Hire Quantity Surveyor in Saudi Arabia: The Complete Guide for Global Employers

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Why Global Companies Hire Quantity Surveyors from Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has emerged as a significant source of quantity surveying talent for global construction and development firms. Companies worldwide increasingly seek Saudi quantity surveyors for several compelling reasons:

Mega-project experience – Saudi quantity surveyors have firsthand experience with some of the world’s largest infrastructure and building projects, including NEOM, Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya Entertainment City. This provides them with unique expertise in managing complex cost structures for large-scale developments.
Regional construction knowledge – They possess specialized knowledge of Gulf region construction methods, materials availability, and pricing structures that are essential for accurate cost estimation in the Middle East market.
Bilingual capabilities – Most Saudi quantity surveyors are fluent in both Arabic and English, facilitating smooth communication with local contractors, international developers, and global project teams.
Cultural bridge – Saudi professionals understand both Western project management methodologies and Middle Eastern business practices, making them valuable intermediaries for international firms operating in the region.
Innovative technology adoption – Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 has accelerated the adoption of cutting-edge construction technologies, equipping Saudi quantity surveyors with experience in BIM, digital cost management platforms, and sustainable building practices.

Who Should Consider Hiring Saudi Arabian Quantity Surveyors

Several types of organizations can benefit significantly from hiring quantity surveyors based in Saudi Arabia:

International construction companies – Firms expanding into Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East need local quantity surveying expertise to navigate regional pricing structures, supplier networks, and procurement practices.
Global architectural firms – Design practices working on Middle Eastern projects benefit from Saudi quantity surveyors who can provide early cost advice and value engineering insights specific to local construction realities.
Project management consultancies – Professional services firms supporting major Saudi developments need quantity surveyors who understand local cost drivers and can interface effectively with Saudi clients and authorities.
Real estate developers – Companies investing in Saudi Arabian property development require quantity surveyors familiar with local market rates, building codes, and development regulations to accurately forecast project costs.
Oil and gas corporations – Energy companies with infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia need specialized quantity surveyors familiar with the unique cost considerations of industrial and energy-sector construction in the Kingdom.

Key Skills and Specializations for Quantity Surveyors

Quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia typically develop expertise across a range of core skills and may specialize in particular project types or industry sectors:

Core Technical Skills

Cost estimation and budgeting – Developing accurate project budgets considering local material costs, labor rates, and market conditions
Contract administration – Managing construction contracts according to Saudi and international standards (FIDIC, RICS, etc.)
Procurement management – Organizing tender processes and evaluating bids from contractors and suppliers
Value engineering – Identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising project quality
Construction cost control – Tracking expenditures against budgets and forecasting final costs
Claim management – Analyzing, preparing, and responding to contractual claims and variations
Risk assessment – Identifying and quantifying potential cost risks specific to Saudi projects

Specialization Areas

Specialization	Key Knowledge Areas	Typical Projects
Residential Development	– Saudi housing market trends – Residential construction materials and methods – MOH building standards	– Housing complexes – Gated communities – Apartment towers
Commercial Construction	– Office and retail cost benchmarks – Mixed-use development economics – Commercial fit-out standards	– Shopping centers – Office buildings – Hospitality projects
Infrastructure & Transportation	– Heavy civil engineering costs – Infrastructure material logistics – Transportation regulatory requirements	– Highways and bridges – Railways and metro systems – Airports and ports
Oil & Gas Facilities	– Industrial construction methods – Specialized material requirements – Aramco project standards	– Refineries – Processing plants – Storage facilities
Healthcare & Education	– Specialized building systems costing – Saudi healthcare design standards – Education project benchmarks	– Hospitals – Universities – School complexes

Experience Levels of Saudi Arabian Quantity Surveyors

The quantity surveying profession in Saudi Arabia encompasses professionals at various career stages, each offering different capabilities and expertise:

Entry-Level (0-3 years)

Junior quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia typically hold a bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying, construction management, or civil engineering. At this stage, professionals:

Assist with measurement and takeoff from drawings
Support preparation of bills of quantities
Help compile cost reports and payment applications
Gain familiarity with Saudi construction standards and practices
Work under supervision of more experienced surveyors

Mid-Level (4-7 years)

With several years of experience, mid-level quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia develop more autonomous capabilities:

