Global recruitment firm Michael Page has released its 2026 Saudi Arabia Salary Guide, revealing that 79 per cent of professionals are actively searching for a new job, while nearly all respondents (98 per cent) remain open to new opportunities. Despite 51 per cent attempting to negotiate a pay rise over the past year, only 16 per cent succeeded, with 48 per cent saying they are satisfied with their current salaries.
“These figures tell a clear story,” said Chris Rea, Operating Director at Michael Page Saudi Arabia. “Companies are operating in a talent-rich market, but they also face a new challenge: whether their pay frames, benefits and development opportunities reflect the value that professionals bring. Employers who stay ahead of these trends will be the ones who attract and retain top talent. On the flip side, professionals who know these benchmarks set themselves up for more informed conversations and career decisions.”
The latest guide draws on extensive data across key sectors including energy, finance, technology, engineering, sales, and human resources.
In 2025, Saudi Arabia’s oil and gas sector continued to dominate the national energy portfolio, but renewables made fast gains, particularly in large-scale solar and wind projects. This transition is creating new jobs for professionals skilled in digital technologies, engineering, and sustainable energy solutions.
The report shows that salaries for specialised sustainability and energy roles are rising. Sustainability Managers now earn between SAR 40,000 and 50,000 per month, while Energy Transition Consultants can command up to SAR 55,000.
Green Finance Managers earn up to SAR 55,000, and Hydrogen and New Energies Specialists reach SAR 60,000, reflecting strong employer demand for hybrid skill sets that bridge traditional and new energy expertise.
Technology is also driving rapid workforce change, with tools such as AI, automation, and smart devices improving efficiency and creating demand for digitally fluent professionals. AI and machine learning engineers, cybersecurity experts, and data scientists are among the top five technology roles in demand.
Across industries, employers report skills shortages in engineering, technical, and digital fields despite strong national initiatives to develop Saudi talent. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 reforms, coupled with rapid diversification, are driving competition for local expertise in finance, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
The 2026 Salary Guide also highlights that sectors like finance, project management, and healthcare are offering premium packages for Saudi nationals with leadership experience.
Meanwhile, gender diversity continues to improve, with women now representing over 40 per cent of middle and senior management positions in some sectors.
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