Saudi Arabia is one of the large countries in the Middle East so are the opportunities to grow. They are large and reachable. While you’ve included Saudi Arabia in your consideration list, do not skip it. Though a large part of Saudi Arabia is desert, Saudi Arabia is considered one of the modern places in the Middle East. Working in Saudi Arabia can be very complementing and enriching, in terms of life, work and cultural experience. (Working Conditions in the Middle East)
Many people think of Saudi Arabia as a closed, extremely conservative country where they would never imagine going and living in. But if you ask those who have worked in Saudi Arabia for quite some time, they will tell you that the benefits are no less either.
Experienced Gulf expats will tell you that Saudi Arabia is still one of the most cost-effective countries to work. If your objective is to go to the Gulf, work there for few years, save a bundle of cash and then return home, then Saudi Arabia is the definite choice.
The life there may not be as colorful as Dubai, and they may not have a country-side as scenic and varied as Oman, but it has a mood very much of its own. Saudis, much like Americans, like to think BIG in everything. Therefore you will find everything, every place with huge spaces. Claustrophobia is difficult to find in Saudi Arabia. And, yes, if you are a Muslim, then what better place to work!
Unlike some other places in the Gulf, you should not think of Saudi Arabia as a long term / life-long destination. Saudi government has an aggressive policy of inducting the national workforce in the mainstream. Therefore many expats who had been working in cushy, “secure” job for many years suddenly found out one day that they were being asked to train a local graduate who will then take over his position after few months or so.
While it was traumatizing for those individuals, I believe that, like every human, Saudis have a right to be given preference in their home country. Therefore the new, educated Saudi workforce is becoming more and more visible. My advice for the expats: Don’t fret. Face the reality. Its easier when you are expecting it. Don’t plan a lifetime employment in Saudi Arabia. Go there, make good money, enjoy fancy vacations or use the savings for building your assets in your preferred location. Plan your return or next destination in advance, and then move on.
Though the Saudi Arabian government has recently reduced the number of foreigners working in the country, there are still plenty of employment opportunities available in Saudi Arabia. In fact, there are still quite a number of foreigners who wish to live and work in Saudi Arabia, regardless the new regulations from the local government. The top two most wanted jobs in Saudi Arabia are teaching and health care positions. (Doing Business in Middle East)
Source: Gulf job sites
