus public holidays
here most people also gets 28 day work and 28 days off..... or 42 - 42.. and some 4-6months in 2yrs....
Definitely take the holidays!!! People will think you're odd if you don't!
People on single status in my wife's company have 2 weeks off in every 10 - so approximately 72 days a year - and they all take it (and they come from all over the world, including America). After working 10 hours a day, 6 days a week, they deserve it!
My hubs (husband) has after every 6 months 1 month leave.... Maybe that helps? And how much will you be working a week? 6 days? and then 10-12 hours a day?
It al depends on your work load....
Goodluck with your job !!
Greetz J.
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Life is nothing without friends.... :)
That's your right. People here use their vacations to travel to exotic locales. That's one of the reasons we live here and decided to come to Qatar--for the travel opportunities.
that sounds about right! If thats what your entitled to then take it! No one will consider you a bad employee because it will be in your contract!