Independently prepare and analyze cost estimates
Manage tender processes for medium-sized projects
Handle contract administration and change management
Prepare and negotiate claims and variations
Conduct value engineering exercises
May supervise junior team members
Often pursue professional qualifications such as RICS membership

Senior-Level (8+ years)

Senior quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia typically hold professional certifications (MRICS, PQS) and take on strategic responsibilities:

Lead cost management for large-scale or complex projects
Develop and implement cost control systems and procedures
Provide high-level cost advice to clients and project stakeholders
Manage commercial risks and dispute resolution
Lead procurement strategies and contract negotiations
Mentor and develop junior professionals
Contribute to business development and client relationships

Director/Head of Cost Management (12+ years)

At the highest level, quantity surveying professionals in Saudi Arabia take on leadership roles:

Oversee cost management across multiple projects or entire programs
Develop strategic cost planning approaches for major developments
Build and maintain client relationships at executive level
Lead teams of quantity surveyors and commercial managers
Contribute to organization-wide policies and procedures
Often hold senior professional designations (FRICS) and advanced degrees

Hiring Models to Choose From

When seeking to engage quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia, organizations have several employment models to consider, each with distinct advantages and considerations:

Hiring Model	Best For	Advantages	Considerations
Direct Employment	Long-term projects or permanent operations in Saudi Arabia	– Full control over work quality and processes – Greater team integration and loyalty – Knowledge retention within the organization – Clearer career progression for employees	– Requires legal entity in Saudi Arabia – Higher fixed overhead costs – Full responsibility for compliance with Saudi labor laws – Less flexibility to scale team size
Project-Based Contractors	Specific projects with defined scopes and durations	– Flexibility to engage for specific project durations – Access to specialized expertise as needed – Reduced administrative burden – Lower long-term financial commitment	– Potentially higher hourly/daily rates – Less control over work methods – Possible contractor misclassification risks – Knowledge may leave with the contractor
Staff Augmentation	Scaling teams quickly for large projects or peak workloads	– Rapid access to qualified professionals – Ability to quickly scale up or down – Reduced recruitment effort – Simplified administration	– Premium pricing compared to direct hires – Potential integration challenges with permanent staff – Less control over staff selection – Divided loyalty between employer and provider
Outsourced Quantity Surveying Services	Organizations seeking complete cost management solutions	– Comprehensive service delivery – Access to established methodologies – Minimal management overhead – Provider assumes performance responsibility	– Higher overall cost – Less direct control over individual staff – Potential communication barriers – Service level dependent on provider quality
Employer of Record (EOR)	Companies without Saudi legal entity seeking to hire locally	– Hire in Saudi Arabia without establishing an entity – Full compliance with local employment laws – Simplified payroll and benefits administration – Maintain day-to-day work direction	– Service fees increase employment costs – Shared employment responsibilities – Need to establish clear communication channels – Some limitations on employment terms

How to Legally Hire Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia

Companies seeking to hire quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia have two primary options: establishing a local entity or using an Employer of Record (EOR) service.

Option 1: Establishing a Legal Entity in Saudi Arabia

Setting up a business entity in Saudi Arabia allows you to directly employ quantity surveyors but requires significant investment:

Entity registration – Establish a legal presence such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), branch office, or professional services firm
Capital requirements – Meet minimum capital requirements (varying by entity type)
Licensing – Obtain necessary business licenses and commercial registration
Banking setup – Open corporate bank accounts for payroll and operations
Tax registration – Register with Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority
GOSI registration – Register with General Organization for Social Insurance
Ministry of Human Resources compliance – Meet Saudization requirements and labor regulations

This process typically takes 3-6 months and requires significant capital investment. For detailed information on establishing a business in Saudi Arabia, consult our guide on registering a business in Saudi Arabia which covers all legal and compliance requirements.

Option 2: Using an Employer of Record (EOR) Service

An Employer of Record service like Asanify offers a faster, more flexible alternative for hiring quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia:

Legal employment – The EOR legally employs staff on your behalf
Compliance management – The EOR ensures adherence to all Saudi labor laws
Payroll and benefits – Handles salary payments, tax withholding, and mandatory benefits
HR administration – Manages contracts, leave, and other HR processes
Risk mitigation – Reduces legal and compliance risks associated with direct employment

With an EOR in Saudi Arabia, you can hire quantity surveyors in as little as 1-2 weeks without establishing a legal entity, while maintaining full control over their day-to-day work.

