Looking to speak with compensation experts familiar with KSA/ Saudi Arabia. We are finding that nationals are much harder to attract, hire and retain compared to non-nationals and are getting feedback that we should have higher salary ranges specifically for nationals.
1. Do you have different salary ranges in KSA for nationals and expats?
2. Do you see any difference in pay between nationals and expats?
3. If there is a difference what is the typical % difference, even as a range?
Thanks in advance for any help.
Very interesting and timely question...our initial research to date indicates that Saudi nationality employees don’t take housing allowance and perhaps no education allowance either but they often get higher basic compared to non-Saudi nationals.
That would align to what you are hearing - as always we need to look at the broader comp package (or even just the broader fixed pay package). Who do your allowances cover / how?
I find this type of twin speed approach in countries challenging from a market data perspective, which is usually just one number, generated by "companies like us" participating. Its the same in Japan when there seems to be a distinct difference between comp packages of those Japan HQ'd companies -v- multi-nationals.
Happy to chat direct on Saudi - its something we are actively working on now.
Hi Amanda,
General comment here as I work remotely in Dubai and predominately my company operates elsewhere.
Have noticed there is 'Emeratization' & 'hiring locals as preference for some roles' in UAE. There appears to be 'salary boost by the scheme' in a higher job levels where companies benefit for hiring local talent. If not already, have a read of the KSA's version of 'Emeratization' policy.
I have skimmed through the UAE policy and the scheme is supportive towards certain professionals in the IT/ Tech & medical industries.