Saudi Arabia has become one of the leading destinations for skilled workers seeking international job opportunities with attractive salary packages and visa sponsorship.
The country is experiencing rapid economic diversification through its Saudi Vision 2030 program, which has opened doors for foreign workers in industries such as oil and gas, healthcare, construction, information technology, and manufacturing.
With massive infrastructure projects, increasing demand for specialized expertise, and a government-backed commitment to attract global talent, the kingdom continues to welcome thousands of skilled professionals every year.
For immigrants, the prospect of working in Saudi Arabia is not just about securing employment, but also about benefiting from tax-free income, employer-provided housing, healthcare support, and in most cases, full visa sponsorship.
The demand for foreign workers is especially high in regions like Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and the Eastern Province, where mega projects such as NEOM City, Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya are being developed.
Figures from the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources indicate that in 2024 alone, more than 11 million expatriates were employed in different skilled sectors, with over 70 percent receiving full visa sponsorship from their employers.
Average salaries for skilled workers in Saudi Arabia are often higher compared to other Middle Eastern countries, ranging between SAR 8,000 ($2,133) to SAR 22,000 ($5,866) monthly depending on industry and job type.
For international applicants considering Saudi Arabia as a career destination, the opportunity lies not only in financial rewards but also in career growth, cultural exposure, and long-term residency pathways.
Companies in the kingdom are consistently on the lookout for foreign expertise that can contribute to their expanding workforce and ongoing development initiatives.
In this guide, we will examine the requirements, salary expectations, visa types, companies, and resources that can help you secure a high-paying skilled worker job in Saudi Arabia with visa sponsorship in 2025.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
To qualify for skilled worker jobs in Saudi Arabia, applicants must demonstrate both educational background and practical experience in their chosen fields. While entry-level positions exist, employers generally prefer candidates who have a minimum of 2 to 5 years of professional experience along with technical or vocational certifications.
For instance, in the construction and engineering sectors, workers are often required to hold qualifications in mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering fields.
Similarly, in healthcare, professionals must have internationally recognized licenses such as USMLE, GMC, or DHA certifications, depending on their area of practice. IT professionals are expected to have strong programming knowledge, cloud computing certifications, and cybersecurity expertise.
Some of the most in-demand skills for Saudi Arabia include:
- Electrical and mechanical engineering skills
- Welding, pipefitting, and crane operation certifications
- Healthcare and nursing qualifications
- IT certifications in cybersecurity, AI, and software development
- Project management and leadership experience
Many Saudi employers provide in-house training, but preference is given to workers who already possess industry-standard credentials. For entry-level roles, technical workers may earn between SAR 6,000 to SAR 10,000 per month ($1,600 to $2,666), while more experienced professionals can easily command salaries that exceed SAR 20,000 ($5,333) monthly.
It is also important to note that proficiency in English is often mandatory, especially for multinational companies, while knowledge of Arabic can be an added advantage for better integration into the workplace and community.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
Saudi Arabia’s wage levels vary significantly depending on the region, type of industry, and scale of projects. The capital city Riyadh offers the highest-paying opportunities across multiple industries, especially in IT, finance, and healthcare.
Average salaries for skilled workers in Riyadh range between SAR 12,000 ($3,200) to SAR 25,000 ($6,666) per month due to the concentration of multinational companies and government ministries.
Jeddah, the kingdom’s commercial hub, is another top-paying region, particularly in logistics, shipping, and manufacturing. Skilled professionals in Jeddah typically earn between SAR 10,000 ($2,666) to SAR 20,000 ($5,333) per month, making it a popular destination for expatriates.
The Eastern Province, including Dammam and Al Khobar, is the heart of the oil and gas industry, home to companies like Saudi Aramco. Workers in this region benefit from premium wages, often above SAR 22,000 ($5,866) monthly, especially for technical and engineering positions related to petroleum exploration and refining.
On the other hand, regions like Makkah and Madinah, while not traditionally known for corporate industries, are experiencing a surge in construction and hospitality projects due to religious tourism, creating a growing demand for skilled labor. Salaries here may range between SAR 8,000 to SAR 15,000 ($2,133 to $4,000) per month, depending on the employer.
For high-level professionals such as doctors, IT managers, and senior engineers, salaries can exceed SAR 30,000 ($8,000) monthly, particularly in private hospitals, multinational firms, and government-backed projects.
Clearly, the most lucrative regions for skilled workers in Saudi Arabia remain Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Eastern Province, where the combination of high demand, foreign investment, and mega-project developments ensures competitive pay packages.
