The Kingdom is experiencing a dynamic shift driven by higher salary expectations, expanding sectors, and a national drive to hire more Saudi talent.
According to the latest job market report from consultancy Hays, the employment landscape in Saudi Arabia is seeing record momentum. A significant 51% of professionals received salary hikes in 2023, and 81% are hopeful for similar gains this year. It’s no surprise then that many are open to moving, especially in a market where opportunities are growing rapidly.
Mark Paul, Senior Manager at Hays Middle East, noted that reflecting this year’s trend, 79% of employers say they will be recruiting employees on a permanent basis.
Non-oil sectors, in particular, are witnessing aggressive hiring. Industries like construction, project management, aviation, and hospitality are fueling the demand, supported by Vision 2030 targets and robust economic growth. With new ventures like Riyadh Air taking flight and hotels ramping up operations, job openings are spreading across the board.
An official from a leading construction company highlighted that in certain sectors, demand for skilled professionals consistently outpaces supply.
At the same time, the push for Saudization—integrating more Saudi nationals into the private sector—is reshaping recruitment goals. The Hays report states that 91% of employers currently employ Saudi nationals, and 87% aim to increase their headcount of nationals in 2025.
Hiring data from the report shows strong intent across all formats: 90% of Saudi organizations plan to recruit this year—79% on a permanent basis, and 23% on contract or freelance terms. Only 10% do not foresee hiring.
