Saudi Arabia sits at a critical maritime crossroads between the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. Its location is pivotal for global shipping routes like the Suez Canal, making the shipbuilding and repair industry crucial for regional and international trade.
The Saudi government is investing heavily in expanding its maritime sector as part of its Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy beyond oil. This includes developing shipyards, ports, and maritime logistics, creating many new job opportunities.
Saudi Arabia is building advanced shipbuilding facilities and dry docks, like the King Salman Naval Academy and the Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu shipyards. Working here means access to cutting-edge technology and large-scale industrial projects.
The Saudi economy offers relatively stable and well-paying jobs in the industrial sectors. Jobs in shipbuilding and ship machinery often come with attractive salary packages, benefits, and allowances, especially for skilled professionals and engineers.
The industry is technical and specialized, offering continuous learning and career advancement opportunities. You can develop expertise in engineering, welding, naval architecture, machinery maintenance, and project management.
With a push to localize the maritime industry, the government encourages Saudization (employment of Saudi nationals) and offers incentives for training and hiring local talent, which means more chances for career growth and development.
Saudi Arabia’s shipbuilding industry often works with international companies and experts, exposing you to global best practices, standards, and innovations in maritime technology.
Strategic Maritime Location: Access to vital global shipping lanes, fostering a booming shipbuilding and repair industry.
Mega Projects: Vision 2030 is driving massive investments in infrastructure, ports, and naval capabilities.
Innovation Focus: Increasing adoption of advanced ship machinery, eco-friendly propulsion systems, and smart ship technologies.
Tax and Benefits: Competitive compensation packages, tax-free income for many expats, and high standards of living.
Shipbuilding Engineers: Skilled in structural design, hull fabrication, and ship assembly.
Marine Machinery Experts: Proficient in propulsion systems, engine maintenance, and power plants.
Naval Architects: Experts in hydrodynamics, stability, and vessel optimization.
Project Managers & Quality Inspectors: Professionals with experience managing shipbuilding timelines, safety standards, and regulatory compliance.
Construction and retrofitting of commercial vessels, oil tankers, and naval ships.
Installation and servicing of state-of-the-art marine engines and machinery.
Innovative projects in green shipping, including LNG-powered vessels and hybrid propulsion.
Collaborations with global maritime technology companies and local shipyards.
Dynamic cities like Jeddah, Dammam, and Jubail offer a blend of modern amenities and rich cultural heritage.
Access to world-class infrastructure, healthcare, and international schools.
A welcoming expat community and opportunities for family relocation support.
Design and develop ship structures, hulls, and superstructures.
Perform hydrodynamic analysis and stability calculations.
Ensure vessel designs meet international safety and performance standards.
Oversee installation, operation, and maintenance of ship propulsion systems.
Manage power generation, HVAC, and auxiliary machinery onboard vessels.
Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical marine machinery issues.
Coordinate all phases of shipbuilding from design through delivery.
Manage budgets, schedules, and subcontractors.
Ensure compliance with regulatory, safety, and quality standards.
Perform welding and metal fabrication for hull sections and ship components.
Work with various metals and advanced fabrication techniques.
Ensure structural integrity and adherence to engineering specifications.
Conduct routine maintenance and repairs on marine engines and onboard machinery.
Monitor engine performance and conduct diagnostic tests.
Replace faulty parts and carry out overhauls.
Inspect materials, components, and completed work for quality assurance.
Verify compliance with standards such as ABS, DNV, or Lloyd’s Register.
Document inspections and recommend corrective actions.
Use CAD software to create detailed shipbuilding plans and machinery layouts.
Collaborate with engineers and architects to finalize design specifications.
Produce 3D models and technical drawings for manufacturing.
Design, install, and maintain electrical systems onboard ships.
Work on navigation, communication, and automation systems.
Handle troubleshooting and upgrades of electrical equipment.
Develop and enforce health and safety protocols in shipyards.
Conduct safety audits, training, and risk assessments.
Ensure compliance with OSHA or local maritime safety regulations.
Manage procurement of ship components and materials.
Coordinate delivery schedules and inventory management.
Liaise with suppliers, manufacturers, and shipyard teams.
Perform fluid dynamics simulations and model ship-water interactions.
Optimize hull forms for fuel efficiency and speed.
Collaborate with naval architects to improve vessel design.
Inspect vessels for seaworthiness, condition, and regulatory compliance.
Conduct damage assessments and prepare reports.
Certify ships for insurance and registration.