Salary Expectations for Skilled Workers in Saudi Arabia
Understanding salary structures is essential for foreign job seekers aiming to work in Saudi Arabia. Skilled worker salaries are influenced by factors such as experience, industry, and qualifications. On average, expatriates in skilled positions earn significantly more than local employees due to the shortage of specialized labor.
For example, a mid-level civil engineer earns approximately SAR 14,000 ($3,733) monthly, while senior engineers can make up to SAR 25,000 ($6,666) per month.
IT specialists earn between SAR 12,000 to SAR 20,000 ($3,200 to $5,333), depending on their area of expertise. In healthcare, doctors and consultants earn among the highest salaries, ranging from SAR 20,000 ($5,333) to SAR 40,000 ($10,666) monthly.
Below are some average salary figures for skilled workers in Saudi Arabia in 2025:
- Civil Engineers: SAR 12,000 – SAR 22,000 ($3,200 – $5,866)
- Mechanical Engineers: SAR 13,000 – SAR 24,000 ($3,466 – $6,400)
- IT Specialists: SAR 12,000 – SAR 20,000 ($3,200 – $5,333)
- Doctors and Consultants: SAR 20,000 – SAR 40,000 ($5,333 – $10,666)
- Nurses: SAR 8,000 – SAR 14,000 ($2,133 – $3,733)
- Skilled Technicians (Welders, Electricians): SAR 6,000 – SAR 12,000 ($1,600 – $3,200)
It is also worth noting that many Saudi employers provide additional benefits such as free accommodation, yearly airfare, transportation allowances, and family visa sponsorship. When these benefits are added, the overall compensation package becomes far more attractive compared to base salary figures.
For instance, a construction worker earning SAR 10,000 ($2,666) monthly may receive an additional SAR 3,000 to SAR 5,000 ($800 to $1,333) worth of housing and transportation allowances. This means the real value of employment in Saudi Arabia is often 20 to 30 percent higher than the listed salary.
Visa Types and Options for Skilled Workers in Saudi Arabia
One of the most important considerations for foreign professionals planning to work in Saudi Arabia is the type of visa required to secure employment. The government has streamlined its immigration policies over the last decade, making it easier for employers to sponsor international workers.
The most common visa for expatriates is the Iqama (residency permit), which is directly tied to the worker’s employment contract and employer sponsorship.
There are multiple visa types that skilled workers can apply for depending on the nature of the job and length of contract:
- Employment Visa: This is the standard visa for most skilled workers. It is issued based on a confirmed job offer from a Saudi employer, and it requires prior approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Once the worker arrives in Saudi Arabia, the employment visa is converted into an Iqama.
- Work Visit Visa: Typically issued for short-term projects, consultancy work, or temporary technical assistance. This visa is valid for up to 90 days but can sometimes be extended. It does not allow for long-term residency.
- Business Visa: While not directly an employment visa, many foreign professionals enter Saudi Arabia on business visas for negotiations or contract signing before transitioning to an employment visa.
- Family Visa Sponsorship: For skilled workers in senior roles, employers often provide dependent visas for spouses and children, allowing families to relocate together.
The cost of obtaining a Saudi employment visa is usually covered by the employer. On average, visa sponsorship costs range from SAR 3,000 to SAR 7,000 ($800 to $1,866) per worker, including medical tests, government processing, and documentation fees. This is why Saudi employers prefer to hire workers they are confident will fulfill their contracts.
Applicants should also be aware that the Saudi government requires a medical fitness certificate before granting work visas. Common screenings include blood tests, chest X-rays, and checks for infectious diseases.
Additionally, professional workers in healthcare, IT, and engineering may need to submit authenticated educational certificates to ensure their qualifications are valid under Saudi labor laws.
The advantage of Saudi Arabia’s visa sponsorship system is that it guarantees job security, as only licensed employers can bring in foreign workers.
Furthermore, the Iqama system ensures that expatriates enjoy access to healthcare, banking services, and legal protection during their stay in the kingdom.
How to Secure Construction Skilled Worker Jobs in Saudi Arabia
The construction sector in Saudi Arabia is one of the largest employers of foreign skilled labor due to the country’s heavy investment in mega projects.
From the futuristic NEOM City project worth over $500 billion, to the Red Sea Tourism Development Project valued at $10 billion, demand for skilled workers in civil engineering, welding, scaffolding, plumbing, electrical systems, and heavy equipment operation is at an all-time high.
To secure a construction job in Saudi Arabia with visa sponsorship, applicants must follow a structured approach:
- Obtain the Required Skills: Workers in construction are expected to hold trade certifications or diplomas in areas such as electrical wiring, welding, pipefitting, and project management. International certifications like OSHA safety training or NEBOSH can give applicants a competitive edge.
