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Advanced Degree (PhD) salary in Riyadh /Dubai

Hi Everyone!

I’m curious about the roles and salaries PhD graduates (top UK uni) typically land at top consulting firms. Here’s what I’ve gathered so far:

  • At McKinsey, PhDs seem to start as Associates (3rd level) with a base salary around $160k.
  • At BCG and Bain, however, in Riyadh, PhDs start as Senior Associates (2nd level) instead of Consultants (3rd level), which is different from the US.

I’d love to know:

  1. What’s the salary range for Senior Associates at BCG/Bain/Strategy& in Riyadh?
  2. Is it better to secure an internship during the PhD or apply directly after graduation?
  3. Does the location of your internship influence post-PhD placement opportunities?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences! 😊

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Top answer
Hagen
Coach
on Jan 09, 2025
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 8+ years consulting, 8+ years coaching and 7+ years interviewing experience

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

  • First of all, while no one can precisely determine the total compensation for these roles and consulting firms, you can expect anything from $130K to $160K.
  • Moreover, internships are meant to "test the waters" if you are unsure whether consulting is the right path for you. However, if you are certain about your career choice, there is no reason to pursue an internship unless you lack relevant work experience, which would make securing the internship equally challenging.
  • Lastly, no, it does not directly influence any future decisions you may make, even though securing a return offer is usually valid only for the specific office where you interned.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming pre-interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

on Jan 08, 2025
+600 Interviews | Free 30-min alignment call | Ex-Principal & Member of the Recruiting task force | 360° Coaching

Hi there,

  1. While I’m not certain about the exact salary band, it’s likely between USD 120-160k. In the Middle East, this often includes additional perks like transportation or housing allowances.
  2. I highly recommend securing an internship. If your performance is strong, it often leads to a full-time offer. It’s also an excellent way to assess if the job and company culture suit you. Even if it doesn’t, having the internship experience strengthens your profile when applying to other consulting firms.
  3. The location of your internship can influence your post-PhD placement, as firms often hire for the region where you intern. If your performance is strong and the region you are looking at is hiring, transitions between offices are possible.

Good luck with your next steps! Feel free to reach out if you need further advice.

Have a great day,
Kairavee

Anonymous A
on Jan 09, 2025
Thank you!
Thabang
Coach
edited on Jan 13, 2025
Ex-McKinsey Consultant | McKinsey Top Coach & Interviewer | Special Offer: Buy 1 Session Get 1 Free (Limited time!)

Hey there, 

We can't say for certain what the ranges are, but I have a recruiting contact that does headhunting for BCG, Bain, OW, Kearney and Strategy& in Middle East. Based on my interactions with him, it seemed that the salary range for these firms seemed to range from $132,000 to $168,000. This was just for base compensation and excluded housing allowances, educational support (if you had kids), relocation assistance (if needed), and other minor perks. 

As for if it's better to secure an internship during the PhD or apply after graduation, that really depends. I'd try do the internship and try get a full time offer from that internship. 

All the best! 

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