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i would say that it is not a good offer if the pay is lower than US because in general, pay in ME should be same or higher than US. but i guess maybe depends on the rank you are at. KSA, assuming you will continue to pay US taxes, i would not move for less than 45k SAR/month, Doha/UAE 35k QAR/AED month (as a single individual)
Enthusiast
I agree, aim for at minimum the same net income as in the US from Middle East offers.
Mentor
C1, that'd be the budget for the anxiety medications
Moved from the US to ME. Agreed that comp has to be higher - at least in net terms.
Regarding taxes as a US expat, you can use exclusions and some tax tricks. Generally you can exclude $126K per person (adjusted up every year) plus some COL allowances (eg utilities, rent). Your net calculation is sort of case by case in that you’ll be assessing your lack of tax based on wherever you pay in the US right now. The big x factor for most US citizens though is the cash bonus - no extra flat tax on that. Your individual circumstances will heavily determine your ability to bump up exclusions on foreign income.
If in Dubai or AD, your quality of life will be considerably higher for the cost as an American, but you’d have to be comfortable with a mostly car-based life. Many communities offer walkable living but half the year you’ll want to stay inside during the day. You’ll be able to afford regular drivers, Nannies / cleaners, delivery for prepared food, etc.
I don’t think I would do it unless same pay at minimum, to then get the tax bonus. But also depends on family situation. Since my wife’s profession pays more in UAE, she got a 50% pay raise net, then the tax benefit. For many though, spouses have challenges getting jobs here.
Mentor
Yes, the trailing spouse situation is very challenging in the region. Most either don't find jobs and if they do, they are not comparable to their home country.
Quality of life in the US is so much better, I would only move for Doha. Riyadh’s traffic is beyond hectic and it’s a super expensive city.