Step-by-Step Guide to Finding a High-Paying Job in Saudi Arabia as an Expat

The first step is understanding where the money is in the Saudi job market. Take some time to research which industries and job roles tend to offer the best salaries for expats. Thanks to Saudi Arabia’s booming economy and ambitious Vision 2030 development plans, certain sectors are especially lucrative. For example, oil & gas, construction, healthcare, IT, finance, and hospitality are all thriving fields that offer promising job prospects for expats . Major government initiatives are driving growth in these areas – in fact, Vision 2030 projects aim to create over a million new jobs by 2030 across various industries​.

Start by identifying a few industries that align with your skills or interests and are known to pay well. If you have specialized training or a degree, you might look at professional roles in engineering, finance, or technology. (For instance, surgeons and other senior doctors, as well as finance managers in large companies, are frequently cited among the top earners in the Kingdom​.) On the other hand, if you're coming from a lower-wage background, focus on sectors where even entry-level jobs can earn above-average pay. Construction projects (like the massive new city developments), healthcare facilities, and the growing tourism/hospitality sector often need a range of workers – from laborers and technicians to support staff – and many of these employers offer competitive wages to attract expat talent.

One thing to keep in mind: Saudi Arabia has a localization program known as Saudization (or Nitaqat), which means certain jobs are reserved for Saudi citizens. For example, roles like cashiers, customer service staff, and some supervisor positions in retail outlets have been designated for Saudis only in recent years. When doing your research, make sure the roles you're aiming for are actually open to expats. (Most job listings will explicitly state if a position is “Saudis only” or if they welcome foreign applicants.) Focusing on the sectors that actively seek expat workers – like those mentioned above – will save you time and effort.

Pro Tip: Look up salary guides or current job postings to get a sense of pay ranges. High-paying roles usually mention benefits like housing allowances or overtime pay. Keep an eye out for those clues. Also, note which qualifications or certifications are commonly required – this will help you in the next step when tailoring your CV.

Once you know the kind of high-paying role you want, it's time to polish your CV (résumé) and make sure it matches what Saudi employers expect. Tailoring your CV for the Saudi job market can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview. Here’s how to do it:

• Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills: Make sure the most important qualifications for the job are prominent on your CV. If the job posting emphasizes specific technical skills or certifications, feature those right at the top of your résumé . Use the same keywords from the job description in your CV – many companies in Saudi use automated systems to scan applications, so including those keywords (e.g. “project management”, “HVAC certification”, etc.) can help your CV get past automated filters.
• Include Personal Details: In Saudi Arabia, it's common (and often expected) to include personal info that you might omit elsewhere. Don’t be surprised – adding your nationality, marital status, and even number of dependents on your CV is normal in KSA​. Employers often view married candidates with families as more stable for long-term employment, so mentioning that can be a slight advantage. Also, including a professional-looking photo on your CV is generally acceptable and even expected in some industries. (Just make sure it’s a formal headshot that aligns with local norms).
• Use the Right Language and Format: Most expat jobs in Saudi Arabia will require an English-language CV, as English is the preferred business language for international positions. However, if you know Arabic or the job listing is in Arabic, it doesn’t hurt to prepare an Arabic version of your CV too (English will still usually be primary). Keep the tone of your CV polite and professional – Saudi business culture tends to be more formal, so ensure your CV isn’t overly casual. Double-check spelling and formatting; a well-organized, error-free CV shows attention to detail.
• Showcase Gulf Experience (If Any): If you’ve worked in Saudi Arabia or elsewhere in the Gulf before, be sure to highlight that experience. Prior regional experience is highly valued because it shows you can adapt to the local work environment. Even if you haven’t, demonstrating a bit of cultural awareness – for example, mentioning you’re familiar with working in multicultural teams or that you understand basic Arabic greetings – can signal that you’re prepared for Saudi workplace norms.

Don’t forget to tailor your cover letter (or the introductory email) for each application as well. Briefly explain why you’re a great fit for that specific role and how your experience meets their needs – this extra effort can set you apart from other candidates. The goal is to make the employer think, “This person really gets what we’re looking for.”

“Networking is crucial” might sound like generic advice, but in Saudi Arabia it truly makes a difference. Many jobs (especially the good ones) are not landed by blindly applying online, but through contacts and word-of-mouth. So, how can you network effectively as an expat?

