GP Journeys: From Abu Dhabi to Coffs Harbour

Dr Rabeea Saeed and her family have recently relocated from the bustling major city of Abu Dhabi to the scenic coastal town of Coffs Harbour in NSW, following Dr Rabeea’s passion for family medicine and interest in working and studying internationally.

After completing her MBBS in Pakistan, Dr Rabeea moved to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2016, where she worked in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and then went on to pursue her fellowship in the UK. However, after her husband Malik received approval for the 491 regional visa, the family set their sights on Australia.

This led to Dr Rabeea being referred to the DXC Medical team by Emergency Focus, and she connected with Karen Bowden from DXC Medical who has helped guide her through the process of applying for the PEP Specialist Stream.

Karen worked closely with Dr Rabeea, supporting her in every step of the transition, from securing her AHPRA registration to navigating visa challenges. "Karen really made this transition very, very easy for me," says Dr Rabeea, reflecting on her experience with the team.

Her application process involved rigorous requirements, including passing the OET speaking test, which Dr Rabeea successfully completed after a couple of attempts and encouragement from her DXC Medical contact. "I was so excited to tell Karen that I got my required score,” she recalls.

In July 2024, Dr Rabeea and her family moved to Coffs Harbour, where they have quickly settled into their new life. With Karen’s support, the family found a home, arranged schooling for their children, and began to explore the area. She is currently working at Bawrunga Aboriginal Medical Service in Macksville, just a short drive from Coffs Harbour. “The team here is incredibly supportive, from the administration to my medical colleagues,” says Dr Rabeea.

Living in Coffs Harbour, a regional area that aligned with the requirements of their 491 visa, has been a positive experience for the family. Dr Rabeea finds the natural beauty of the area, along with its excellent schools and medical facilities, a perfect fit for her family of five. On weekends, they enjoy visiting local beaches, exploring attractions like the Big Banana, and attending the vibrant Sunday markets.

As Dr Rabeea continues her work with the Aboriginal Medical Service, she is also working towards her fellowship with RACGP. "I’ve completed my induction interview and am now preparing for the second phase, including case-based analysis," she explains.

With a clear focus on achieving her professional goals, Dr Rabeea is looking forward to a bright future in family medicine.

For her husband Malik, the move has also opened up new possibilities. He is exploring business opportunities in Coffs Harbour, particularly in the medical equipment sector, and plans to balance work with supporting their three sons. “He’s looking for something with flexibility for our family, and there are so many opportunities here,” said Dr Rabeea.

Dr Rabeea is grateful for the support she’s received from the DXC Medical team, who have guided her through the process and taking any confusion out of what can be a complex system to navigate.

"I really want to thank Karen and the entire DXC team for their unwavering support, I don’t think it would have happened without their help" she says.

We wish Dr Rabeea, Malik, and their three sons all the best in their new life in Australia. If you’re considering a GP role in regional Australia, explore our Vacancy Map and Search Jobs functions to find the perfect fit for your career and lifestyle.

For more information on anything included in this blog, please contact:

Darren Compton

0405 234 852

darren.compton@dxcmedical.com.au