Factor	Direct Entity Approach	Employer of Record (Asanify)
Setup time	3-6 months	1-2 weeks
Initial investment	$50,000-$100,000+	No setup costs
Ongoing costs	Entity maintenance, staff, compliance	Transparent monthly service fee
Legal risk	Full liability for compliance	Shared with EOR provider
Expertise required	In-depth knowledge of Saudi regulations	Minimal – handled by EOR
Flexibility	Limited – significant exit costs	High – scale up or down as needed
Control over operations	Complete ownership	Day-to-day work direction maintained

Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia

Step 1: Define Your Specific Requirements

Begin by clearly outlining what you need from your quantity surveying talent:

Identify the specific experience level needed (junior, mid-level, senior)
Determine required specializations (commercial, residential, infrastructure, etc.)
Specify essential technical skills (cost estimation, BIM, specific software)
Clarify necessary certifications (RICS, PQS, AACE)
Define language requirements (Arabic proficiency level, English fluency)
Establish project or role duration (temporary assignment or permanent position)

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Hiring Model

Based on your business needs and presence in Saudi Arabia, choose your hiring approach:

Assess whether your needs warrant establishing a Saudi entity
Determine if an Employer of Record service is more suitable for your situation
Consider whether project-based contractors would meet short-term requirements
Evaluate staff augmentation options for flexible team scaling
Analyze the cost implications of each model for your specific situation

Step 3: Source Qualified Candidates

Develop a strategy to identify potential quantity surveyors:

Engage with specialized construction recruitment agencies in Saudi Arabia
Utilize professional platforms like LinkedIn with region-specific targeting
Connect with professional associations like RICS Saudi Arabia chapter
Attend industry events and construction conferences in the Kingdom
Reach out to Saudi universities with quantity surveying and engineering programs
Leverage existing industry contacts and referral networks

Step 4: Evaluate Technical and Cultural Fit

Implement a comprehensive assessment process:

Review portfolios of past projects and cost management examples
Conduct technical interviews focusing on Saudi-specific construction knowledge
Administer practical assessments (cost estimation exercises, contract reviews)
Verify professional qualifications and certifications
Assess cultural compatibility with your organization
Check references from previous Saudi construction projects

Step 5: Onboard Compliantly with Local Regulations

Complete the hiring process in accordance with Saudi labor laws:

Issue compliant employment contracts in Arabic (with optional English translation)
Register employees with relevant authorities (GOSI, labor office)
Set up proper payroll systems that accommodate Saudi requirements
Provide comprehensive onboarding covering both technical and cultural aspects
Establish clear communication channels and reporting structures

If using Asanify’s Employer of Record services, we handle all compliance aspects while you focus on integrating your new quantity surveyor into your team and projects.

Salary Benchmarks

Quantity surveyor compensation in Saudi Arabia varies based on experience level, qualifications, project specialization, and nationality. The following table provides general salary ranges in Saudi Riyal (SAR) as of 2025:

Experience Level	Monthly Salary Range (SAR)	Annual Salary Range (SAR)	Additional Benefits
Junior (0-3 years)	8,000 – 15,000	96,000 – 180,000	– Basic health insurance – Transportation allowance – 21 days annual leave
Mid-Level (4-7 years)	15,000 – 25,000	180,000 – 300,000	– Comprehensive health insurance – Housing allowance (25-30% of base) – Transportation allowance – 25 days annual leave – Possible project completion bonuses
Senior (8-12 years)	25,000 – 40,000	300,000 – 480,000	– Premium health insurance – Housing allowance (30-35% of base) – Transportation or car allowance – 30 days annual leave – Annual bonus (1-2 months salary) – Professional membership fees
Director/Head of QS (12+ years)	40,000 – 65,000+	480,000 – 780,000+	– Comprehensive family health insurance – Premium housing allowance (35-40% of base) – Executive car allowance – 30+ days annual leave – Performance-based bonuses (15-30% of annual salary) – Education allowance for children – Executive pension contributions

Note: Expatriate quantity surveyors may receive additional benefits such as relocation allowances, annual home leave tickets, and end-of-service benefits as required by Saudi labor law. Saudi nationals may receive different package structures in compliance with Saudization policies.