Job Profile |
Avg. Salary (SAR) |
Avg. Salary (USD) |
Avg. Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1. Naval Architect |
250,000 SAR |
66,700 USD |
5,600,000 INR |
|
2. Marine Engineer |
220,000 SAR |
58,700 USD |
4,930,000 INR |
|
3. Shipbuilding Project Manager |
280,000 SAR |
74,700 USD |
6,270,000 INR |
|
4. Welding & Fabrication Specialist |
140,000 SAR |
37,300 USD |
3,130,000 INR |
|
5. Marine Machinery Technician |
130,000 SAR |
34,700 USD |
2,910,000 INR |
|
6. Quality Control Inspector |
160,000 SAR |
42,700 USD |
3,580,000 INR |
|
7. Ship Designer (CAD Specialist) |
180,000 SAR |
48,000 USD |
4,030,000 INR |
|
8. Marine Electrical Engineer |
210,000 SAR |
56,000 USD |
4,700,000 INR |
|
9. Shipyard Safety Officer |
150,000 SAR |
40,000 USD |
3,360,000 INR |
|
10. Supply Chain & Logistics Coordinator |
170,000 SAR |
45,300 USD |
3,810,000 INR |
|
11. Hydrodynamics Specialist |
230,000 SAR |
60,900 USD |
5,120,000 INR |
|
12. Marine Surveyor |
200,000 SAR |
53,300 USD |
4,480,000 INR |
|
13. Ship Fitter |
120,000 SAR |
32,000 USD |
2,690,000 INR |
|
14. Marine CAD Technician |
140,000 SAR |
37,300 USD |
3,130,000 INR |
|
15. Hull Maintenance Supervisor |
155,000 SAR |
41,300 USD |
3,470,000 INR |
|
16. Marine Diesel Mechanic |
125,000 SAR |
33,300 USD |
2,800,000 INR |
|
17. Ship Electrician |
130,000 SAR |
34,700 USD |
2,910,000 INR |
|
18. Paint Technician |
110,000 SAR |
29,300 USD |
2,460,000 INR |
|
19. Shipyard Foreman |
165,000 SAR |
44,000 USD |
3,690,000 INR |
|
20. Marine HVAC Technician |
135,000 SAR |
36,000 USD |
3,020,000 INR |
To work legally in Saudi Arabia, you need a work visa (Iqama) sponsored by a Saudi employer.
Your employer must be registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD).
Typically, you cannot apply independently; you need a job offer first.
Relevant qualifications in marine engineering, naval architecture, mechanical engineering, or shipbuilding technology are essential.
Experience with ship machinery, maintenance, and construction is highly valued.
Certifications related to marine safety, welding, or mechanical systems can improve eligibility.
Proficiency in English is often required; knowledge of Arabic is a plus but not mandatory.
Saudi Arabia has a nationalization policy called Nitaqat, encouraging companies to hire Saudi nationals first.
However, specialized or technical roles, like shipbuilding experts, often still require foreign talent due to local skill shortages.
Employers must justify hiring foreigners under these rules.
You must pass a medical test, including screening for communicable diseases, to get a work visa.
Medical clearance is mandatory before visa issuance.
A valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
Clean criminal record in many cases.
No previous visa violations or bans in Saudi Arabia.
Shipbuilding and ship machinery jobs in Saudi Arabia often require compliance with industrial safety standards.
You may need to attend safety training specific to the maritime and heavy machinery sectors.
Major shipyards and companies like Saudi Aramco, Bahri (National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia), and private ship repair yards.
International contractors working on maritime projects.
