Experience profession seeking guidance for Saudi IT job market.

Question

All,

I stumbled on PrepLounge yesterday and was really intrigued after navigating the site.

I am based in the US and I recently visited Riyadh in February for the LEAP 2025 Tech/AI conference and was truly impressed by the city's energy, innovation, and vision for the future. The experience reinforced my interest in exploring career opportunities in Saudi Arabia, and I’d love to get your insights on the best way to navigate the job market there.

I bring 25 years of experience with extensive consulting experience (18 years) as a contractor with IBM, CSC/CSRA (General Dynamics), and Accenture, where I’ve worked on analytics, digital transformation, AI, and data strategy across diverse industries.

What would you recommend as the best approach for exploring opportunities in Saudi Arabia? Are there specific industries or companies actively hiring professionals with my background?

I’d really appreciate your guidance.

Answer 1

Hey Masa😊,

It’s great to hear that your visit to Riyadh for LEAP 2025 inspired you to explore opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s IT sector. With your 25 years of experience in consulting, analytics, AI, and digital transformation, there’s definitely a strong market for your skillset, especially with Vision 2030 driving massive tech investments.

1️⃣ Best Approach to Exploring Opportunities in Saudi IT

✅ Target Top IT & Consulting Firms – Many global firms (Big 4, MBB, Accenture, IBM, etc.) and regional consultancies have a strong presence in Saudi Arabia. Your consulting background makes you a strong candidate for digital transformation & strategy leadership roles.
✅ Utilize Specialized Job Platforms – There are dedicated portals for mid-to-senior level IT consulting positions in Saudi Arabia, which can help you get visibility among recruiters.
✅ Leverage Your Network & Professional Communities – Engaging with local tech groups, LinkedIn communities, and industry events can help you connect with decision-makers and recruiters directly.

2️⃣ Industries & Companies Actively Hiring

🚀 Government-backed digital transformation projects – Saudi Arabia is heavily investing in smart cities, AI, and cloud infrastructure, and there are plenty of openings in these areas.
🚀 Financial Services & FinTech – With rapid growth in digital banking & blockchain, major banks and fintech companies seek IT strategy professionals.
🚀 Consulting & Technology Firms – MBB, Big 4, Accenture, and regional firms are scaling up their tech & digital transformation practices, which align well with your experience.

3️⃣ Next Steps to Maximize Your Chances

🔹 Refine Your Pitch for Saudi Employers – Highlight experience in digital transformation, AI, and large-scale IT strategy.
🔹 Network with Decision Makers – Engage with recruiters and consultants already in Saudi Arabia for insights and potential referrals.
🔹 Stay Updated on Saudi Tech Trends – Following Vision 2030 initiatives and upcoming government-led projects can give you an edge when positioning yourself for roles.

With your strong consulting background and IT expertise, you’re in a great position to transition into Saudi Arabia’s growing tech sector. Let me know if you need any help strategizing your job search or refining your approach!

Best, Alessa 😇

Answer 2

Hi there,

I would say that Consulting is always a great stepping stone into a new region / economy as it will give you the opportunity to see and network a lot. I think you have the following options:

1. Get into a local Consulting company - you are at the right place here for tips and tricks ;)

2. Apply directly for an industry position - this would be much more "cold call" as I assume you do not have any Middle East experience so far but given your background you touch a few topics that are thriving there.

For (1), brush up your CV, read up on Preplounge and apply to Consultancies, for (2) I would suggest that you do more analysis on which companies could work and then try to do some targeted networking to get a foot into the door.

I have worked in Dubai / Bahrain for 6+ months for BCG, happy to share some thoughts. Reach out anytime :)

Best,
Sebastian

Answer 3

Hi there,

If you're looking to break into the Saudi job market, focus on consulting firms, sovereign wealth funds (PIF-backed entities), and large-scale transformation projects - these are where your skills in AI, digital transformation, and data strategy will be most relevant.

Start by networking strategically:

MBB and Big 4 firms have strong footprints in Saudi Arabia. Leverage your consulting background to connect with partners or recruiters.
Government-backed initiatives (Vision 2030, NEOM, Red Sea Global, etc.) are hiring top-tier talent for AI and analytics roles.
Tech-driven firms like Aramco Digital, STC, and local AI startups are expanding aggressively.

Tactically, engage on LinkedIn, attend industry events (like future LEAP conferences), and explore local job portals (Bayt, GulfTalent). Cold outreach works well in this market if targeted properly.
Cheers,

Florian