What Skills to Look for When Hiring Quantity Surveyors

Technical Skills

Cost Estimation and Budgeting – Ability to prepare accurate cost estimates and budgets for Saudi construction projects, considering local market conditions and price fluctuations
Quantity Take-off – Proficiency in measuring and quantifying construction elements from drawings and specifications according to standard measurement methods (POMI, SMM7, NRM)
Contract Administration – Knowledge of construction contracts commonly used in Saudi Arabia (FIDIC, Saudi Council of Engineers contracts) and ability to manage contractual processes
Procurement Management – Experience in preparing tender documents, evaluating bids, and managing the procurement process according to Saudi public and private sector requirements
Cost Control – Skills in monitoring project expenditures, analyzing variances, and implementing corrective actions to maintain budgets
Value Engineering – Ability to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or functionality
Claims Management – Experience in analyzing, preparing, and responding to contractual claims and variations, with knowledge of Saudi dispute resolution processes
Software Proficiency – Competence in industry-standard software including:
- Cost estimation tools (e.g., CostX, Buildsoft)
- BIM applications (e.g., Revit, Navisworks)
- Project management software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project)
- Spreadsheet and database programs (e.g., Excel, Access)

Specialized Knowledge

Saudi Building Codes and Standards – Familiarity with SBC (Saudi Building Code) requirements and how they impact construction costs
Local Material and Labor Markets – Understanding of Saudi construction material supply chains, labor availability, and pricing trends
Saudi Tax and Customs Regulations – Knowledge of how VAT, import duties, and other fiscal requirements affect project costs
Risk Management in Saudi Context – Ability to identify and mitigate cost risks specific to the Saudi construction environment

Soft Skills

Communication – Clear and effective communication skills, ideally in both English and Arabic, with ability to explain complex financial information to diverse stakeholders
Negotiation – Strong negotiation abilities for contractor discussions, change orders, and claim resolutions
Analytical Thinking – Capacity to analyze complex project data and make sound financial recommendations
Attention to Detail – Meticulous approach to measurements, calculations, and contract review
Cultural Sensitivity – Understanding of Saudi business customs and ability to work effectively in multicultural teams
Problem-Solving – Creative approach to resolving cost challenges and contractual disputes
Time Management – Ability to meet critical financial reporting deadlines and manage multiple priorities

Professional Qualifications to Consider

MRICS/FRICS – Membership of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, widely respected in Saudi Arabia
PQS – Professional Quantity Surveyor designation from relevant international bodies
CCP/CEP – Certified Cost Professional/Certified Estimating Professional from AACE International
SCE Registration – Registration with the Saudi Council of Engineers for certain project roles
PMI Certifications – PMP or other Project Management Institute credentials for senior roles

Legal and Compliance Considerations

Saudi Labor Law Requirements

When hiring quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia, employers must comply with comprehensive labor regulations:

Employment Contracts – Must be written in Arabic (with optional translation) and specify job duties, compensation, work location, and contract duration
Working Hours – Standard 48-hour workweek with limitations on overtime and special provisions during Ramadan
Probation Period – Cannot exceed 90 days (may be extended once by mutual agreement)
Annual Leave – Minimum 21 days per year, increasing to 30 days after five years of service
Sick Leave – 30 days full pay, 60 days at 75% pay, and 30 days without pay annually
End of Service Benefits – Mandatory severance payment calculated based on length of service (typically half month’s salary for each of the first five years and one month’s salary for each subsequent year)

Saudization Requirements

The Nitaqat program requires companies to employ Saudi nationals based on company size and industry:

Engineering and construction firms typically face Saudization targets of 10-25%
Non-compliance can result in restrictions on visa issuance, renewal, and business activities
Certain positions may be designated as Saudi-only roles

Visa and Work Permit Considerations

For expatriate quantity surveyors, employers must navigate Saudi Arabia’s visa system:

Work visas (Iqama) require sponsorship from a Saudi entity
Educational credentials must be authenticated and verified
Visa quotas may be affected by Saudization compliance status
Professional registration may be required with the Saudi Council of Engineers

Tax and Social Insurance Obligations

Employers have specific financial obligations related to employment:

GOSI Contributions – Mandatory social insurance payments (9.75% employer contribution for Saudi employees, 2% for expatriates)
Value Added Tax (VAT) – Current rate of 15% applies to most business transactions
Withholding Tax – May apply to certain payments to non-residents

Navigating these complex requirements can be challenging for international employers. Asanify’s Employer of Record services ensure full compliance with all Saudi labor laws and regulations, allowing companies to focus on leveraging their quantity surveying talent rather than managing administrative complexities. Our team stays current with the latest changes to Saudi employment laws and regulations to protect your business from compliance risks.

