The change in the Kingdom is not just a plan for the future. It is happening now. In 2026, Saudi Arabia has finished much of the building work on its big projects. Now, it is moving to the running and operating stage. Saudization, also called Nitaqat, has helped many office jobs go to Saudi people. But the need for special skills from around the world is very high.
For people from other countries, the job market in 2026 is about special skills. If you have strong knowledge in AI, green energy, or top-class hotels, Saudi Arabia offers some of the best pay packages with no tax. This guide looks at the open jobs in Vision 2030. It also explains the new rules for living and working here.
High-Demand Sector Keywords: Where the Jobs Are
In 2026, jobs for experts from outside are mostly in key areas. These are places where Saudi people are still learning more skills.
- Gigaproject Management Jobs in NEOM, The Red Sea Global, and Qiddiya are now about running the projects. They need people who know how to manage smart cities and keep big buildings working well.
- Renewable Energy & Green Hydrogen The NEOM Green Hydrogen Plant is starting to work soon. There is big need for experts in changing water to hydrogen and connecting wind and solar power to the grid.
- Hospitality & Luxury Tourism New very fancy hotels are opening in AlUla and the Red Sea area. This creates many jobs for managers from other countries and people who make guests feel special.
- Fintech & Digital Banking Jobs in new ways of banking and blockchain are growing fast. The Kingdom wants to be one of the top 10 money centers in the world by 2030.
- Cybersecurity & AI Engineering Top jobs in protecting from online attacks are important for The Line. This is the most advanced smart city in the world.
Visa & Residency Compliance: Moving Beyond the “Iqama”
To live and work in Saudi Arabia in 2026, you need to understand the new ways. The old sponsorship system is changing.
Premium Residency (Saudi Green Card)
This is the best choice for people with special skills. It gives long-term stay, the right to buy a house, and you can change jobs without a sponsor.
- Qiwa-Authenticated Contract All workers from outside must have a contract on the Qiwa website. In 2026, these contracts are strong in law. If pay is late, you can get help fast without going to court.
- Self-Sponsorship Eligibility Doctors, scientists, and top managers can now get residency without a company sponsor.
- Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE) Accreditation If you are an engineer, you must have this approval to work legally. In 2026, the check is all done online by the Ministry of Human Resources.
Also Read: New Zealand Hiring Foreign Workers in 2026: Fast-Growing Job Sectors
Labor Law & “Fairness”: Your Rights in 2026
The labor laws in Saudi Arabia changed a lot in 2024 and 2025. The goal is to bring the best workers from the world.
- Labour Reform Initiative (LRI) 2.0 In 2026, workers from outside can move to a new job when the contract ends. You do not need permission from the old boss.
- Maternity/Paternity Leave New rules give 12 weeks paid leave for mothers and some days for fathers to all people living here.
- Wage Protection System (WPS) Audit The government watches every payment. If a company is late even one day with salary, they cannot use government services until they pay.
- Gratuity (End of Service Benefit) This is still important. You get half a month’s pay for each of the first five years. Then a full month’s pay for each year after that.
Skills & “Saudization-Exempt” Roles
To avoid problems with Saudization, look for jobs in special areas. These are open more to foreigners. Jobs in shops and HR are now mostly for Saudis. But these are still open:
- Medical Specialization Top doctor jobs in cancer care, genes, and robot operations.
- STEM Education Teachers and researchers at universities like KAUST and Princess Nourah University.
- Mine-to-Mill Technology Special jobs in automation for mining projects like Ma’aden.
- ESG & Sustainability Experts who help companies follow green rules and report on carbon.
Interactive: Is Your Role at Risk of Saudization?
| Role Category | Saudization Level 2026 | Expat Opportunity |
|---|---|---|
| Admin & HR | 100% (High) | Very Low |
| Engineering | 30% (Medium) | High (Specialized only) |
| IT & Cybersecurity | 25% (Low) | Very High |
| Healthcare | 45% (Medium) | High (Consultants) |
FAQ: Working in Saudi Arabia 2026
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What is the minimum salary for a “Special Talent” Premium Residency?
In 2026, top managers often need about SAR 80,000 per month. Doctors and scientists need around SAR 35,000.
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Do I still need an Exit/Re-entry visa?
Yes, but in 2026, you can get it yourself on the Absher app. You do not need to ask your boss.
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Is the notice period the same for everyone?
Mostly yes. In 2026, bosses need 60 days to end a long contract. Workers need 30 days to leave.
Take the Next Step
The Kingdom needs people who want to build new things. If you know a lot about AI or running fancy hotels, Vision 2030 can be a great place for your career in 2026.
Would you like me to make a “2026 Salary Benchmarking Report” for the top 10 jobs for foreigners in NEOM and Riyadh?
Disclaimer: This information about jobs is for learning only. Always check with official places like the Vision 2030 website or Ministry of Human Resources before you apply.