- Apply Through Authorized Recruitment Agencies: Saudi employers often hire through licensed recruitment firms that handle the visa process and contract verification. In countries like India, Pakistan, and the Philippines, recruitment agencies directly coordinate with Saudi companies to fill labor shortages.
- Research Companies Running Mega Projects: Firms like Saudi Binladin Group, Bechtel, Al Rajhi Construction, and AlFanar are heavily involved in billion-dollar infrastructure works. Skilled workers who target these companies increase their chances of securing lucrative contracts.
- Negotiate for Full Sponsorship Packages: When securing a contract, make sure the employer covers not only the visa but also accommodation, transportation, and medical insurance. This can save up to SAR 30,000 ($8,000) annually in expenses.
- Prepare for Safety and Technical Tests: Many Saudi employers conduct skill assessments before finalizing contracts. Welders, electricians, and crane operators may be required to perform live demonstrations of their skills.
Salary expectations for construction skilled workers are competitive. For example, electricians and welders earn between SAR 7,000 to SAR 12,000 ($1,866 to $3,200) per month, while civil engineers earn between SAR 14,000 to SAR 25,000 ($3,733 to $6,666).
Senior project managers can earn above SAR 30,000 ($8,000) monthly, making construction one of the highest-paying industries for expatriates in the kingdom.
Companies Hiring Skilled Workers in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is home to some of the largest companies in the Middle East, many of which are actively recruiting foreign skilled workers to sustain their growth. For international applicants, targeting well-known employers increases the chances of securing both competitive salaries and visa sponsorship.
Some of the most prominent companies currently hiring skilled workers include:
- Saudi Aramco: The world’s largest oil company, employing over 70,000 workers, regularly recruits engineers, technicians, IT specialists, and safety officers. Average salaries for skilled workers range between SAR 15,000 ($4,000) and SAR 28,000 ($7,466) monthly.
- SABIC (Saudi Basic Industries Corporation): One of the largest chemical manufacturers globally, offering opportunities in process engineering, chemical research, and industrial maintenance. Salaries typically range from SAR 12,000 to SAR 25,000 ($3,200 to $6,666).
- Saudi Binladin Group: A major construction company handling large-scale infrastructure projects. Skilled workers such as crane operators, civil engineers, and electricians are in high demand, with salaries between SAR 8,000 and SAR 20,000 ($2,133 to $5,333).
- Almarai: The largest dairy company in the Middle East, employing skilled workers in food technology, quality assurance, and industrial mechanics.
- Saudi Airlines (Saudia): Recruiting skilled workers in aviation engineering, maintenance, and customer operations. Technical engineers can earn SAR 18,000 ($4,800) or more monthly.
- Bechtel Saudi Arabia: A U.S.-based construction giant managing several mega projects in the kingdom, offering some of the best international salaries for skilled professionals.
Foreign workers also find opportunities in healthcare through major hospitals like King Faisal Specialist Hospital and King Abdulaziz Medical City, where doctors, nurses, and lab technicians are among the most recruited categories.
Employment Websites to Find Skilled Worker Jobs in Saudi Arabia
The job search process for skilled workers in Saudi Arabia is increasingly shifting online, with many companies posting vacancies directly on recruitment websites. For expatriates seeking visa-sponsored roles, using verified platforms is crucial to avoid fraudulent job offers.
Some of the top employment websites to secure Saudi jobs include:
- Bayt: One of the largest job portals in the Middle East, offering thousands of postings in engineering, IT, healthcare, and finance.
- GulfTalent: Specializes in professional and executive-level jobs, with detailed salary comparisons for Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries.
- Naukri Gulf: Popular among applicants from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, particularly for construction and engineering roles.
- Expatriates: A classifieds site used by employers in Saudi Arabia to advertise immediate job vacancies.
- LinkedIn: Many Saudi companies, including Aramco and SABIC, post job openings directly on LinkedIn, where candidates can apply globally.
- Ministry of Human Resources & Social Development (MHRSD) Portal: The official Saudi government site for labor market regulations and job postings.
When applying online, job seekers should ensure that the offer explicitly mentions visa sponsorship, accommodation, and benefits. Employers who provide genuine visa sponsorship usually include details of the employment package upfront.
It is also advisable for applicants to verify companies through the Saudi Chamber of Commerce to confirm legitimacy before signing contracts. This extra step helps avoid recruitment scams, which unfortunately still target inexperienced foreign workers.