The global difference

The global difference in Muscat, Oman

In order to help our graduates who want to become expatriates, we asked alumni around the globe to tell us how their workplace culture differs to the UK’s.

Insight from Maan Alasfoor, Business Development Manager and alumnus, BA Hons Mechanical Engineering (2000)

We are generally a very hospitable society. I think most expats would be welcome, so far as they commit themselves to the sharing and transfer of knowledge. If they are committed to this and are active in local and Omani development, then I know for a fact that — almost always — they end up staying for a long time. In some cases, they will find that other opportunities become available for them.

Whether they know Arabic or not does not make a difference. What matters most is being empathetic with the culture, the difference in work ethics and respecting differences in dealing with competency gaps and performance.

For CVs, there is a huge dependency on the British system. The layout used is still the same as what I learned at RGU.

There are a few large, international organizations that attract the best talent and offer meaningful placements. If the opportunity exists, seek advice, be knowledgeable about your material and present yourself in a positive manner. Who knows? Your opportunity might translate into a job prospect.