ABU DHABI With preparations for the Formula One Grand Prix weekend in full swing at the Yas Marina Circuit, a recruitment overdrive for butlers has caught the fancy of many Abu Dhabi residents on the sidelines.
With the capital set to host thousands of tourists during the F1 weekend, November 21-23, recruiting companies and job agents are busy conducting spot interviews for waiters and butlers to shore up the catering staff.
On Monday more than 70 men and women, mostly from the Philippines and India, were seen queuing up at the Binalot restaurant behind Electra Street at around 6pm.
Extra cash
They patiently waited outside as a lady called their names one by one, and took note of their experience and contact numbers.
“We came to know of this interview through a job agent. I am here because I want to make some extra money,” said Janice, a Filipina who works for a coffee shop.
Wilson, another Filipino, said the agent has offered him Dh250 a day.
“I can make Dh750 in just three days. And it is only part time,” said Wilson who works at a restaurant.
Many others to whom XPRESS spoke did not know what the pay would be, but were nonetheless willing to take up the temporary job.
A subcontractor who works for Formula One said there is a significant shortage of catering staff at the venue.
“There will be lot of food and drinks flowing during the three-day event. And we need trained waiters,” said the agent who spoke on condition of anonymity.
He said similar interviews are being conducted across Dubai and Abu Dhabi to fill the vacancies.
The 2014 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit will decide the champion of the season. Fewer than 2,500 tickets remain for the final grand prix of the season, according to organisers.
