Nursing is a highly respected profession in Saudi Arabia, and nurses are in high demand in both government and private hospitals.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the job opportunities for nurses in the government sector, specifically the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the Ministry of Health (MOH), as well as in private hospitals.
We will discuss the qualifications required, skills needed, and salaries offered in each sector.
MOD vs MOH vs Semi-Government and Private Hospitals
In Saudi Arabia, there are different types of hospitals where nurses can work, including government, semi-government, and private hospitals.
The MOD and MOH are both government hospitals, while private hospitals are privately owned and operated.
Semi-government hospitals, on the other hand, are jointly owned by the government and private entities.
Nurses working in government hospitals, including the MOD and MOH, receive benefits such as housing allowances, health insurances. In contrast, private hospitals offer higher salaries but do not many other benefits.
Semi-government hospitals offer a middle ground, providing some benefits but also paying higher salaries.
Salaries in MOD and MOH for Nurses and Selection
In the MOD, nursing jobs are highly competitive and require a BSc Nursing degree.
GNM candidates may also apply, but preference is given to BSc Nursing graduates.
Only five out of 100 candidates may be GNM nurses, and specific skills are required for the job.
GNM nurses in the MOD can expect a salary range of 5500 to 5800 Saudi Riyals per month, with an additional 300 Riyals for food.
Even with many years of experience, the salary remains the same. Candidates with a minimum of two years of experience can apply for the job.
In the MOH, only BSc Nursing graduates are eligible to apply for nursing jobs.
A minimum of one year of experience after graduation is required, and specific skills are also required for the job.
The salary range for BSc nurses in the MOH is the same as that in the MOD, ranging from 5500 to 5800 Saudi Riyals per month for 1 year of experience. It can increase in the coming yearsafter contract.
Salary Increments in MOD vs MOH
In both the MOD and MOH, there are no salary increments for the first two years of the contract.
However, after two years, nurses can negotiate for a new salary if they join a new hospital.
Nurses in both hospitals can also change hospitals if they desire.
Overtime is also available for nurses who wish to earn extra income.
Salaries in Private Hospitals for Nurses
In private hospitals, nurses typically earn higher salaries than their government counterparts, but the competition for jobs is also higher.
The salary range in private hospitals can vary greatly depending on the hospital and the candidate’s experience.
Some private hospitals may also hire GNM nurses, but BSc Nursing graduates are typically preferred.
In conclusion, nursing is a highly respected profession in Saudi Arabia, and nurses are in high demand in both government and private hospitals.
The MOD and MOH are both government hospitals that require specific qualifications and skills for nursing jobs.
Regardless of the hospital type, nurses in Saudi Arabia have opportunities to earn good salaries and have rewarding careers.