Job Title |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
1. Naval Architect |
Design ship structures, ensure stability and seaworthiness, oversee ship construction and repair projects. |
|
2. Marine Engineer |
Design, develop, and maintain ship machinery systems like engines, propulsion, and HVAC. |
|
3. Shipyard Supervisor |
Manage daily operations at the shipyard, coordinate teams, and ensure safety and quality standards. |
|
4. Welding Engineer |
Develop welding procedures, inspect weld quality, and ensure compliance with standards. |
|
5. Mechanical Engineer |
Handle machinery installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting in shipbuilding projects. |
|
6. Electrical Engineer |
Design and maintain electrical systems on ships, including power generation and lighting. |
|
7. Pipefitter/Plumber |
Install and maintain piping systems for fuel, water, and hydraulic systems on vessels. |
|
8. Quality Control Inspector |
Inspect materials and workmanship to meet shipbuilding standards and specifications. |
|
9. Safety Officer |
Enforce health and safety regulations, conduct safety training, and manage incident reporting. |
|
10. Project Manager |
Oversee shipbuilding projects, manage budgets, schedules, and coordination between departments. |
|
11. Draftsman/CAD Technician |
Prepare technical drawings and blueprints for ship components and assemblies. |
|
12. Marine Surveyor |
Inspect ships and machinery for compliance, survey damage, and certify seaworthiness. |
|
13. Ship Fitter |
Assemble ship structural parts, fit sections together, and assist with alignment during construction. |
|
14. Maintenance Technician |
Perform routine maintenance and repairs on ship machinery and equipment. |
|
15. Crane Operator |
Operate cranes for lifting heavy ship components during construction or repair. |
|
16. HVAC Technician |
Install and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems on ships. |
|
17. Marine Electrician |
Install and repair electrical wiring and control systems specific to maritime environments. |
|
18. Logistics Coordinator |
Manage supply chain, coordinate delivery of parts and materials to the shipyard. |
|
19. Material Planner |
Plan procurement and inventory control of shipbuilding materials and spare parts. |
|
20. Technical Superintendent |
Oversee technical aspects of ship machinery maintenance and repairs, ensure operational efficiency. |
Job Title |
General Job Eligibility |
|---|---|
|
1. Naval Architect |
Bachelor’s in Naval Architecture/Marine Engineering; 3+ years ship design experience; English proficiency; work visa required |
|
2. Marine Engineer |
Degree in Mechanical/Marine Engineering; experience with marine machinery; certification in marine systems preferred |
|
3. Shipyard Supervisor |
Technical diploma or degree; 5+ years in shipyard operations; leadership skills; knowledge of safety standards |
|
4. Welding Engineer |
Welding certification (e.g., AWS); experience in shipbuilding welding; quality inspection skills |
|
5. Mechanical Engineer |
Degree in Mechanical Engineering; experience in heavy machinery maintenance; knowledge of ship propulsion systems |
|
6. Electrical Engineer |
Degree in Electrical Engineering; experience in marine electrical systems; knowledge of electrical safety codes |
|
7. Pipefitter/Plumber |
Technical diploma or apprenticeship; experience with shipboard piping; ability to read technical drawings |
|
8. Quality Control Inspector |
Experience in inspection/testing; knowledge of shipbuilding standards; certification in quality control (ISO, etc.) |
|
9. Safety Officer |
Certification in occupational health & safety (NEBOSH, OSHA); experience in industrial/maritime safety |
|
10. Project Manager |
Degree in Engineering/Management; 5+ years project management; PMP certification preferred; strong communication skills |
|
11. Draftsman/CAD Technician |
Diploma in drafting/CAD; proficiency in AutoCAD or similar software; experience in ship design drafting |
|
12. Marine Surveyor |
Certification as Marine Surveyor; knowledge of maritime laws; experience in ship inspection and surveys |
|
13. Ship Fitter |
Trade qualification; experience in metal fitting/assembly; ability to work with large structures |
|
14. Maintenance Technician |
Technical diploma; experience in mechanical/electrical maintenance on ships; problem-solving skills |
|
15. Crane Operator |
Certified crane operator license; experience in heavy lifting; knowledge of shipyard safety protocols |
|
16. HVAC Technician |
Certification in HVAC; experience installing/repairing marine HVAC systems; knowledge of environmental standards |
|
17. Marine Electrician |
Electrical license; experience in marine electrical systems; ability to read schematics and wiring diagrams |