Start with who you know. Let friends, family, or former colleagues (either in Saudi or even back home) know that you’re job hunting in KSA. They might connect you with someone in your field or tip you off about openings. The expat community in Saudi Arabia is huge and quite supportive – as of recent counts, around 10 million expatriates live in the Kingdom, about one-third of the population. Tapping into this community can uncover leads you wouldn’t find otherwise.

Here are some networking tips:

• Join Expat Groups: Look for social media groups or forums (on Facebook, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, etc.) where expatriates in Saudi Arabia discuss job opportunities. There are often groups dedicated to specific cities (e.g. "Expats in Riyadh") or industries. People often share if they know their company is hiring or if they hear about a new project looking for workers.
• Attend Local Events: If you’re in a larger city like Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam, keep an eye out for job fairs, industry conferences, or community meet-ups. Even if you're a low-wage worker, there might be events like skill workshops or gatherings via your embassy or community organizations that could lead to contacts. Bring a few copies of your CV along, just in case.
• Connect on LinkedIn: LinkedIn is widely used by recruiters and professionals in Saudi Arabia. Update your LinkedIn profile (make it as strong as your CV) and start connecting with people in your target industry. You can even reach out with a polite message to recruiters or managers at companies you're interested in. Sometimes a friendly inquiry can put you on their radar for future openings. Also, follow companies you like – they often post jobs on LinkedIn and other platforms first.
• Leverage Your Current Community: If you’re already in Saudi Arabia working in a lower-paying job, talk to trusted coworkers or friends in the country. They might know of opportunities in other departments or at other companies. Just be discreet and professional about your job search if you're currently employed. Expats from your home country who are already working in KSA can be a big help too – they understand the journey and might guide you on where to look.

Remember, the culture in Saudi workplaces values trust and personal relationships. A recommendation from someone inside a company can carry a lot of weight. Even if you don’t have an established network yet, don’t worry – you can start building one. Networking might feel intimidating, but it can be as simple as having a chat with someone at Friday prayers, striking up a conversation at a coffee shop, or introducing yourself in an online group. Many expats have found their big break through a personal connection, so it’s worth putting yourself out there.

While networking is key, you should also cast a wide net by using online job portals – and thankfully, there are plenty of resources (including Opus) to help you find the right job. In Saudi Arabia, many employers post vacancies on websites and apps where job seekers can apply directly.

Start by signing up on multiple job portals to maximize your reach. Popular sites in the Middle East include Bayt.com, Naukrigulf, GulfTalent, LinkedIn Jobs and others – these platforms list thousands of jobs across all experience levels and industries You’ll find everything from engineering positions in Riyadh to hotel staff roles in Jeddah. Create profiles on these sites and upload your CV so recruiters can find you. Most of these platforms let you set up email alerts for new jobs that match your criteria, which is super handy.

Now, let's talk about Opus. Opus is a new startup job portal with a twist: it focuses on helping you find jobs close to where you live. This is a game-changer for expats who don't want to commute across the city or relocate far away for work. On Opus, you can search for opportunities by location – just enter your area or allow the app to use your location, and it will show you job listings nearby. So if you're living in, say, the Al Malaz district in Riyadh, you can quickly see high-paying job openings in that vicinity. This saves you time and makes your job hunt more localized.

When using any job portal (Opus or others), make sure to:

• Use Filters Smartly: Narrow down results by location, salary range, industry, or job type if the portal allows. For example, filter by city or neighborhood (which Opus makes extremely easy) to find jobs in your immediate area . On most sites you can select “Riyadh” or “Jeddah” as location filters, and some even let you specify a radius (e.g. within 10 km of your postcode).
• Apply Promptly (and Track Your Applications): The job market moves fast. If you see a high-paying job that fits you, try to apply as soon as possible. Some postings get hundreds of applicants, and being early can sometimes get you noticed. Keep a simple spreadsheet or list of jobs you applied for, so you can follow up if needed and avoid mixing them up if a recruiter calls.
• Explore Company Websites & Local Boards: In addition to big job portals, check out the career pages of companies you’re interested in. Many companies in Saudi post jobs only on their own website or on local job boards​. For example, large hospitals, universities, or government-affiliated organizations might list vacancies on their sites. Also, look at local classified websites like Expatriates.com (popular for many expat communities) – you can often find listings for everything from driver jobs to administrative roles there.
• Beware of Scams: As with any online job hunt, be cautious of unsolicited offers or any job ad that asks you to pay money upfront. Legitimate employers in Saudi Arabia will never ask you to pay for a visa or "processing fee" before hiring. Stick to reputable platforms like Opus or the well-known job sites, and if something feels off, trust your gut and double-check the company’s existence.

