For thousands of Indian nurses, working in Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Oman is not just a job — it’s a life-changing journey. While the Gulf offers better salaries, facilities, and respect, many still wonder: What is daily life really like for a nurse living and working in the Middle East?
We spoke to Indian nurses working across the Gulf and compiled their real experiences to give you a complete picture.
Meet the Nurses :
1. Ayesha, B.Sc Nurse – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
“Back in Kerala, I was earning ₹25,000/month. Today, I earn over ₹1.1 lakh, live in a clean, furnished staff accommodation, and my hospital even provides food. Yes, I miss home, but I feel proud to support my family and save for my future.”
Work Hours: 8-hour shifts with overtime
Accommodation: Free, women-only nurse quarters
Language Barrier? “Basic Arabic is enough – patients are friendly.”
Biggest Challenge: Being away from home
Biggest Gain: “Financial independence and confidence”
2. Deepa, GNM Nurse – Dubai, UAE
“Dubai is modern, fast, and safe. As a nurse, I feel respected. My salary is tax-free, and I even bring my husband here on a dependent visa.”
Work Environment: Multinational team, clean facilities
Salary: AED 6,000/month (₹1.35 lakh approx.)
Benefits: Annual vacation + flight tickets
Weekend Activities: Visiting malls, Indian restaurants, beaches
Advice: “Be professional, punctual, and open-minded.”
3. Safiya, Nurse Educator – Madinah, Saudi Arabia
“After 5 years as a staff nurse, I got promoted to a nurse educator role. The Gulf appreciates experience and rewards dedication.”
Working Since: 2016
Visa Status: Permanent contract renewed every 2 years
Respect Level: “Nurses are treated like professionals here.”
Religious Comfort: “Plenty of prayer rooms and halal food – I feel at home.”
Cultural Life in the Gulf – Is It Difficult for Indians?
Not at all! In fact, most Gulf countries have:
Large Indian communities
Indian restaurants, temples, and churches
Festivals like Diwali, Eid, and Onam celebrated by expats
Hindi, Malayalam, and Tamil-speaking coworkers and patients
Fun Fact: Many nurses say they feel safer in the Gulf than in metro cities in India, especially women working night shifts.
Living Conditions
Accommodation: Free or subsidized, secure, and near hospitals
Food: Provided by hospitals or allowance given
Transport: Free staff shuttle or public transport
Climate: Hot summers, but all hospitals are air-conditioned
Work Culture & Growth
Disciplined and professional work environment
Standard shift timings (usually 8-12 hours)
Chance of promotion to senior nurse, in-charge, or educator roles
Respect for female professionals is high
Real Challenges Nurses Face
Homesickness during festivals or family events
Cultural adjustment in the first few months
Learning basic Arabic terms for medical use
Handling emergency shifts or high patient loads (in some hospitals)
But most agree: “The rewards outweigh the challenges.”
Conclusion: A Life-Changing Opportunity
The life of an Indian nurse in the Gulf is filled with dignity, discipline, and growth. While the start may feel tough, the journey leads to financial freedom, professional success, and family support.
If you’re a nurse dreaming of working abroad, know that thousands have walked this path before you — and succeeded.
