Saudi Arabia presents a compelling destination for British citizens seeking career opportunities abroad. With approximately 26,000 British expatriates already residing in the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia has a dynamic job market, particularly for those working in the fields of engineering, IT, healthcare, admin and finance.
The country is currently working to establish itself as a global leader under Vision 2030, and expats are in high demand across a range of industries to help meet ambitious project targets. Expats who do choose to move to Saudi Arabia can benefit from competitive salaries, tax-free income and a 30% lower cost of living compared to the UK.
What Are the Best Jobs in Saudi Arabia for Expats?
1. Personal Assistants and Executive Assistants
Experienced PAs and EAs are in strong demand in Saudi Arabia, particularly within large corporations and high-net-worth private offices. PAs and EAs in Saudi Arabia manage complex schedules, arrange frequent international travel, prepare reports and presentations, and coordinate meetings with high-level executives.
British expats with expertise in providing this kind of executive support are sought after for these positions in a variety of sectors, including energy, healthcare, finance and technology.
In terms of earning potential, an executive assistant at a leading energy firm in Saudi Arabia may earn a tax-free salary somewhere in the range of £50,000 to £90,000, dependent on experience and the sector. In addition to this, they can expect a competitive bonus and attractive benefits, including relocation packages, accommodation allowances and private healthcare.
We have supported many UK expats to make a successful transition to a PA and EA position in Saudi Arabia. If you are interested in relocating to Saudi Arabia and have relevant experience, you can browse our current PA and EA jobs in Saudi Arabia here.
2. Healthcare Professionals
With a growing economy, healthcare is undoubtedly one of the largest sectors employing British expats in Saudi Arabia, and doctors, nurses and medical technicians are in high demand.
With Saudi Arabia’s healthcare infrastructure rapidly growing, there is a skills shortage and a need for skilled professionals to meet the needs of its expanding population. This is especially true for specialised roles such as surgeons and paediatricians. As of 2025, the healthcare sector is one of the top sources of employment for expats in the Kingdom.
3. Project Management
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in infrastructure projects that align with the nation’s Vision 2030 goals. As such, project management roles are increasingly sought after. British expats with experience in construction, civil engineering and project coordination are well-positioned to find a role in this field.
Common projects include luxury residential developments, expanded transport networks and commercial real estate, which are central to Saudi Arabia’s growth and modernisation strategy. With average salaries that regularly exceed those offered in Europe, these roles are highly attractive for qualified project management expats.
4. Software Developers
Saudi Arabia is also committed to digital transformation. And so the demand for software developers has surged. British expats skilled in software engineering, data science, data analysis and cybersecurity are also highly desired, particularly as the Kingdom has shifted its focus to building smart cities and world-class digital infrastructure.
Software development positions offer competitive salaries and the opportunity to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s technological advancement.
5. Education and Teaching Roles
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in education as part of Vision 2030, and the demand for expatriate teachers is high.
English language teachers are particularly sought after as English proficiency is central to the Kingdom's goal of globalising its workforce. Alongside ESL instructors, there is a strong demand for qualified K-12 teachers and subject specialists, particularly in STEM fields.
The salaries for teachers are competitive, with the average salary equating to around £2,700 per month (tax-free). Alongside that, teachers can expect benefits such as housing allowances, medical insurance and visa sponsorship, which make teaching in Saudi Arabia financially attractive.
With the expansion of international schools, including several new schools opening in Riyadh alone, there are ample opportunities for educators to pursue a rewarding career in the Kingdom's rapidly developing education sector.
6. Engineering
Saudi Arabia’s engineering sector offers excellent opportunities for qualified expats. With Saudi Arabia focusing on diversification away from oil, the Kingdom hopes to attract experienced professionals in areas such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering and electrical engineering.
Expats with experience in these fields will find numerous job openings with companies that are expanding and investing in new technologies and infrastructure.
7. Digital Marketing & Social Media Roles
With Saudi Arabia’s increasing focus on modernisation, digital marketing and social media roles are in high demand. British expats skilled in digital marketing, content creation and social media strategy play an important part in companies seeking to grow their online presence.
As the Kingdom seeks to improve its global image and attract international tourists and investors, the need for these roles continues to rise.
8. Finance and Banking
With Saudi Arabia's economy shifting towards diversification, the finance and banking sectors are booming. Positions such as financial analysts, accountants and investment managers are in high demand.
The Kingdom is strengthening its financial infrastructure and integrating with global markets. Professionals with expertise in corporate finance, investment banking and financial technology (FinTech) are well-placed to find suitable roles. Expats with a background in these areas will find plenty of opportunities to work with major financial institutions, investment firms and multinational corporations.
9. Hospitality and Tourism
Saudi Arabia is working to expand its tourism industry with the aim of increasing the number of annual international visitors. This new focus has led to a growing demand for professionals in hospitality and tourism management. Vacancies for hotel managers, event planners, tourism marketing professionals and cultural advisors are now more prevalent.
As the Kingdom invests in developing luxury resorts, entertainment venues and cultural landmarks, there is ample opportunity for British expats with expertise in hospitality to contribute to this burgeoning sector.
Why Saudi Arabia is a Top Destination for Expats
1. Competitive Salaries and Tax-Free Income
Saudi Arabia offers highly competitive salaries, especially for skilled professionals. One of the most attractive features of working in the Kingdom is the absence of personal income tax, allowing expats to keep more of their earnings compared to the UK.