By combining networking (from Step 3) with diligent online searching on platforms like Opus, you’re covering both the personal and the digital fronts of job hunting. This dual approach will significantly increase your chances of finding a high-paying gig.

One often overlooked factor in job hunting is location. Saudi Arabia is a big country with several major cities and sprawling suburbs. For expats, the location of your job can greatly impact your daily life. A high salary is great, but if the job is on the other side of Riyadh and you spend four hours a day commuting, it might not be worth it. This is why Opus’s mission of finding jobs close to where you live is so important.

Consider this: public transportation is limited in many Saudi cities, and not everyone has easy access to a car. In Riyadh, for example, until the new metro is fully operational, most people rely on cars or company-provided shuttles. Expats who don’t drive often have to hire drivers or depend on taxis, which can get expensive and exhausting over time. If your workplace is near your home, you save not only money on transport but also precious time and energy every single day.

Here’s how to prioritize location in your job search:

• Use Location Filters or Map Search: As mentioned, use Opus (or any job site's filters) to narrow jobs by proximity. On Opus, you might even see job postings on a map relative to your location. This quickly shows you which opportunities are within a convenient distance. If you're using other sites, at least set the city or region filter to avoid listings far outside your area.
• Consider Secondary Cities: While Riyadh and Jeddah have the most job listings, don’t ignore other locales if you’re open to them or already nearby. Places like Dammam/Khobar (Eastern Province), NEOM (the new mega-city project in the northwest), Medina, or Abha might have high-paying jobs with less competition. A role in a smaller city can sometimes offer a lower cost of living or additional benefits (companies may pay more to attract talent outside the major hubs).
• Ask About Location & Commute Details: When you get to the interview stage, it’s okay to politely ask whereexactly the office or worksite is, if not clear, and what the typical working hours are. This will give you an idea of commuting traffic patterns. Some employers (especially those located in industrial areas or remote sites) provide transportation for staff or have housing near the worksite. Knowing this can help you evaluate the job offer beyond just salary.
• Weigh Relocation vs. Commuting: If you do find a stellar opportunity that isn’t near your current home, consider the trade-offs. Would you be willing to move closer? (Some employers offer relocation assistance or temporary housing.) Or, if moving isn’t an option, think about the commute and whether the salary truly compensates for that daily grind. Sometimes, a job slightly closer with a bit less pay might provide a better quality of life than a higher-paying job with a brutal commute.

By focusing on location, you ensure that when you land that high-paying job, you can actually enjoy the benefits (like having time to spend your higher income on family or hobbies) instead of burning out from a long daily journey. Opus was created with this in mind – to make it easy for job seekers to find good jobs right in their community.

Congrats – if you’ve made it to this step, you’re starting to get interview calls for those jobs you applied to! Now it’s all about sealing the deal. Interview preparation in Saudi Arabia is similar to elsewhere, but there are a few local nuances to keep in mind.

First, make sure you research the company before the interview. Be ready to talk about why you want to work for them specifically, and how you can contribute to their goals. Saudi employers love candidates who show genuine interest and knowledge about the organization; it signals commitment. Whether it's a big hospital in Jeddah or a tech startup in Riyadh, do a quick read on their website or any recent news about them.

Next, understand that Saudi work culture tends to be on the formal side. Respect and courtesy go a long way. Address interviewers politely (use “Mr.” or “Ms.” with their name, unless they invite you to use first names). Usually, a handshake is fine – though note that some conservative individuals might not shake hands with the opposite gender, so don’t take it personally if a nod is offered instead. Be punctual, but also patient; meetings might not start exactly on time due to prayer breaks or other delays.