|
18. Logistics Coordinator |
Diploma/degree in logistics or supply chain; experience in procurement and inventory; good organizational skills |
|
19. Material Planner |
Degree/diploma in supply chain management; experience in inventory planning; proficiency in ERP software |
|
20. Technical Superintendent |
Degree in Engineering; extensive ship machinery maintenance experience; leadership and coordination skills |
Job Profile |
Typical Experience Required |
|---|---|
|
Naval Architect |
3 to 7+ years in ship design and construction projects |
|
Marine Engineer |
3 to 6 years working with marine machinery and propulsion systems |
|
Shipyard Supervisor |
5+ years in shipyard operations, including supervisory or leadership roles |
|
Welding Engineer |
3 to 5 years of welding and inspection experience in shipbuilding |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
3 to 6 years in mechanical systems related to ships or heavy machinery |
|
Electrical Engineer |
3 to 5 years in marine or industrial electrical systems |
|
Pipefitter/Plumber |
3 to 5 years in ship piping or related fields |
|
Quality Control Inspector |
2 to 5 years in quality assurance/inspection within shipbuilding |
|
Safety Officer |
3 to 7 years in industrial or maritime safety roles |
|
Project Manager |
5 to 10+ years managing large technical or shipbuilding projects |
|
Draftsman/CAD Technician |
2 to 5 years in ship design drafting |
|
Marine Surveyor |
5+ years in marine inspection and surveying |
|
Ship Fitter |
3 to 6 years in metal fitting and assembly work in shipyards |
|
Maintenance Technician |
3 to 5 years in machinery maintenance and repair |
|
Crane Operator |
2 to 5 years operating cranes, preferably in shipyards or heavy industries |
|
HVAC Technician |
3 to 5 years working on HVAC systems, preferably marine-specific |
|
Marine Electrician |
3 to 6 years in marine electrical system installation and repair |
|
Logistics Coordinator |
3 to 6 years in logistics, supply chain, or procurement |
|
Material Planner |
3 to 5 years in inventory and materials planning |
|
Technical Superintendent |
7+ years in ship machinery maintenance and supervisory roles |
Company Name |
Description |
Typical Roles for International Candidates |
|---|---|---|
|
Saudi Aramco |
National oil company with extensive marine operations including shipbuilding and maintenance. |
Marine Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Welders, Safety Officers |
|
Bahri (National Shipping Co.) |
Saudi Arabia's largest shipping company managing oil, chemicals, and dry bulk transport fleets. |
Marine Engineers, Ship Surveyors, Electrical Engineers, Project Managers |
|
Saudi Maritime & Logistic Co. |
Provides marine services including ship repair and shipbuilding support. |
Shipyard Supervisors, Welders, Quality Inspectors |
|
King Abdullah Port (KAP) |
One of the largest ports, offering ship repair and related services. |
Ship Fitters, Pipefitters, Maintenance Technicians |
|
Saudi Arabian Shipbuilding Co. (SAS) |
Specialized shipbuilding and repair company. |
Naval Architects, Marine Engineers, Welding Engineers |
|
Al Khodari & Sons Co. |
Major construction and engineering company with maritime projects. |
Project Managers, Mechanical & Electrical Engineers |
|
Gulf Marine Services |
Offshore support and marine engineering services provider. |
Marine Engineers, Technical Superintendents, Surveyors |
|
Al Jaber Shipbuilding |
Shipbuilding and repair company operating in Saudi and Gulf markets. |
Ship Fitters, Welders, Mechanical Technicians |
|
Saudi Binladin Group |
Large conglomerate involved in heavy industry and maritime projects. |
Project Managers, Engineers, Safety Officers |
|
Marafiq |
Utility and services provider for industrial and maritime sectors. |
Electrical Engineers, Maintenance Technicians |
|
Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) |
Regional shipbuilder often collaborating with Saudi projects. |
Naval Architects, Marine Engineers |
|
TechnipFMC |
Global oil & gas service provider active in Saudi marine projects. |
Project Engineers, Marine Technicians |
|
McDermott International |
Engineering and construction company active in Saudi Arabia's offshore and marine sectors. |
Project Managers, Mechanical Engineers |
|
Hyundai Heavy Industries (Saudi branch) |
Major shipbuilding corporation with operations in Saudi Arabia. |
Shipbuilding Engineers, Welders, Supervisors |
|
Drydocks World |
Ship repair and shipbuilding company with regional offices including Saudi Arabia. |
Marine Engineers, Electricians, Fitters |
Job Profile |
Average Salary (SAR/month) |
Job Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Naval Architect |
15,000 – 30,000 |
