Why Are Doctors Leaving the Middle East? A Comprehensive Analysis

Dr. Rizwan Qureshi
Feb 25
3 min read

The Middle East has long been a sought-after destination for healthcare professionals. With its tax-free salaries, proximity to home for many in South Asia, and an appealing social life in cosmopolitan cities, it offers unique advantages. Yet, despite these benefits, a growing number of doctors are leaving the region for opportunities elsewhere. This article explores the reasons behind this trend by examining migration patterns, salary structures, and the professional and social challenges faced by doctors in the Middle East.

Doctors Migrating to the Middle East: Who Are They?

Doctors migrating to the Middle East generally fall into three categories:

General Practitioners (GPs):
These include junior doctors and family medicine practitioners. Many migrate after gaining some experience in their home countries and completing licensing exams. For some, career progression depends on additional qualifications, such as the MRCGP.
Specialists:
A significant proportion of specialists hail from countries like Egypt, Libya, Sudan, Pakistan, and India. They relocate for better salaries, a tax-free income, and an improved lifestyle.
Consultants:
Often at the top of the hierarchy, consultants from Western countries (UK, US, Australia) or those with advanced qualifications (e.g., FRCS, MRCP) migrate to the Middle East for tax benefits and higher savings potential. However, their stays are often medium- to long-term, after which they return to their home countries.

Social Challenges

Rising Cost of Living:
Although salaries in the Middle East are generally high, rising inflation in cities like Dubai and Doha has made it difficult to sustain a good quality of life.
Work-Life Balance:
Long working hours, often exceeding 50–60 hours per week for GPs, contribute to burnout and dissatisfaction.
Lack of Citizenship Opportunities:
Despite long-term visa options, there is no path to citizenship in most Middle Eastern countries. This lack of permanency discourages doctors seeking long-term stability.
Educational Limitations for Children:
While schooling options have improved, higher education opportunities remain limited compared to Western countries. Additionally, visa challenges for children over 18 create further complications for families.

Discrimination and Inequality:

Many expatriate doctors report feeling like second-class citizens. Disparities in treatment between Arab and non-Arab doctors are particularly pronounced, affecting morale and job satisfaction.

Specialties Most Affected

Doctors across various specialties, including general medicine, radiology, orthopaedic surgery, emergency medicine, dermatology, and psychiatry, are increasingly seeking opportunities abroad. A notable number are pursuing pathways to countries like Australia, where structured training, better career prospects, and equitable work environments are more readily available.

Salaries in the Middle East: A Double-Edged Sword

While salaries in the Middle East are generally attractive, they vary significantly by role and experience. Average annual salaries for doctors are as follows:

United Arab Emirates: $150,000–$300,000
Saudi Arabia: $120,000–$250,000
Qatar: $140,000–$280,000
Kuwait: $130,000–$260,000
Oman: $110,000–$230,000

These packages often include benefits like housing allowances, health insurance, and educational grants for children. However, rising living costs in major cities can erode these financial advantages.

Conclusion

While the Middle East remains an attractive destination for doctors due to its tax-free salaries and proximity to home, the lack of career growth, job security, and social challenges are driving many to seek opportunities elsewhere. Countries like Australia, the UK, and Canada offer structured training, citizenship pathways, and equitable work environments, making them appealing alternatives.

For doctors considering the Middle East, it remains an excellent option for short- to medium-term financial growth. However, for long-term career development and stability, migrating to Western countries is increasingly seen as the better choice.

What are your thoughts on this trend? Share your experiences and insights below.

All images are from Canva