Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Dependents or Wives of Expats are usually not allowed to work. It is clearly stated in the visa: "NOT PERMITTED TO WORK". So since we arrived in 2008, I was a full time mom and wife.
In 2013, I learned that there is a group of Filipinas who work part time for hotels all over the city. I asked some of my friends if they can sign me up for the gig, fortunately, I was called to work. Eventually, I became a regular part timer of the group. We usually go to work during the night. Around 8pm and we go home around 6am the next morning. These are because, Saudi weddings usually start at 10pm and then the guests will have their dinner at 2 in the morning!
Our main tasks include:
- Cleaning of utensils, glasswares, plates and other dinning wares.
- Setting up tables for guests.
- When guests arrive, we have to assist them with drinks and their other needs.
- Clean up their plates, utensils and their table after they are done.
At first it looks and feels hard, but eventually, we did get use to the tiredness, and lack of sleep!
I was assigned to different hotels. Some of them were:
Ritz Carlton, Riyadh (where i usually work)
Al Nayyara Hotel
Al Khozama Hotel
In Al Nayyara, I have witnessed a Princess' wedding. This was one of the most amazing (in terms of preparation) weddings that I have experienced. The whole ballroom was decorated exquisitely.
This time, i didn't work for the banquet, I assisted one of the Australian photographers whom they hired all the way from Dubai.
During these times, I often see my family. Usually, when they are awake, I am asleep. When they sleep, I am at work. But at the end of the day, all I can say is thanks be to God for these opportunities. He made them happen so that we would be able to catch up with our finances.
xoxo... until next time! thanks for your time!