Working in Saudi Arabia: Visa, Iqama, Salary and Job Guide
Saudi Arabia is hiring at scale for construction, energy, healthcare, hospitality and large Vision 2030 projects. Major job centres are Riyadh, Jeddah and the Eastern Province (Dammam, Khobar, Jubail).
Your employer sponsors your work visa. After arrival you receive an iqama (residence permit), which you must carry and keep valid for the whole of your stay.
Saudi Arabia at a glance
- Currency
- Saudi riyal (SAR)
- Capital
- Riyadh
- Language
- Arabic (English is common in large companies)
- Weekend
- Friday and Saturday
- Income tax on salary
- None
Frequently asked questions
What is an iqama?
The iqama is the residence permit issued to foreign workers in Saudi Arabia. Your employer applies for it and renews it; it is required for banking, SIM cards and travel.
Is salary taxed in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia does not charge personal income tax on employment income. VAT applies to most goods and services.
How much annual leave do workers get in Saudi Arabia?
Workers are entitled to at least 21 days of paid annual leave, rising to 30 days after five consecutive years with the same employer.
How is end-of-service benefit calculated in Saudi Arabia?
The labour law provides half a month's wage for each of the first five years of service and one month's wage for each year after that, subject to the reason the contract ends.
Do I have to pay to get a job in Saudi Arabia?
No genuine employer should ask you for money for a job offer or a visa. In the Gulf countries the employer normally pays the recruitment, visa and work permit costs. Be careful of anyone who asks for a "processing fee" or "visa fee" before you have a written offer.
Which documents do I need to work in Saudi Arabia?
Usually a passport valid for at least six months, passport photos, your educational and experience certificates (often attested), a medical fitness test and sometimes a police clearance certificate. Indian passport holders with ECR status also need emigration clearance through the eMigrate portal.
How do I apply for jobs in Saudi Arabia on JobAdsToday?
Create your free profile with your mobile number, upload your CV or build one with our AI profile builder, then open any job and click Apply. You can track every application from your dashboard.
This guide is general information, last reviewed on 17 October 2026. Rules change, so always confirm visa and labour details with the official government websites and your employer before you travel.