Bachelor’s in Naval Architecture, 3+ years exp. |
Saudi Aramco, SAS, ADSB |
Design ships, ensure stability, oversee construction projects |
|
Marine Engineer |
12,000 – 25,000 |
Mechanical/Marine Eng. degree, 3+ years exp. |
Bahri, Saudi Aramco, Gulf Marine Services |
Maintain ship machinery, propulsion, HVAC systems |
|
Shipyard Supervisor |
10,000 – 20,000 |
Diploma/degree, 5+ years exp. |
Saudi Maritime & Logistic, Al Jaber Shipbuilding |
Manage shipyard teams, ensure safety and quality control |
|
Welding Engineer |
9,000 – 18,000 |
Welding certification, 3+ years exp. |
SAS, Hyundai Heavy Industries |
Develop welding procedures, inspect weld quality |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
10,000 – 20,000 |
Mechanical Engineering degree, 3+ years exp. |
Saudi Aramco, McDermott International |
Machinery installation, maintenance, troubleshooting |
|
Electrical Engineer |
10,000 – 18,000 |
Electrical Engineering degree, 3+ years exp. |
Marafiq, Bahri, Gulf Marine Services |
Design & maintain electrical systems onboard |
|
Pipefitter/Plumber |
7,000 – 12,000 |
Technical diploma, 3+ years exp. |
King Abdullah Port, Al Jaber Shipbuilding |
Install and maintain piping systems on ships |
|
Quality Control Inspector |
8,000 – 14,000 |
Experience in QC, certification preferred |
Saudi Maritime & Logistic, SAS |
Inspect materials and workmanship, ensure compliance |
|
Safety Officer |
10,000 – 18,000 |
Safety certifications (NEBOSH/OSHA), 3+ years exp. |
Saudi Aramco, Saudi Binladin Group |
Enforce safety regulations, conduct training |
|
Project Manager |
15,000 – 30,000+ |
Engineering/Management degree, PMP preferred, 5+ yrs |
Saudi Aramco, McDermott, Al Khodari & Sons |
Oversee projects, manage budget/schedule, coordinate teams |
|
Draftsman/CAD Technician |
7,000 – 12,000 |
Diploma in drafting/CAD, 2+ years exp. |
SAS, Hyundai Heavy Industries |
Prepare technical drawings, blueprints |
|
Marine Surveyor |
12,000 – 22,000 |
Marine survey certification, 5+ years exp. |
Bahri, Saudi Aramco |
Inspect and certify ships and machinery |
|
Ship Fitter |
7,000 – 12,000 |
Trade qualification, 3+ years exp. |
King Abdullah Port, Al Jaber Shipbuilding |
Assemble ship structures, assist in fitting |
|
Maintenance Technician |
8,000 – 14,000 |
Technical diploma, 3+ years exp. |
Saudi Aramco, Marafiq |
Routine machinery maintenance and repairs |
|
Crane Operator |
6,000 – 11,000 |
Crane operator certification, 2+ years exp. |
SAS, King Abdullah Port |
Operate cranes for lifting heavy components |
|
HVAC Technician |
7,000 – 13,000 |
HVAC certification, 3+ years exp. |
Saudi Aramco, Al Jaber Shipbuilding |
Install and maintain HVAC systems onboard |
|
Marine Electrician |
8,000 – 15,000 |
Electrical license, 3+ years exp. |
Gulf Marine Services, Bahri |
Install and repair ship electrical systems |
|
Logistics Coordinator |
7,000 – 13,000 |
Diploma/degree in logistics, 3+ years exp. |
Saudi Maritime & Logistic, Bahri |
Manage supply chain, coordinate materials delivery |
|
Material Planner |
8,000 – 14,000 |
Degree/diploma in supply chain, 3+ years exp. |
Saudi Aramco, McDermott International |
Plan procurement and inventory control |
|
Technical Superintendent |
18,000 – 35,000 |
Engineering degree, 7+ years exp. |
Saudi Aramco, Gulf Marine Services |
Oversee machinery maintenance, ensure operational efficiency |
This is the most common visa for foreign workers coming to Saudi Arabia for shipbuilding and ship machinery jobs. Your employer in Saudi Arabia must sponsor you by obtaining a work permit. After approval, you will receive an employment visa, which allows you to legally work in the country. This visa is typically valid for 1-2 years and can be renewed.
If you are visiting Saudi Arabia temporarily for short-term shipbuilding projects, business meetings, or machinery inspections, a business visa may be suitable. This visa does not allow you to work directly but permits business-related activities like negotiations or consultations.
If you are planning to start your own shipbuilding or ship machinery-related business in Saudi Arabia, the investor visa can be an option. This visa is granted to foreign investors who establish a company or invest in existing businesses in the shipbuilding sector.
In some cases, companies may bring in foreign specialists or technicians on a temporary basis for a specific shipbuilding project. The temporary work visa allows short-term work authorization and usually requires sponsorship from the Saudi company.
If you are already working for a multinational company with operations in Saudi Arabia, you might be eligible for an intra-company transfer visa. This allows you to be transferred to a branch or affiliate in Saudi Arabia without the full new visa process.
