I signed a contract through Ocean Armada and paid a placement fee. They did not deceive me, and the staff appeared to know their work and act honestly. They paid my salary on time, although it was below the average level. However, I strongly advise against joining Jawar Al Khaleej, where I experienced a very dismissive and indifferent attitude toward seafarers.
I applied through Ocean Armada for an offshore tug position in the Persian Gulf. I completed an online interview, for which they asked me to pay a placement commission. The salary they offered was not attractive, so I declined the position.
I worked through Ocean Armada on an offshore assignment. A placement fee was required, but I was not deceived and everything happened as agreed. The salary was only symbolic, so this may be suitable as a starting point, but I would look for something better afterward.
I contacted Ocean Armada, and they openly stated that they recruit crew for sanctioned vessels.
I want to warn all sailors not to get involved with this crewing agency. They take no responsibility at all. They personally pay the crew's salaries, and it's not the amount stated in the contract. The salaries are very low, and delays and non-payments are regular. You will have to wait at least two to three months to complete your contract.
I had a very negative experience with Ocean Armada. They offered me a job with MUTAWA MARINE, but I had to pay $1500 upfront. They also withheld 10% of my salary for the first three months, promising to return it after two years if I stayed with them. The contract was presented to me without the owner's signature, and I was assured that everything would be fine once I reached Abu Dhabi. However, I found out that the ship's contract was ending, and I was sent home after just over a month of work. I asked Ella from Ocean Armada to help me find another job or at least refund part of my fee, but she disappeared and blocked my number. I later saw a job posting for the same position, but they never contacted me. I wouldn't recommend this agency; they seem more interested in taking money from sailors than providing support.