Common Challenges Global Employers Face

Navigating Complex Labor Regulations

Saudi Arabia’s labor laws contain nuanced requirements that can be difficult for foreign companies to master:

Frequent regulatory changes that require constant monitoring
Arabic language requirements for official documentation
Strict compliance requirements with substantial penalties for violations
Different rules for Saudi nationals versus expatriate employees

This complexity often leads to unintentional compliance issues that can result in fines or business disruptions. Working with an experienced Employer of Record like Asanify ensures that all regulatory requirements are properly managed.

Meeting Saudization Quotas

The Saudi government’s nationalization program presents challenges for hiring in specialized roles:

Limited pool of qualified Saudi quantity surveyors, especially for senior positions
Higher salary expectations for qualified Saudi nationals
Need to balance team composition to meet Nitaqat requirements
Additional training and development needs for less experienced local talent

Companies must develop strategic approaches to Saudization while maintaining necessary expertise levels.

Cultural and Communication Barriers

Working effectively with Saudi quantity surveying professionals requires cultural understanding:

Different business communication styles and expectations
Importance of relationship-building in professional contexts
Work schedule adjustments during religious observances (prayer times, Ramadan)
Varying approaches to hierarchy and decision-making

Successful employers invest in cultural training and establish clear communication protocols.

Remote Management Challenges

For global companies managing Saudi-based quantity surveyors remotely:

Time zone differences complicating real-time collaboration
Difficulty in monitoring project site activities from afar
Challenges in building team cohesion across geographical boundaries
Technology and connectivity issues affecting communication

Effective remote work policies and digital collaboration tools are essential for success.

Competitive Talent Market

Saudi Arabia’s construction boom creates high demand for qualified quantity surveyors:

Salary inflation due to competition from mega-projects
Retention challenges as professionals receive frequent competing offers
Limited supply of surveyors with both technical skills and language capabilities
Long recruitment timelines for specialized positions

Partnering with Asanify helps address these challenges through our deep understanding of the Saudi employment landscape, established recruitment networks, and comprehensive compliance management. Our Employer of Record service allows you to compete effectively for talent while avoiding the administrative burdens that often complicate hiring in Saudi Arabia.

Best Practices for Managing Remote Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia

Establish Clear Communication Protocols

Effective communication is the foundation of successful remote quantity surveying teams:

Schedule regular video meetings that accommodate Saudi working hours (Sunday-Thursday)
Implement standardized reporting templates for consistency across projects
Use collaborative platforms that support both English and Arabic content
Create a communication schedule that respects prayer times and religious observances
Document conversations and decisions to maintain clear audit trails
Establish escalation pathways for urgent issues requiring immediate attention

Leverage Digital Collaboration Tools

Technology can bridge the physical distance between global teams and Saudi-based quantity surveyors:

Implement cloud-based quantity surveying and cost management software
Utilize BIM collaboration tools to enable real-time quantity takeoff and cost planning
Adopt digital document management systems with version control
Use visual collaboration tools for reviewing drawings and construction progress
Consider construction-specific project management platforms that integrate cost control functions

Respect Cultural and Religious Practices

Understanding and accommodating Saudi cultural norms strengthens working relationships:

Adjust work expectations during Ramadan when working hours are reduced
Schedule around daily prayer times (especially Friday prayers)
Recognize important Islamic holidays with appropriate time off
Learn basic Arabic greetings and cultural courtesies
Understand the importance of relationship building in Saudi business culture

Provide Clear Deliverables and Expectations

Well-defined responsibilities and outputs are especially important for remote teams:

Develop detailed job descriptions with specific responsibilities and authority levels
Create standardized templates for common deliverables (cost reports, BOQs, etc.)
Establish clear quality standards and review processes
Set realistic deadlines that account for local working conditions
Implement performance metrics that objectively measure contribution

Invest in Relationship Building

Strong personal connections improve remote working effectiveness:

Schedule periodic in-person visits when possible
Create virtual team-building activities that accommodate cultural preferences
Take time for personal conversations beyond work topics
Recognize and celebrate individual and team achievements
Demonstrate interest in Saudi culture and current events

Develop Professional Growth Opportunities

Supporting career development increases engagement and retention:

Provide access to international training and certification programs
Create mentoring relationships with senior quantity surveyors globally
Offer opportunities to work on diverse project types
Support professional membership in organizations like RICS
Establish clear career progression pathways within your organization

