Would you like to be part of a project that unearths fossils from 80 million years ago? Or a first-of-its-kind desalination plant powered by 100% renewable energy? How about a sustainable golf course designed by legendary pro Jack Nicklaus?
These are just a few of the more than 5,200 construction projects underway in Saudi Arabia.
Construction projects in Saudi include contracts in the commercial, residential, industrial, energy and infrastructure sectors. If you are looking for construction jobs internationally, you should look here first.
Learn more about the construction industry in Saudi Arabia and how to find your perfect job.
Working in the construction industry in Saudi Arabia
Construction jobs are plentiful in Saudi Arabia. However, the opportunities for foreigners are not entry-level construction jobs.
The Saudi government's Saudization (expatriation) policy limits the number of construction jobs open to foreigners. Restrictions on hiring foreign workers are stricter for low-skilled, entry-level jobs.
Employers can more easily obtain work visas for highly skilled workers. Employers may argue that they could not find Saudi workers with sufficient training and experience.
For this reason, the types of construction jobs in Saudi Arabia are usually at higher positions. Openings may include:
Commercial Manager
Planning Manager
Program Operations Specialist
Project Director
Project Manager
Although there are fewer jobs open to foreign workers than in the past, you can still find many great opportunities.
Construction Jobs in Saudi Arabia
Generally, you will find some excellent opportunities for construction jobs in Riyadh. Jeddah is another city with a strong job market for construction workers. Significant investment in construction projects by the Saudi government is increasing the demand for construction workers.
Vision 2030 is the key driver of this development. The Vision 2030 initiative aims to:
Promotion of economic and investment activities.
Increase non-oil international trade.
Promote a more welcoming image of the Kingdom.
The Saudi government created the Public Investment Fund as part of Vision 2030. The fund is financing a number of large-scale, complex, multi-purpose construction projects. These "Giga Projects" include:
NEOM
Red Sea Project
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Vision 2030 projects will also require the construction of roads and other infrastructure. Those jobs are in addition to jobs directly related to each project.
NEOM
NEOM is a large city that the Saudi government is building on the coast of the Red Sea. The site covers 26,500 square kilometers in Tabuk province. The Smart City will be home to millions of residents and a major tourist destination.
The NEOM project focuses on sustainability, technology and innovation. Because of its size and scope, several types of construction managers are necessary. Jobs are available in sectors including geothermal energy, water, transportation, and general infrastructure.
Red Sea Project
The Red Sea Project is a luxury eco-tourism project on the shores of the Red Sea. It will cover 28,000 square kilometers in Tabuk province.
The project is progressing in several phases. The new international airport is scheduled to open in 2022, and 16 hotels will be completed by the end of 2023.
Types of open positions include Senior Surveyor, Construction Manager, and Planning Manager.
Qiddiya
Qadia is an entertainment mega project located 45 km from central Riyadh. It will have 223 sq km of developed area in an area of ​​367 sq km. Qadia is one of the construction works in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Recreation, sports and arts facilities in Qadia will include:
Six flags
Water theme park
Golf Field
Aquatic Centre
Stadium
Performing Arts Center
Multiplex cinema
Construction jobs in Qiddiya are currently carried out exclusively by project contractors. Construction professionals will continue to be needed, however, as the project progresses.
Getting a Residence Permit and Work Visa for Saudi Arabia
To work legally in Saudi Arabia, you need a residence permit (iqama) that allows you to work. The first step after finding construction work is to apply for an employment visa.
You can apply for a visa online, by mail, or in person at the Saudi Embassy. You can also apply through an authorized travel agency.
Sponsorship Letter and Employment Contract
Your employer must first have permission from the Saudi Ministry of Labor to hire foreign workers. Your employer should then write a sponsorship letter for you.
You need to submit a copy of your employment contract. You and the sponsoring employer need to sign the agreement.
Certification from Saudi Chamber of Commerce and Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required for sponsorship letter and employment contract.
Proof of Education
You need to submit a certified and notarized copy of your university degree/diploma. The Cultural Mission of Saudi Arabia must verify your diploma.
Other Documents
A visa application requires various other documents, including:
Digital power of attorney from your employer
Visa referral note from Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Medical report from a licensed physician
The police do not report six months before the date of application.
Your passport must have at least six months of validity left on it. It also requires at least two consecutive blank visa pages.
Getting the Residence Permit
Within 90 days of your arrival in Saudi Arabia, your employer must apply for a residence permit. Iqama includes your work permit. It serves as the standard form of identification in Saudi Arabia.
Residence permits are valid for one or two years, depending on your employment contract. If you continue to work in Saudi after the first permit expires, your employer must renew your permit.
Why Look for Construction Jobs in Saudi?
Construction work in Saudi Arabia can be personally and financially rewarding. Vision 2030's plans are incredibly ambitious. They are career-defining projects that will leave a lasting legacy.
The standard of living in Saudi Arabia is high. The country has a good healthcare system and quality schools. You have many shopping and dining options.
Saudi has world famous places and beautiful beaches. You are only a short drive from the Middle East, Africa and the rest of Asia.
Having international experience on your CV demonstrates your ability to adapt and succeed in a global environment. Working in Saudi Arabia can bring career and personal benefits.
Finding Construction Jobs in Saudi Arabia
Construction jobs in Saudi Arabia are available for foreigners. Projects large and small need experienced leaders in a variety of roles. The experience will boost your career and also provide you with a unique personal opportunity.
SSA Group can help you find the right construction job. Our recruitment experts have been placing top candidates in quality positions for over 30 years. Contact us today and take the next step in your career.