Are you a foreigner looking for high-paying medical jobs abroad? Saudi Arabia could just be answer to your job seeking opportunity.
With its growing healthcare sector, tax-free salaries, modern hospitals, and demand for skilled professionals, Saudi Arabia has become one of the top destinations for foreign medical workers. Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, or specialist, there’s a strong chance to earn more, gain international experience, and enjoy a rewarding lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the highest paying medical jobs in Saudi Arabia for foreigners, what qualifications you need, how to apply, and what life is like as a medical expat in the Kingdom.
Highest Paying Medical Jobs in Saudi Arabia for Foreigners
Saudi Arabia is heavily investing in healthcare, making it a hotspot for international medical professionals. Here’s a breakdown of the top-paying roles for foreigners in the medical field:
1. Consultant Physicians
Average Salary: SAR 50,000 – SAR 70,000/month (~USD 13,000 – 18,600)
Consultants are top-tier medical experts with years of experience. They specialize in fields like:
- Cardiology
- Orthopedics
- General Surgery
- Neurology
- Oncology
Why It Pays Well:
Requires board certification and 8+ years experience
Vital to hospital operations and patient outcomes
2. Anesthesiologists
Average Salary: SAR 45,000 – SAR 65,000/month (~USD 12,000 – 17,300)
Anesthesiologists are essential in surgical procedures. Due to a shortage of local talent, many hospitals recruit foreign anesthesiologists with international licenses.
Benefits:
High demand
Work in high-end private hospitals or government-funded facilities
3. Surgeons (General and Specialist)
Average Salary: SAR 40,000 – SAR 60,000/month (~USD 10,600 – 16,000)
Whether you’re a general surgeon or specialize in fields like plastic, orthopedic, or cardiac surgery, your skills are highly valued in the Kingdom.
Tips:
Board certification in your specialty boosts chances
International surgical experience is often preferred
4. Radiologists
Average Salary: SAR 35,000 – SAR 55,000/month (~USD 9,300 – 14,700)
Radiologists play a crucial role in diagnostics. With the rise of digital imaging and AI-based diagnostic tools, qualified professionals in this field are in high demand.
5. Emergency Medicine Specialists
Average Salary: SAR 30,000 – SAR 50,000/month (~USD 8,000 – 13,300)
As trauma and emergency departments expand, especially in urban centers like Riyadh and Jeddah, the need for emergency medicine experts continues to grow.
6. Pharmacists (Clinical & Hospital-Based)
Average Salary: SAR 15,000 – SAR 25,000/month (~USD 4,000 – 6,600)
While not as high-paying as doctor roles, clinical pharmacists working in tertiary hospitals still earn very competitive wages, especially with Western degrees.
7. Registered Nurses (Specialized)
Average Salary: SAR 10,000 – SAR 18,000/month (~USD 2,600 – 4,800)
Specialties like ICU, NICU, ER, and surgical nurses tend to get paid more. Foreign nurses with advanced training and certifications have better prospects.
8. Dentists (Orthodontists & Oral Surgeons)
Average Salary: SAR 25,000 – SAR 40,000/month (~USD 6,600 – 10,600)
Dental services are booming, especially in the private sector. Foreign dentists with international qualifications and proven experience can earn substantial salaries.
Qualifications and Licensing Requirements
Before you pack your bags, make sure you meet Saudi Arabia’s licensing standards. Here’s what you need:
- Basic Requirements for Medical Jobs in Saudi Arabia
- Valid medical degree from a recognized institution
- Board certification or specialty training
- Minimum of 2–5 years experience in your field
- Fluent English (Arabic not mandatory but helpful)
- Clean professional record
- Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS)
Every foreign medical professional must register with the SCFHS to get a professional license.
Steps to Get Licensed:
- Create a profile on Mumaris Plus (official SCFHS portal)
- Submit academic documents and professional credentials
- Pass Prometric exam (for many roles)
- Obtain Dataflow verification
- Pay fees and receive license approval
How to Find Medical Jobs in Saudi Arabia
Best Places to Look
Hospital Websites (e.g., King Faisal Specialist Hospital, Saudi German Hospital)
Recruitment Agencies specializing in Gulf jobs
Job Portals like:
- Bayt.com
- Naukrigulf
- GulfTalent
In-Demand Cities for Foreign Medical Workers
- Riyadh – Capital and healthcare hub
- Jeddah – Coastal city with many private hospitals
- Dammam/Khobar – Eastern region with oil wealth and top facilities
- Medina & Mecca – Pilgrimage centers needing seasonal healthcare workers
Benefits of Working in Saudi Arabia’s Medical Sector
Top Perks for Foreign Medical Professionals
- Free Housing or Housing Allowance
- Annual Air Tickets to your home country
- Family Visas (for qualified roles)
- End-of-Service Benefits – Bonus paid after your contract ends
- International Work Experience – Boosts your global career
Challenges to Be Aware Of
Working in a foreign country always comes with adjustments. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Cultural Adaptation
- Gender norms and local customs differ from Western countries
- Work hours may include weekends (Sunday–Thursday is the typical workweek)
- Language barrier – Most hospitals use English, but Arabic is a plus
Contract Terms
Always read your contract carefully. Understand:
- Work hours
- Overtime rules
- Vacation and leave days
- Termination clauses
Conclusion
The highest paying medical jobs in Saudi Arabia for foreigners not only offer financial rewards, but also open doors to career advancement and global experience. With generous benefits, a booming healthcare sector, and strong demand for skilled professionals, now is the perfect time to consider Saudi Arabia for your next medical job.