Why Use Asanify to Hire Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia

Asanify offers a comprehensive solution for companies looking to hire and manage quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia without establishing a legal entity:

Simplified Hiring Without Entity Setup

Hire quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia in as little as 1-2 weeks without the expense and complexity of establishing your own legal entity
Access the Saudi construction talent market immediately while avoiding 3-6 months of entity setup time
Eliminate the need for minimum capital requirements and complex registration processes
Maintain full flexibility to scale your team up or down based on project requirements

Complete Compliance Management

Navigate Saudi labor laws confidently with our team of local compliance experts
Ensure all employment contracts meet Saudi legal requirements in both format and content
Stay current with changing regulations and Saudization requirements
Properly manage mandatory benefits, leave entitlements, and end-of-service awards
Mitigate compliance risks that could affect your projects and reputation

Streamlined Payroll and Benefits Administration

Process payroll in compliance with Saudi regulations and industry standards
Handle all required tax withholdings and social insurance contributions
Administer comprehensive benefits packages that attract and retain top quantity surveying talent
Provide employees with local support for payroll and benefits questions
Generate detailed reporting for better cost management and forecasting

Local Expertise and Support

Benefit from our deep understanding of the Saudi construction sector and its employment practices
Access guidance on market-appropriate compensation for different levels of quantity surveying roles
Receive support with cultural integration and communication best practices
Leverage our network within the Saudi construction community
Obtain assistance with work permits and professional registrations where required

Focus on Your Core Business

Dedicate your attention to project delivery while we handle employment administration
Eliminate the distraction of navigating complex Saudi HR and payroll requirements
Reduce internal administrative burden on your project management team
Maintain full control over day-to-day work direction and professional standards

With Asanify as your Employer of Record in Saudi Arabia, you can outsource work to Saudi Arabia efficiently while ensuring full legal compliance. Our services enable you to hire qualified quantity surveyors quickly, manage them effectively, and focus on delivering successful construction projects in the Kingdom.

FAQs: Hiring Quantity Surveyor in Saudi Arabia

What qualifications should I look for when hiring a Quantity Surveyor in Saudi Arabia?

Look for candidates with relevant educational backgrounds in quantity surveying, construction management, or civil engineering. Professional certifications such as MRICS (Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) or qualifications from the Saudi Council of Engineers add significant value. For senior positions, seek professionals with experience on similar project types in Saudi Arabia or the Gulf region. Technical proficiency in cost estimation software, BIM tools, and procurement management is also essential for effective performance.

How much does it cost to hire a Quantity Surveyor in Saudi Arabia?

Salary ranges vary by experience level. Junior quantity surveyors (0-3 years) typically earn SAR 8,000-15,000 monthly. Mid-level professionals (4-7 years) command SAR 15,000-25,000, while senior quantity surveyors (8+ years) earn SAR 25,000-40,000 monthly. Directors or heads of quantity surveying can earn SAR 40,000-65,000+ monthly. Additional costs include mandatory benefits, housing allowances (25-40% of base salary), transportation allowances, health insurance, and end-of-service benefits as required by Saudi labor law.

Do Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia need to be registered with any professional bodies?

While not always mandatory, registration with the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE) is increasingly important for quantity surveyors working on government projects or in roles requiring official sign-off on documents. International certifications like MRICS (Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) are highly regarded and may be required for senior positions. For certain specialized projects, additional registrations may be necessary depending on the specific requirements of the client or regulatory authority.

What is the typical notice period for Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia?

Notice periods in Saudi Arabia generally range from 30 to 90 days, depending on seniority and contract terms. Junior positions typically require 30 days’ notice, while mid-level roles often specify 60 days. Senior quantity surveyors and directors may have 90-day notice periods. These longer notice periods reflect the specialized nature of the role and the time required to properly transition project responsibilities. Always refer to the specific terms in the employment contract, as these can vary by organization.

How does Saudization affect hiring Quantity Surveyors?

Saudization (Nitaqat) requirements mandate that construction and engineering firms employ specified percentages of Saudi nationals. These requirements vary based on company size and specific industry classification. While finding Saudi nationals with extensive quantity surveying experience can be challenging, companies must develop strategies to meet Saudization targets, which might include hiring Saudi graduates and providing training, offering competitive packages to qualified Saudi professionals, or balancing team composition with Saudi nationals in other roles to meet overall quotas.

