Saudi Arabia is growing very fast because of Vision 2030. Big projects like NEOM, new buildings in Riyadh, and factories in Jeddah and Dammam need many workers. This is good news for people who do not have a university degree but have skills, experience, or a diploma from technical school. If you have vocational training or hands-on work experience, you can get good jobs in Saudi Arabia. The salary is tax-free, and many companies give free house and food. This guide will show you the best jobs, how to apply, and what you need to know if you do not have a degree.
High-Value Sectors Prioritizing Skills Over Degrees
Many companies in Saudi Arabia want people who can do the job well. They do not always need a university degree. They care more about your skills and certificates.
Construction and Infrastructure (Mega-Projects)
Construction is the biggest sector right now. Vision 2030 has huge projects, and they need thousands of workers every month.
Popular jobs without degree:
- Welder
- Pipefitter
- Electrician (with diploma)
- Plumber
- Heavy equipment operator (crane, forklift, excavator)
Best places to look:
- NEOM city projects
- Riyadh Metro and new buildings
- Jeddah and Dammam industrial areas
Oil, Gas, and Petrochemicals
Saudi Aramco and other big companies always hire skilled technicians from all over the world.
Popular jobs:
- HVAC technician
- Instrumentation technician
- Mechanical technician
- Safety technician
- Maintenance supervisor
Good things about these jobs:
- High salary
- Free accommodation and food
- Free medical insurance
- Free flight ticket every year
Automotive and Maintenance
Many factories and transport companies need people to fix cars, trucks, and machines.
Popular jobs:
- Auto mechanic
- Diesel mechanic
- Heavy vehicle technician
- Auto electrician
- Tire man and body repair
You usually need a technical diploma or certificate from a training center.
Skill Level and Qualification Table
| Skill Level | What You Need | Example Jobs |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Trades | Diploma, ITI, Vocational Certificate | Technician, Welder, Electrician, Operator |
| Semi-Skilled | High School + Experience | Driver, Security Guard, Helper |
| Unskilled Labour | Very little education | Cleaner, General Labour, Kitchen Helper |
Non-Degree Pathways: Focus on Certification
In Saudi Arabia, your technical certificate is more important than a university degree for these jobs.
Use Your Technical Certificates Well
If you finished ITI, NVQ, NCVT, polytechnic diploma, or any vocational course, write it clearly on your CV.
Tips for CV:
- Put all certificates and licenses at the top.
- Write the name of the course, year, and institute.
- Add photos of certificates if possible.
- Mention how many years of experience you have.
Companies love candidates who already have training. It saves them time and money.
Security and Service Jobs (Easy Entry)
These jobs need almost no education, but you must be honest and hard-working.
Service jobs:
- Hotel waiter / housekeeper
- Restaurant worker
- Cleaner in mall or hospital
- Delivery driver (need Saudi driving license later)
Security guard jobs:
- Very high demand
- Good salary (3,000–5,000 SAR + free house and food)
- Company gives training after you arrive
- Must be physically fit and under 45 years old usually
Many people from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Philippines, Kenya, and Uganda work in these jobs.
Application Strategy and Visa Rules
Visa Sponsorship – Very Important
Only the company can give you a work visa. Never come on visit or Umrah visa and try to change it. It is very difficult now and can get you in trouble.
Safe way:
- Apply from your home country.
- Use only licensed recruitment agents.
- Sign the job offer before you travel.
- The company will send you a visa and flight ticket.
Popular countries that send workers: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Philippines, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda.
Salary and Benefits (Real Numbers)
Skilled workers without degree can earn good money.
| Item | Amount (Saudi Riyal) |
|---|---|
| Basic Salary | 4,000 – 6,500 |
| Housing Allowance | 1,000 – 2,000 (if not free house) |
| Transport Allowance | 500 – 800 |
| Total Monthly | 5,500 – 9,300 |
Extra benefits many companies give:
- Free shared accommodation
- Free food or food allowance
- Medical insurance
- Yearly paid vacation + ticket
Remember: No income tax in Saudi Arabia!
FAQs for Blue-Collar Applicants
Do I need to speak Arabic?
No. Most big companies and project sites use English. Supervisors speak English. Arabic is helpful but not required.
Where can I find urgent jobs?
Search online for jobs in Dammam, Jubail, Jeddah, and Riyadh industrial areas. If you are already in Saudi Arabia, look for walk-in interviews on weekends.
Is there a minimum wage?
No fixed minimum wage for all expats, but good companies pay at least 3,000–4,000 SAR basic + free house and food. Always check the full package.
Can my family come with me?
Only if your basic salary is 5,000 SAR or more (new rule). Most technician jobs now allow family visa after 1–2 years.
How long is the contract?
Usually 2 years. After that you can renew or change company.
Conclusion: Start Your Saudi Career Today
Saudi Arabia is one of the best countries for people who have skills but no university degree. The country needs welders, electricians, mechanics, drivers, security guards, and many more workers right now.
If you have a technical diploma, certificate, or good experience, you can earn tax-free salary, save money, and give a better life to your family.
Simple steps to start:|
- Update your CV with all certificates.
- Contact licensed recruitment agencies in your country.
- Apply only for jobs that offer visa sponsorship.
- Be patient – good jobs take 1–3 months.
Your skill is your power. Saudi Arabia is waiting for workers like you!
Need a trusted recruitment agency for blue-collar jobs in Saudi Arabia? Ask me, I can suggest good ones. Please share this guide with your friends who want to work in Saudi Arabia!
Disclaimer:
All information is for education only. Salary, visa rules, and labour laws can change. Always check with the official company or Saudi government website before you apply or travel.