Abu Dhabi's ICU Nurse Experiences

September 22, 2022 / Advice & Tips / by CCM Australia

Can you give us a snapshot of your nursing career thus far?

Well, I have been a nurse for nearly 30 years actually. I've moved around quite a bit and have a variety of experience both in Australia and in the Middle East. Most of my nursing background is in critical care, neuro ICU but also general ICU. I even spent a few years in NICU for something different. My most rewarding jobs always included an education component or a role which involved teaching and facilitating. My current job is a Clinical Resource Nurse (clinical nurse educator) for the Neuro units here. I absolutely love the role!

Which country/ place are you working in through CCM and why did you choose this country/place as your destination?

I'm working in Abu Dhabi in the UAE. I've worked in the Middle East before, Saudi Arabia many years ago. I have always enjoyed this part of the world because of it's central location. It's not too far from any one place and travelling is cheaper from here. I also love that there is such a big expat community. You get to meet people from all different countries, backgrounds and cultures. It opens your mind.

Why did you choose to complete a short term contract?

I actually have an open contract. I plan on being here long term so an open contract suits me perfectly. I took a shorter term contract when I first came to the Middle East because I wasn't sure of what to expect. This time was different.

Please describe your lifestyle. For example, how did you spend your days/evenings/weekends off?

I think I actually have a better social life here than I did back in Australia. People who are away from home seem to make more of an effort to connect with others. I have only been here 6 months but I already have friends from UK, USA, Jordan and South Africa. We often catch up at each other's house or go to one of the many good restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
I visited the Louvre Art Gallery which was wonderful. There are short trips you can take to Oman for example. Dubai is only 1 hr 15min drive from here too.

What’s the lifestyle like in your chosen destination?

It is very comfortable actually. You have to adjust to the heat and make allowances for that in the summer months. But everything is airconditioned so it's not a problem. If you want to go out for a walk, do it when the sun comes down or before it comes up. It's very safe here so walking around at night is not a problem. Otherwise, I can live a very similar lifestyle to what I did in Australia but I'm better off financially.

What is nursing like in the UAE?

(How is it different to home and how do you adapt to the differences?) I will be honest there are some differences here. However, there's a lot about nursing that's universal. The medical system is very much like the USA system which can be a challenge at times. The nurses are from all over the world and that can be both good and challenging too. You just need to keep an open mind and accept that things are different and if you adapt to the differences while maintaining your own standards you will be fine.

What kind of facilities did you have in your accommodation and local area?

Well , the best non-job-related part about this contract was the housing allowance. I live in an awesome apartment right near the water with great views. I would never have afforded a place anywhere like this in Australia. There are plenty of supermarkets, shopping centre nearby, restaurants, bars etc. I love where I live.

What have you enjoyed most to date?

Workwise I would have to say the opportunities I have to work on a whole variety of projects. I also have some flexibility and freedom to develop my own education program. I love the role and the people I work with are great. Non-work wise I would say the friends I have made and the holiday I have planned to visit Norway and see the Northern Lights. For example, the most rewarding or your favourite aspect(s) of living/ working in.

What general advice would you give to someone thinking of travelling to SSMC?

Keep an open mind and know that changes are happening for the better. We are in an exciting transition phase from a government run facility to the Mayo Clinical model. You can be involved in that transition process which is a unique experience. Also, we do lots of great education and you can get free conferences here too. Bring a sense of adventure and the willingness to learn something new. But also bring a willingness to teach what you know to others. The facilities are brand new with all the latest equipment. It's quite amazing!

If you would you are interested in finding new places to work either locally or abroad, click here to apply.