Midwife, Anoesjka, studied at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. In 2016 she relocated to Al Ain in Abu Dhabi and worked in the labour and delivery unit at Tawam Hospital.
Read on to learn more about her experience working as a midwife in the Middle East.
Why were you interested in moving to Abu Dhabi?
“I wasn’t the type of person who wanted to leave my country. However, after applying to study medicine several times and failing to gain admission, I decided that I needed to go down a different route to get more experience and thought the change of scenery would do me good.
“I am also eager to learn and want to study while I am here so I can gain new skills and procure a better future for myself.”
What do you think are the key benefits of living in Abu Dhabi?
“For me, some of the key benefits of relocating to Abu Dhabi included the tax-free salary and opportunities for overtime. Al Ain is also quite a family-orientated city and has less of a big and busy feel.”
How do you find working as a midwife in Abu Dhabi compared to other places you’ve worked?
“I arrived at the beginning of Ramadan, which was a bit problematic HR-wise as people work fewer hours. However, I got allocated a preceptor (mentor) in the ward to show me around and demonstrate how everything works. I am extremely lucky at this stage with my preceptor who is very willing to teach me, which has made a big difference to my experience.
“Luckily all babies are delivered the same way because a few practices are different from what I am used to at home but with time I will adjust. The computerised system is new and the doctors here are very different. I have to complete quite a few competencies before I am allowed to perform certain actions, which I feel is good practice to ensure proper execution and better patient care.”
What have you discovered since your relocation there?
Heat
“It is very hot...even though temperatures are high it is a different type of heat to South Africa. Sun block, sun glasses and umbrella are a necessity!”
Clothing
“Clothing may change depending on the time of the year. For example, during Ramadan clothing is more conservative.”
Food
“The food is cheap if you earn in AED but expensive if it is converted to Rand. For example, a McDonald’s meal costs around 20 AED which is about 80 Rand.”
Travel
“Taxis are expensive – around 3.50 AED to start and 1.60 AED each kilometre after that. My tip is to make friends and travel together, it is much cheaper. Buses are available and cost around 2 AED per bus trip but it takes time to figure them out. If however, you do get lost, you discover interesting places!”
Shopping
“Ask around to find nice places to shop. Although people are friendly, they won’t offer information unless you ask. Everything is open until late, usually from 10am to 11pm.”
Misconception
“There is a very big misconception about women in the United Arab Emirates. Women are able to drive, they are allocated a seat first on buses and we even have female taxi drivers. The men in Abu Dhabi are very polite and will open doors for you.”
How would you rate the support you received from Medacs Healthcare?
“The support I received from the team was great. I am happy with Medacs Healthcare and have referred a few people already! Thank you very much, I am really happy to be here in Abu Dhabi.”
Are you interested in working in the Middle East? Please register your details or visit our Middle East nursing and midwifery jobs page.
Originally published: September 2016
