Why Saudi Arabia real estate is attracting global talent

I recently sat down with Tom Brooks, our Country Lead for Saudi Arabia at Hintel, for a devcast episode exploring the rapidly evolving Saudi Arabia real estate market. Tom has witnessed firsthand how the Kingdom has become a magnet for global talent.

I opened our discussion with a question I've been pondering: "Just tell me what's happening right now in the market? What is the appetite between attracting global talent, bringing it into the Kingdom versus talent that already exists, could be expatriate or local talent?"

The current state of GCC talent acquisition

Tom's response revealed a market in motion. We're seeing substantial movement from Australia and the UK. Demand for digital experts has shifted dramatically.

Recruitment Saudi Arabia has transformed into strategic talent acquisition. Companies seek candidates combining international expertise with regional adaptability.

Tom emphasised adaptability as the differentiator. Saudi Arabia operates differently, requiring openness and humility.

Geographic shifts: Beyond Riyadh and Jeddah

Tom explained that Riyadh remains the anchor, particularly with Riyadh Expo 2030 and the World Cup creating immovable deadlines. Emerging destinations like Al-Ula and Abha have become standalone hubs.

The Red Sea Project and NEOM represent two of the world's largest giga projects Saudi is delivering.

What's driving candidate interest in Vision 2030

When I asked Tom what themes resonate most with candidates, his answer was compelling. These projects are generational. Professionals want to make their mark on transformative developments shaping the Kingdom for decades.

Saudi Vision 2030 creates once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that don't exist elsewhere globally.

Executive search in the Middle East

Tom shared how we've placed hundreds of professionals, with executive placements on major giga projects in Saudi as career highlights demonstrating client trust in our executive search capabilities.

Vision 2030 opportunities extend beyond property development, including memorable searches like Arabian leopard breeders.

Strategic talent solutions for major projects

I asked Tom what solutions are cutting through in the market. His answer captured our approach perfectly:

"As a team, we've got over a hundred years regional experience, so our clients value that. Embedding the team into a project is something that traditionally clients question. But once they understand and start seeing the value in that, embedding us as an extension of their recruitment team is definitely the most powerful."

Tom emphasised that being proactive is essential. Workforce planning, budgeting, and talent pooling separate successful projects from those struggling against aggressive timelines.

The market outlook for the next 18 months

Tom's prediction is bullish. The market will intensify as Riyadh Expo 2030 and World Cup deadlines approach. Opportunities will outweigh talent which are excellent for professionals considering Saudi Arabia.

Medina and Mecca represent significant opportunities flying under the radar. According to Saudi Arabian government analysis, Vision 2030 continues accelerating.

Career advice for entering the Saudi market

Tom's advice is straightforward. Networking remains paramount. Build relationships with specialist headhunters. Success happens through professional relationships and sector expertise. For a confidential discussion about your career or your project's talent needs, contact our Saudi Arabia team today.

About the Authors

Andrew Deverell-Smith founded the deverellsmith group in 2006, leading the Executive Search, Research and Talent Advisory team. With 22 years' experience, Andrew and his team source elite Real Estate leaders globally whilst providing consultancy services and supporting large growth projects.

Tom Brooks is Director and Country Lead for Saudi Arabia at Hintel, part of the deverellsmith group, with over 15 years' experience in the GCC region. He specialises in tourism and hospitality, sports entertainment and leisure, and commercial mixed-use and residential projects across the Middle East.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do I need to work in Saudi Arabia real estate?

Most real estate development KSA positions require relevant degrees plus 5-10 years' experience. Regional GCC experience remains valued, though international expertise increasingly opens doors. Adaptability often matters as much as technical qualifications.

How competitive are salaries for giga project roles in Saudi Arabia?

Giga projects Saudi positions offer highly competitive, tax-free packages that outperform equivalent Western roles. The combination of tax advantages and career progression makes Saudi Arabia financially attractive.

Is GCC experience essential for securing roles in Saudi Arabia?

Whilst GCC experience helps employers, it's not always essential. GCC talent acquisition increasingly values innovative global approaches. Candidates demonstrating adaptability and specialist expertise can transition successfully without prior regional experience.