For August 2025, here are some of the questions that are being asked around online with answer of a fresh perspective answers around the industry. These include visa rules, overseas talent, in-demand roles and many other things.
Our main goal of this series is to provide you guys the best possible information regarding recruitment industry and what is relevant and what is not.
1. How do I hire foreigners in Saudi Arabia now with the new visa rules?
Under the 2025 skill-based visa rules, classify candidates as high-skilled, skilled, or basic based on qualifications and salary, then sponsor their visa via the Ministry of Labor. Submit attested educational certificates, medical reports, and police clearance certificates. Ensure compliance with Saudization quotas, as the process favors high-skilled hires over lower-skilled roles.
2. What are the Saudization (Nitaqat) quotas I must follow when recruiting expats?
Saudization quotas mandate a percentage of Saudi nationals by sector and company size (e.g., 30% for firms with 100+ employees, 55% for pharmacies). Compliance is rated Platinum, Green, or Red, impacting visa privileges. Check current quotas, as non-compliance risks visa restrictions or fines.
3. Which sectors in Saudi have the biggest demand for overseas talent right now?
Healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and renewable energy lead demand, fueled by Vision 2030 projects like NEOM. Specialized roles in AI and urban planning are critical. Local talent shortages ensure ongoing need, despite Saudization pressures.
4. What documents are needed for expat work visa application in Saudi?
Required documents include a job offer letter, attested educational certificates, a medical report (within 3 months), a police clearance certificate, a valid passport (6+ months), and a sponsorship letter. Employers must provide commercial registration and a visa authorization number.
5. How can I screen for cultural fit when hiring expats for KSA?
Ask interview questions about adaptability to Saudi customs and experience in similar regions. Prioritize candidates familiar with Middle Eastern norms, business codes and gender segregation. Offer cultural training to ensure smooth integration.
6. How do I find overseas talent fast while staying compliant with Saudization?
Use recruitment agencies versed in Saudi rules to target fields with lower Saudization limits, like specialized positions. Focus on sectors needing foreign expertise and train Saudis to meet quotas. AI tools can accelerate compliant hiring.
7. What’s the salary range and benefits foreigners can expect in Saudi?
Salaries range from SAR 5,000–15,000 for skilled workers to SAR 15,000–40,000 for high-skilled roles (e.g., engineers), often tax-free. Benefits include accommodation, health insurance, transport, and leave, with extras like education allowances possible.
8. Which cities in Saudi hire the most international professionals?
Riyadh leads as the business hub, followed by Jeddah for commerce and Dammam/Khobar for oil and gas. NEOM and Qiddiya are rising due to Vision 2030, attracting global talent.
9. How is AI and recruitment tech changing hiring in Saudi Arabia?
AI streamlines hiring by screening resumes, matching candidates, and ensuring Saudization compliance via workforce analysis. It saves time but requires human oversight for fairness and cultural fit, especially for expats.
10. What are the biggest challenges of hiring foreign workers in Saudi right now?
Challenges include navigating the visa/sponsorship system, meeting Saudization quotas, and integrating expats culturally. The 2025 visa rules add complexity, while competition for skilled talent grows.
We hope these covers most questions and the adequate answers for them.
As the industry leader in Pakistan, Delta International Recruitment Agency (The Best Pakistani Agency for Overseas Recruitment) hopes to guide HR Professionals and Candidates with best possible information.
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