Can we hire Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia without establishing a legal entity?

Yes, companies can hire quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia without establishing a legal entity by using an Employer of Record (EOR) service like Asanify. The EOR legally employs the quantity surveyors on your behalf while you maintain control over their daily work and professional output. This approach eliminates the need for entity registration, minimum capital requirements, and complex compliance management, allowing you to quickly access Saudi quantity surveying talent with minimal administrative burden.

What are the key differences between hiring Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia versus other countries?

Hiring in Saudi Arabia involves several unique considerations: mandatory Arabic employment contracts, specific Saudization quotas, different working days (Sunday-Thursday), accommodation of religious practices including prayer times, distinctive benefits structures including housing allowances, mandatory end-of-service benefits calculated differently than Western severance, and government-regulated visa processes for expatriates. Cultural factors also play a significant role, with greater emphasis on relationship building and hierarchical business structures than in many Western countries.

How can we effectively onboard remote Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia?

Effective remote onboarding should include comprehensive documentation of project standards and processes, clear communication protocols that respect Saudi working hours and cultural practices, introduction to key stakeholders and team members through video conferencing, provision of necessary technical tools and access rights, regular check-ins during the initial weeks, assignment of a buddy or mentor, and cultural orientation sessions to bridge any gaps. Consider creating standardized templates for common deliverables to ensure consistency from the beginning.

What software skills should Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia possess?

Essential software skills include proficiency in specialized quantity surveying and cost estimation tools (such as CostX, WinQS, or CATO), competence with BIM applications (particularly Revit and Navisworks) for digital quantity take-off, experience with project management software like Primavera P6 or MS Project, advanced Excel skills for complex cost analyses, and familiarity with document management systems. For senior roles, experience with enterprise resource planning systems and executive reporting tools may also be valuable.

What are the working hours and weekend days in Saudi Arabia?

The standard workweek in Saudi Arabia runs from Sunday through Thursday, with Friday and Saturday being the weekend. Typical working hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with a one-hour break, totaling 40-48 hours per week as specified by Saudi labor law. During Ramadan, working hours are reduced to six hours daily for all employees regardless of religion. Many construction sites operate in shifts, and quantity surveyors may occasionally need to adjust their schedules to accommodate project demands.

How do we ensure compliance with Saudi labor laws when hiring Quantity Surveyors?

Ensuring compliance requires issuing Arabic employment contracts that meet statutory requirements, registering employees with the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI), adhering to Saudization quotas, providing all mandatory benefits including annual leave and end-of-service awards, respecting working hour limitations, and following proper termination procedures. Using Asanify’s Employer of Record services eliminates these compliance challenges as our local experts handle all aspects of labor law adherence while you focus on the professional management of your quantity surveying team.

What retention strategies work best for Quantity Surveyors in Saudi Arabia?

Effective retention strategies include offering competitive compensation packages that include strong housing allowances, providing clear career progression opportunities within your organization, supporting professional development and additional certifications, assigning varied and challenging projects that build expertise, recognizing achievements publicly, respecting work-life balance and cultural practices, and creating a positive team environment. Long-term retention often depends on combining financial incentives with professional growth opportunities and a supportive work culture.

Conclusion

Hiring quantity surveyors in Saudi Arabia offers global companies access to professionals with unique experience in mega-projects, regional construction practices, and multicultural project environments. As Saudi Arabia continues its ambitious Vision 2030 development plans, qualified quantity surveyors remain in high demand across commercial, residential, and infrastructure sectors.

While the hiring process involves navigating specific regulatory and cultural considerations, the benefits of accessing Saudi Arabia’s quantity surveying talent pool are substantial. Companies gain localized cost expertise, cultural insights, and professionals familiar with the region’s unique construction challenges.

For organizations without a legal presence in the Kingdom, Asanify’s Employer of Record services provide a streamlined solution to hire and manage quantity surveying talent compliantly. Our comprehensive approach handles all legal, payroll, and HR requirements while you maintain full control over your team’s day-to-day activities.

By following the best practices outlined in this guide and leveraging the right hiring model for your specific needs, your organization can successfully integrate Saudi quantity surveying expertise into your projects, driving cost efficiency and project success in the region and beyond.

Not to be considered as tax, legal, financial or HR advice. Regulations change over time so please consult a lawyer, accountant or Labour Law expert for specific guidance.