My Dubai Nightmare Stories (Finding the right job edition)

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One

My first boss locked me in a room for a whole day. I never bothered to return and collect my salary because of trauma.

Two

My second employer hid my passport so I cannot leave and move to another company. I had to “steal” my own passport.

Three

I prematurely joined a small business as a co-founder. I endured 6 months without a salary. Only got a measly AED273.00 pay after 6 months.

Four and Five

The next 2 employers always delay the salary. It reached 3 months that I had to consult the help of the Ministry of Labor. I got my salary paid. But I got fired. Twice.

Six

I was jobless for the next 7 months, and the recession was looming. I thought of going back to the Philippines.

Seven

After that, a startup company hired me. That time, the culture was great, and I got paid on time. I even received a pay increase after only staying for a year.

Eight

Next, Emirates Airline came calling (for the 3rd time). I joined this top company as an outsourced employee and stayed for 4 years, but never experienced the benefits of a permanent EK staff.

Nine

An emerging local company contacted me and offered a very attractive package compared to Emirates. I experienced substantial growth.

Ten

After 3 years, a multinational company – a global industry leader – offered me a job opportunity with an amazing package and benefits. This was the company I had always dreamed of working for since I graduated.

“Don’t stop dreaming just because you had a nightmare.”

Jill Scott

Don’t let negative experiences define your future.

Having a positive mindset is one. But having a positive mindset rooted in faith is much more important.

Setbacks can teach us lessons and help us grow, and trusting in God’s guidance gives us strength and direction.

If ever you are in a similar situation right now, hang in there. Keep chasing your dreams and trust in God’s plan.

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Ion
Ion
Ion Gonzaga, a.k.a. "Boy Dubai" is a no-nonsense authority blogger and storyteller. He is known to "say things many people cannot say." He's also a UX designer, runner, cyclist, a big fan of basketball.

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