For many professionals in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and across the GCC, salary is the first—and often only—consideration when evaluating a new job offer. While compensation is undoubtedly important, more and more workers are recognizing that other aspects of a benefits package—such as healthcare, flexibility, and opportunities for growth—are just as crucial in ensuring long-term job satisfaction and career success.
In a recent episode of BaytCast, Hani Alahdal, an accomplished HR leader in Saudi Arabia, shared his experience in transforming Sabic’s healthcare benefits, which offers a clear illustration of how employers in the region are increasingly recognizing that the full package matters, not just the paycheck.
Historically, salary has been the centerpiece of any job negotiation. But as the Gulf economies continue to evolve, so too do the expectations of the region's workforce. In particular, the rise of remote work and flexible hours, coupled with greater awareness of the importance of health and wellness, has made negotiating beyond salary more important than ever.
Hani’s work at Sabic to improve employee healthcare is a perfect example. In the podcast, he described how overhauling healthcare benefits wasn’t just about meeting legal requirements, but about genuinely improving the well-being of Sabic’s employees. This initiative helped the company stand out in a competitive market, showing that taking care of your workforce goes beyond just offering a paycheck.
In the past, most GCC companies offered standard healthcare plans, but today’s job seekers are increasingly demanding comprehensive coverage. Healthcare benefits are no longer just about a basic hospital visit; they now encompass mental health support, dental and vision care, and other wellness services.
In the BaytCast episode, Hani shared how Sabic’s upgraded healthcare program was designed to support both physical and mental health. This type of benefit is becoming essential in the modern job market, where stress, burnout, and overall health are key concerns for employees. When negotiating a job offer, it's crucial to ensure that the healthcare package is robust, family-inclusive, and reflective of your personal health needs.
Gone are the days when employees had to clock in at the office from 9 to 5 every day. The new era of work in the GCC emphasizes flexibility, particularly when it comes to remote work and adjustable work hours. As Hani discussed in the podcast, flexibility has become a significant factor for professionals in the region, especially post-pandemic. Whether it's the ability to work from home a few days a week or the option to adjust your hours to accommodate personal commitments, these factors are increasingly non-negotiable.
When negotiating a new role, ask for the flexibility that works for your lifestyle. Companies that are resistant to these modern demands may be limiting their ability to attract top talent. Flexible work arrangements are often seen as a critical component of employee satisfaction and productivity.
While a competitive salary may secure your attention, long-term career growth often hinges on the professional development opportunities a company offers. As Hani’s story at Sabic illustrates, growth comes not just from moving up the ladder, but from continuously expanding your skill set and taking on new challenges. Hani’s journey from industrial engineering to leading large-scale talent strategies shows that success is built on learning and adapting to new areas of responsibility.
When evaluating a job offer, ensure the company provides opportunities for training, mentorship, and career advancement. These are the investments that will help you stay engaged and continue to grow throughout your career, even after the initial excitement of a new role fades.
In the latest episode of BaytCast, CEO Rabea Ataya interviewed Hani Alahdal about his career and his work in transforming Sabic’s employee benefits. Hani’s journey—from an industrial engineer to an HR leader—highlights the importance of continuously learning and adapting. He emphasized that when negotiating a job offer, employees should not only look at salary but also consider the full range of benefits that will contribute to their well-being and career development.
Hani’s experience with Sabic is a prime example of how comprehensive benefits—such as healthcare, work flexibility, and growth opportunities—are now integral parts of any competitive job offer in the GCC. These benefits not only ensure employee satisfaction but also foster loyalty and long-term success.
You can listen to the full BaytCast interview on YouTube or stream the audio on Spotify, Anghami, and Apple Podcasts.
When negotiating your next job offer, keep these key benefits in mind:
Healthcare: Ensure your healthcare package is comprehensive, with coverage for both physical and mental health, family coverage, and additional services like dental and vision care.
Flexibility: Ask about flexible working hours or the option to work from home. These arrangements are increasingly crucial for achieving a healthy work-life balance.
Growth Opportunities: Inquire about training programs, certifications, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities. A job that offers growth will help ensure your long-term success.
Work Culture: Consider the company’s culture and work environment. A supportive, positive culture can significantly enhance your job satisfaction.
To successfully negotiate a comprehensive benefits package, follow these steps:
Research the Market: Compare the benefits packages offered by other companies in your industry to understand what’s standard and what’s exceptional.
Know Your Priorities: Identify the benefits that matter most to you, whether it’s healthcare, flexibility, or growth opportunities.
Show Your Value: Demonstrate your unique skills and the value you’ll bring to the company. The more confident you are, the better terms you can negotiate.
Be Prepared to Walk Away: If the company isn’t willing to meet your needs in terms of benefits, be prepared to walk away. The right job will offer the benefits that align with your personal and professional goals.
