It makes economic sense to clear out as many expatriates as possible, before year-end 2024. It takes about 90 days to process out, which means the months of September and October. Going to work will be stressful, for the time being, as you will never be sure that your computer screen will turn blue with an ominous message to report to Human Resources in Al-Midra.
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@Okak+1usOCWAw, I know you are worried about being let go. And I know you want to try to determine how much you can budget in a worst case scenario. However, I have not known anyone to negotiate their release package - payout, retirement or COBRA. I have heard the company being generous with helping you meet a milestone (like adding 2 months to help you reach 10 years). But it was not negotiated. When the expat from HR places the piece of paper infront of you informing you of your release, ask your questions and sign the bottom line. If you are worried about money, take a quick loan while still employed and do a runner through Bahrain. Aramco and the Saudi's are too lazy to come after you.
Can anyone confirm financial details of their US payroll layoff experience? HR manual speaks of half month salary for first five years of service and one month for each additional year. This is in addition to RIP?
Anyone successful in negotiating other benefits like paid COBRA coverage, etc.? Those long tenured and on the cusp of retirement may consider raising their hand…
I was given 60 days' notice back in 2020, finished everything in 25 days. Didn't work a day after the notice. I got refunded 30 days rent after I left.
My DBS is big enough now and i am ready to collect it, so, im leaving soon and more than happy to celebrate xmas this year
Yes, been following all these different posts for about 6 years now. I have never seen down votes such as these. Something is amiss.
Wow those thobes have been busy in their offices today. Look at the downvotes!
Proof is always in the pudding, layoffs are always difficult and some companies behave deplorably. At least people here seem to be getting the dues, pity about the timing but aramco management are hardly renowned for their sense of planning… Most couldn’t even organise their own birthday party.
It's hard to qualify the statement that it's become a conpetitve place during a layoff period.
Most layoffs are based if nearing retirement age, on rewarding contacts or have wasta in their playbook. More importantly, if you are not Saudi. High work competency and outstanding results have nothing to do with it all.
That's the call of the tune. Dance along with it.
Do you expect the company to think about the children just starting the new academic year?
When you've had your orders to go, they will try to move you out as quickly as they can. Care, they won't.
What if you have kids in the school? Do they give a fig or can it be extended beyond 30 days. Why did the company not do this a couple of months ago, the new academic year has just started and this will uproot families.
Wow, sounds like a real clear out. What’s the total number let go?
Oil prices and local sentiment towards expats are only going one, way so I suspect this will continue.
It’s your 60 days notice and they want to you clear in 30 days. It can take that long to get departure clearance.
I am sure that you can. It takes as long as it takes. What can they do to you now? Keep in mind that you only go into the office if necessary for exit tasks. Just work the issues every day and soon before you know it, you will be drinking a beer on your exit flight with KSA becoming a distant memory. Don't be surprised if people that you once considered your friends avoid you somewhat.
Some are commenting they got 30 days thats nothing! Can you negotiate 30-60 days? Da---t need to pack and prepare
I was retiring so I took 90. Could have done it in 30. In fact, was done in 30 or less and then it didn't matter whether I showed at the office or not, like I was dead to everyone. It all depends on what decisions you made when you entrenched yourself and family in Dhahran. I have given advice in past post that everyone should keep in mind of all the unwinding of your position that will have to take place when you exit.
And how much notice did u get? 60?
I may be stating the obvious, but 'they' really don't want you expats there. That includes management, local employees, low rung laborers in Khobar. Lots of spitting going on as we passed by Khobar shops. At least that was my experience.
Same here, always E or E+ over the last 10 years. Very surprised when I was told. It was good whilst it lasted. Nothing bad to say.
I just realized that it took me 90 days to process out because I was retiring and was required to give 90 day notice because I took an early vacation that year and did not want to give the travel money back. The company gave me two repatriation payments in one year, if I followed their rules. The “blue computer” comments was a complaint from people that actually got laid off in 2017. If you say they don’t do that, I believe you.
I was given 60 days notice and paid for 60 days including 401k, pension and all benefits. I also received vacation buyout. If you can leave sooner, great, but in my case it took a bit of time to arrange everything with two children, relocation company, etc.
35 days notice?? That's it !
Your computer does not turn blue, it took my family and I 36 days to process out and depart. All monies owed were paid plus I did not have to report to work and still received all pay and benefits. I returned home last week and have already secured a new job starting next month. I did not see it coming, had no workplace issues, was a solid E performer for 8 years. This occurs all over the world with big corporations. Certainly, I was not pleased receiving my notice, but, the decision was made and rather than throw a fit about it, it made more sense to get home asap and get looking for a new job. I would not advocate going to work and being afraid, just instead be practical.