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Saudia is undergoing the most aggressive transformation in its history. With the launch of the new “Green” rebrand and the focus on tourism, the airline is expanding its fleet and workforce. While Riyadh Air (the new competitor) is grabbing headlines, Saudia remains the operational giant based in Jeddah (HQ) with a growing dual-hub in Riyadh.
For job seekers, the “Golden Era” is here. The airline is actively hiring Expat Pilots to fly its wide-body fleet while aggressively recruiting Saudi Nationals for Cabin Crew and Ground Operations.
The “Saudia” Reality: Nationalization vs. Expertise
Your passport and gender define your path:
1. The “Saudi First” Mandate (Cabin Crew & Ground)
- Female Cabin Crew: In a historic shift, Saudia now actively recruits Saudi women for cabin crew roles. The requirements are strict (English proficiency via STEP test), but the package is premium.
- Ground Ops: Roles like Check-in Agents, Dispatchers, and Admin are 100% focused on Saudization.
- The Program: The S.O.A.R Program is the elite graduate scheme for Saudi nationals, fast-tracking them into future leadership roles.
2. The Expat Opportunities (Technical)
- Pilots: High demand for Captains and First Officers (especially for B777 and B787 fleets). They recruit globally for these specialized roles.
- MRO (Saudia Technic): While pushing for local technicians, they still hire specialized Expat Licensed Engineers (B1/B2) for complex heavy maintenance.
3. The New Hub Dynamic
- Jeddah (JED): Remains the primary HQ and operational heart. Most “Saudia Technic” jobs are here.
- Riyadh (RUH): Growing rapidly. Crew bases are expanding here to support the capital’s growth.
Latest Group Vacancy List (2026)
Vacancies are split between the Airline and the Technic arm.
Flight Operations (The Cockpit)
- Captain (Widebody): Commanding B787/B777. Requirements: 5000+ total hours.
- First Officer: Supporting the flight deck. (Type rating often required for expats).
- Flight Attendant (Saudi Female): The new face of Saudi hospitality. Must pass the English assessment (STEP score 72+).
Saudia Technic (Maintenance)
- Avionics Technician: Repairing complex flight computers and sensors.
- Powerplant Engineer: Specializing in GE and Rolls-Royce jet engines.
- Supply Chain Officer: Managing the millions of spare parts needed to keep the fleet flying.
Corporate & Digital (Jeddah HQ)
- Revenue Management Analyst: Optimizing ticket prices using AI tools.
- Digital Product Owner: Improving the Saudia mobile app and website.
- Guest Experience Manager: Redesigning the in-flight dining and entertainment.
Salary & Benefits (Estimates)
Saudia offers a competitive, tax-free package with excellent travel perks.
| Job Role | Nationality | Estimated Monthly Salary (SAR) |
| Cabin Crew (Fresh) | Saudi | 8,000 – 12,000 (Base + Flying Pay) |
| First Officer | Expat | 22,000 – 32,000 |
| Captain (Widebody) | Expat | 50,000 – 75,000+ |
| Aircraft Mechanic | Saudi/Expat | 10,000 – 16,000 |
| Ground Admin | Saudi | 6,000 – 9,000 |
| S.O.A.R Graduate | Saudi | 14,000 – 16,000 |
Key Employee Perks:
- Tickets: Generous free and discounted tickets (ID90/ID50) on Saudia and SkyTeam partners (Delta, Air France, etc.).
- Medical: Top-tier insurance (often Bupa or Tawuniya) for staff and dependents.
- Job Security: Being a semi-government entity, job security for nationals is extremely high.
Eligibility Checklist
- For Cabin Crew:
- Age: 20–30 years.
- Reach: Minimum arm reach of 212 cm (on tiptoes).
- English: Must score 72+ on the QIYAS STEP test.
- For Pilots:
- License: Valid ATPL/CPL recognized by GACA (Saudi Civil Aviation).
- Medical: Class 1 Medical Certificate.
- For Technic:
- License: GACA or EASA Part 66 License is mandatory for “Certifying Staff.”
How to Apply Online?
Saudia has upgraded to a modern SAP-based portal.
- Saudia Airline Portal:
- Visit careers.saudia.com.
- Tip: This is for Pilots, Cabin Crew, and Corporate roles.
- Saudia Technic Portal:
- Visit careers.saudiatechnic.com.
- Focus here for Engineering, Mechanic, and Logistics roles.
- S.O.A.R Program (Graduates):
- Watch for the specific “S.O.A.R” banners on the career site. This opens usually once a year (Q1 or Q3).
Scam Warning:
- Red Flag: “Job Offers” sent via WhatsApp asking for SAR 2,000 for “Visa Processing” or “Uniform Fees.”
- Fact: Saudia NEVER charges a fee. Recruitment is done face-to-face or via official video interviews.