Salaries are often higher than equivalent roles in Europe and the US, which can make it an appealing place to relocate for those looking to grow their personal finances.
2. Lower Cost of Living
The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is generally lower than in the UK. Rent, utilities and food costs are all significantly more affordable, with rental expenses approximately 60% lower than in cities like London.
This provides expats with the opportunity to live more comfortably while still enjoying a high-quality lifestyle. Many expat jobs contribute to this lower cost of living by offering accommodation allowances, further easing the financial transition to life in Saudi Arabia.
3. High Quality of Life
Saudi Arabia boasts world-class infrastructure, modern housing and excellent healthcare facilities. Expats enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, with access to very good international schools and well-established expat communities.
These communities offer valuable support to newcomers, helping them to adapt quickly to life in Saudi Arabia and, importantly, build new support networks.
4. Growing Economy
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative is driving massive economic growth and development, creating abundant opportunities for Saudi nationals and expats. As the country diversifies its economy and moves away from oil dependency, the demand for skilled foreign workers continues to rise. Expats moving to Saudi Arabia are well-positioned to be part of this transformative period, gaining valuable international experience and being at the forefront of exciting change.
If you are considering relocating to Saudi Arabia and would like to know more about what it’s like to live and work in Saudi Arabia as an expat, read our guide here: The Truth About Working & Living In Saudi Arabia.
How to Find Jobs in Saudi Arabia as a British Expat
Finding a job in Saudi Arabia as a British expat requires preparation and a good understanding of the local job market.
Here are our recommendations to help you secure an expat job in Saudi Arabia:
Work With a Recruitment Agency
One of the easiest ways to find a job in Saudi Arabia is by working with recruitment agencies, like Oriel Partners, who specialise in placing foreign professionals in roles across various sectors in Saudi Arabia.
These agencies often have access to exclusive job listings and are the first to hear about new job openings. They will help to guide you through the application process, ensuring your CV aligns with local market expectations. They also provide support with the legalities involved in getting a work visa.
Research High-Demand Sectors
Certain industries are experiencing high growth in Saudi Arabia, particularly those tied to Vision 2030, such as technology, construction, healthcare and education. For a successful job search, it is recommended to focus your job search on sectors where there is a clear demand for skilled foreign workers.
Roles in project management, engineering, finance and executive assistance are particularly popular among expats, especially as the Kingdom invests in major infrastructure and development projects.
Use Online Job Boards
In addition to working with recruitment agencies, online job boards are an excellent resource for finding the latest open positions in Saudi Arabia. Websites like Oriel Partners’ job board feature live vacancies for expats.
These job boards usually provide filters to help you narrow down job opportunities based on your experience, salary expectations and location preferences.
Network and Build Connections
Networking will give you a big advantage when searching for jobs in Saudi Arabia. Many positions are filled through word of mouth or personal referrals, particularly those in senior management or specialised fields.
To stand a chance of getting ahead of the competition, connect with expat groups, attend industry events and reach out to professionals already based in Saudi Arabia. This may help you land an interview for a job opening that isn’t being widely advertised.
Prepare for the Visa Process
Once you’ve landed a job offer, the next step is applying for a work visa. It’s usual for your employer to sponsor your visa application, ensuring that you meet all legal requirements to work in Saudi Arabia.
The visa process can take several weeks, so plan time in for paperwork and medical checks. A recruitment agency like Oriel Partners will assist you with this process, providing guidance and support throughout.
Common Employment Benefits for Expats in Saudi Arabia
As we’ve discussed, Saudi Arabia offers attractive salary packages for expatriates, but equally, there is a range of common perks that many employers choose to offer that help to make Saudi Arabia an appealing place to relocate.
Accommodation Allowances
One of the best benefits of working in Saudi Arabia is the inclusion of accommodation allowances in many expat job contracts. These allowances help you to cover the cost of housing, easing the transition into life in the Kingdom.
Housing costs are significantly lower than in the UK, making these allowances an attractive part of the overall compensation package.
Healthcare and Insurance
Expats in Saudi Arabia often receive comprehensive medical insurance as part of their employment package. This coverage typically extends to dependents and includes a wide range of services, from outpatient care to specialist treatments and hospital stays.
This benefit provides peace of mind and ensures that healthcare needs are well-covered without the expense of private insurance.
Education Allowances
For families relocating to Saudi Arabia, education allowances are commonly offered to help cover the cost of international school fees. Expats have access to top-tier international schools with curricula like the British and American systems, ensuring children can continue their education smoothly and without interruption.
Annual Flight Tickets
Many employers in Saudi Arabia offer annual flight allowances, giving expats the opportunity to return home once a year. This benefit is especially appreciated by those who wish to maintain strong family ties and connections to the UK.
Relocation Packages
Relocation packages are another common benefit offered by employers in Saudi Arabia. These packages often cover the costs of moving, shipping personal belongings and settling into life in the Kingdom. Such benefits are particularly valuable for first-time expats who may find the logistics of relocating a challenge.
Start Your Saudi Arabia Job Search Today!
If you're ready to take the next step in your career and explore exciting job opportunities in Saudi Arabia, be sure to explore the current vacancies listed on Oriel Partners’ job board. We’d love to help you find the right role for you.
