Project management continues to be one of the most in-demand professions in Saudi Arabia, with Riyadh standing at the center of the Kingdom’s massive transformation agenda. From giga-projects like NEOM and Diriyah Gate to the digitalization of key sectors, skilled project managers are driving progress and efficiency across industries.

This article provides an overview of average salaries for project managers in Riyadh in 2025, breaking down pay ranges, benefits, and factors that influence compensation.

Why Project Management Roles Are Growing in KSA

The demand for project managers in Saudi Arabia has surged due to several factors:

• Vision 2030 Initiatives: The national strategy has spurred hundreds of large-scale infrastructure, tourism, and technology projects.

• Private Sector Expansion: As the government pushes for diversification, private companies are investing in large development programs.

• Digital Transformation: Organizations across banking, healthcare, and energy are hiring IT and digital project managers to manage modernization programs.

These factors make Riyadh a magnet for both local and expatriate professionals in project management.

Average Salary Overview (2025)

Salary levels vary based on experience, sector, and the complexity of projects managed. Here’s an updated overview of average monthly salaries for 2025:

Entry-Level Project Managers

• Experience: 0–3 years

• Average Salary: SAR 10,000 – 15,000

• Typically employed in assistant or junior PM roles in construction or IT projects.

Mid-Level Project Managers

• Experience: 4–8 years

• Average Salary: SAR 18,000 – 28,000

• Often responsible for medium-sized projects or teams within multinational firms.

Senior Project Managers

• Experience: 9+ years

• Average Salary: SAR 30,000 – 45,000

• Manage large, complex projects in infrastructure, energy, or technology.

Sector Comparison

• Construction & Engineering: SAR 25,000 – 45,000

• Information Technology: SAR 20,000 – 35,000

• Energy & Utilities: SAR 28,000 – 40,000

• Finance & Banking: SAR 22,000 – 32,000

• Public Sector: SAR 18,000 – 25,000

Compensation Components Beyond Base Pay

In Riyadh, many companies offer total packages that include more than just salary.

Allowances

Most project managers receive housing and transportation allowances, often accounting for 20–30% of the total package.

Bonuses

Performance-based bonuses and completion incentives are common, especially in construction and consulting.

Benefits

Employers typically provide medical insurance, annual airfare tickets, education allowances for dependents, and relocation assistance for expatriates.

Key Factors Influencing Pay

• Certifications: Holding a PMP, PRINCE2, or Agile certification can raise your salary by 10–20%.

• Experience and Project Scale: Managing multimillion-riyal projects or cross-functional teams commands higher compensation.

• Employer Type: Multinational and government-backed firms usually pay more than small local contractors.

• Industry Demand: Energy and construction continue to offer the most competitive packages.

Top Employers Hiring Project Managers in Riyadh

Some of the leading organizations currently hiring project managers include:

• Saudi Aramco – Energy and infrastructure projects.

• NEOM and Diriyah Gate Development Authority – Mega-project management.

• STC (Saudi Telecom Company) – IT, digital transformation, and network expansion.

• ACWA Power – Renewable energy and utilities projects.

• Saudi Binladin Group – Construction and contracting.

• PwC and Deloitte Middle East – Consulting and project delivery advisory.

How to Increase Your Salary Potential

• Earn recognized certifications: PMP, PMI-RMP, and PRINCE2 are most valued in KSA.

• Show measurable impact: Quantify cost savings, timelines met, and risk reductions in your portfolio.

• Strengthen bilingual communication: English and Arabic proficiency are key advantages in Riyadh’s business environment.

• Network within professional circles: Engage with PMI KSA Chapter events and LinkedIn groups.

• Research salary benchmarks: Use local job boards like JobHunt, Bayt, and Naukrigulf to understand market rates before negotiating.

Final Thoughts

As Saudi Arabia accelerates its Vision 2030 projects, Riyadh continues to offer some of the most competitive salaries in the region for skilled project managers. Professionals with international certifications, cross-industry experience, and strong leadership skills will find 2025 an excellent year to grow their careers in the Kingdom.

With opportunities spanning from construction and infrastructure to IT and renewable energy, Riyadh remains the heart of project management in the Middle East.