Cost of living in Doha

SFarch

New member

Member since 23 March 2013

San Francisco

SFarch

25 March 2013 20:50:00

SFarch

25 March 2013 20:50:00

San Francisco

I've just been offered an assignment in Doha. I'm a 42 yr old single male working for a US architectural firm. This would be our first project in the region and abroad. What considerations should I bring up with my employer as far as living arrangements and cost of living, etc.
Also, it's an 18 month assignment. They did mention that they would provide a place to live and transportation, but I'm hoping that there's room to negotiate a package. Can anyone comment on what your companies are assisting you with? I'm currently renting and will need to break my lease...
Thanks for any advice!

Aurélie

ViP

Member since 02 May 2012

Guérande

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Aurélie

26 March 2013 11:42:23

22735

Aurélie

26 March 2013 11:42:23

22735

Guérande

Hello SFarch.

Welcome to Expat.com!

Aurélie

SFarch

New member

Member since 23 March 2013

San Francisco

SFarch

26 March 2013 16:24:52

SFarch

26 March 2013 16:24:52

San Francisco

Hi Aurelié-
Glad to be here.

dragonladyoz

Contributor

Member since 23 May 2012

Doha

dragonladyoz

26 March 2013 17:40:12

158

dragonladyoz

26 March 2013 17:40:12

158

Doha

Companies are required to provide medical coverage and most expat packages will also include either accommodation or an allowance - utilities allowance - travel allowance (or car) and most include a return airfare home once a year. Other than that there is often an education allowance paid, which is not applicable in your case, so friends in a similar situation always negotiate a higher salary as you will not be claiming this. Some companies offer a bonus payment each year and I think that companies are also pay an end of contract gratuity.