Relocation can be quite the undertaking, especially for those who are new to the expat lifestyle. As the region’s leading provider of global mobility services, we understand how vital our support can be for individuals and families who are moving to a new destination. That is why we make sure that our field consultants are able to support our assignees with everything they need to get settled, from finding a home to securing a school placement for their children. For those interested in Qatar relocation, we asked one of our expert consultants Marianne Cederberg a few questions about what to expect from this unique location. Here are the questions we couldn’t fit in the video.

Marianne, what are your main responsibilities as a relocation consultant for EER Middle East?

My main role is to work closely with our assignees and understand their specific needs and requirements. My job is to help them get to know their new environment and so I develop and conduct bespoke orientation tours that cover all the essential information, including where to find the best coffee! We cover everything from accommodation and school searches to providing settling in support such as opening bank accounts, connecting utilities, getting a driving license and a local sim card.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I start off by organising the day’s itinerary and confirming all of the necessary appointments. I would then meet with the assignee and go over the plan for the day, ensuring that we are covering all of their specific needs. Usually we start with a city orientation, where we talk over the cultural differences, unique customs and how to access the essentials from supermarkets to medical care. We may visit a local restaurant or coffee shop to introduce them to popular spots and check in with their progress. After this we would go to pre-arranged appointments at potential accommodation options and discuss options with a reputable realtor and the steps involved to securing a home. If the assignee has dependents, I would also organise school tours to find the right place.

What is unique about the Qatar Relocation process?

There are few elements that are unique to Qatar, starting with sponsorship, which comes from the employer so the entire process is run through them, which assignees need to be aware of if they are considering changing jobs. Also, the weekend in Qatar is Friday and Saturday, which can take some getting used to. The real estate market in Qatar is also highly competitive and moves very fast, so if you see a property you like, you need to move quickly. New residents will have to adapt to very hot temperatures in the summer as well. Finally, it is incredibly important to have a Qatari ID secured as quickly as possible as it is vital for things like signing leases, getting cheque books, school placements etc.

What are the most beneficial and surprising elements about Qatar?

I think those who undergo the Qatar relocation process will be most surprised by how cosmopolitan the location is. It has a very unique blend of modernity and tradition, but it is a very multicultural place that is very welcoming to new residents. There is also so much to do and see in Qatar, with excellent attractions, beautiful parks, stunning desert and some amazing sporting events and facilities. Finally, Qatar is not only one of the safest places in the world to live, it also has no personal income tax, which can certainly be appealing to incoming expats.

If you would like to talk to one of our expert team about Qatar relocation, or any of our immigration or corporate services, please get in touch today on +971 (0)4 421 1819 or info@eerme.com.