During the interview, highlight your adaptability and cultural awareness. Companies will want to know that you can fit into their team, which may include Saudi nationals and other expats. You might get questions like “Have you worked in multicultural teams?” or “How do you handle working in a new country?” Have a couple of examples ready to show you’re flexible and respectful of local customs. For example, you can mention you're aware that business hours may pause for prayer times, or that you understand the importance of Ramadan to colleagues. Demonstrating this awareness can set you apart as someone who will integrate well. (If you’ve worked in the region before, definitely bring that up as a strength.)

Also, be prepared to discuss salary expectations confidently yet tactfully. Since you’re aiming for a high-paying job, you likely have a target number in mind. It’s wise to research typical salaries for the role so you have a realistic range. In Saudi Arabia, many positions (especially for expats) come with added benefits like housing allowance, transport, medical insurance, annual flights home, etc. Keep these in mind when negotiating. Sometimes a slightly lower base salary is still a great deal if the allowances cover a big chunk of your expenses. Know your bottom line, but also show that you’re flexible and interested in the overall package.

Quick interview tips:

• Dress Professionally: Appearances matter. Wear formal business attire to interviews (a suit or at least a dress shirt and trousers for men; a conservative business suit or dress for women). Even if the work environment is in a dusty construction site later, first impressions for the interview should be polished.
• Bring Documents: Have extra copies of your CV, a list of references, and any relevant certificates (education, training, etc.). Employers might not ask for them initially, but it shows preparedness. If you're interviewed remotely (e.g., via Zoom from overseas), have digital copies ready to send.
• Show Enthusiasm: Express your excitement about the role and working in Saudi Arabia. Employers here like to see that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you specifically value their opportunity. A positive attitude can leave a lasting impression.
• Follow Up: After the interview, send a brief thank-you email to the interviewer (if you have their contact info). It’s a courteous touch that can help keep you on their radar. Reiterate your interest in the role and that you’re available if they need any additional information.

Finally, make sure you understand the next steps in the hiring process. In Saudi Arabia, once you get an offer, there will be paperwork for your work visa (if you’re not already on one). High-paying jobs will usually come with a proper work visa (iqama). If you’re already in KSA, your new employer will transfer your sponsorship; if you’re abroad, they’ll guide you through obtaining a work visa. Be ready with your documents (passport copies, transcripts, etc.) and be patient – sometimes the process takes a few weeks. It’s worth it!

Landing a high-paying job in Saudi Arabia as an expat is absolutely within your reach, no matter your skill level, if you approach it step by step. To recap, start by targeting the right industries and roles, then make sure your CV and skills are presented in a way that meets local expectations. Mix networking and online job hunting on platforms like Opus to uncover opportunities, and always keep location in mind so you find a job that’s not just good for your wallet, but also good for your daily life. Finally, bring it home by acing the interview and showing employers that you’re the right fit.

Saudi Arabia is an exciting place to work – the economy is growing, new projects are launching, and companies are eager to hire people who are ready to contribute. Expats are a huge part of this growth story, and you could be next. In fact, the combination of a lower cost of living in Saudi Arabia and much higher wages means expats can save a lot of money while still enjoying a high quality of life. With a strong job market and tax-free income, a stint in KSA can be a fantastic boost to your career and your savings.

So, update that CV, fire up Opus to see what high-paying jobs are available near you, and take that leap. Your next great opportunity might be just around the corner (literally and figuratively!). Good luck, and bil-tawfiq – wishing you success on your job search journey in Saudi Arabia!

Sources:

• Oriel Partners – Living & Working in Saudi Arabia (2025)​ orielpartners.co.uk​orielpartners.co.uk​orielpartners.co.uk
• Argaam – Saudi Arabia’s Workforce Statistics, Q3 2024 ​argaam.com
• Qureos – Top In-Demand Jobs in KSA (2025) ​qureos.com​qureos.com; How to Find Jobs in Saudi Arabia (2025) ​qureos.com​qureos.com​qureos.com
• Jobera – Saudi Arabia CV Writing Guide ​jobera.com​jobera.com​jobera.com​jobera.com
• GoinGlobal – CV Writing Tips for Saudi Arabia ​blog.goinglobal.com
• ExpatArrivals – Getting Around in Riyadh​ expatarrivals.com​expatarrivals.com
• Global Payroll Assoc. – Saudization Policy and Expats ​gpa.net
• ArabMLS – Highest Paying Jobs in Saudi Arabia​ arabmls.org
• Statista/Roowaad – Expatriates in Saudi Arabia Statistics ​roowaad.com