Respectful, pious, prosperous, forward-thinking. Dynamically developed and traditionally conservative. This is exactly what Saudi Arabia is.
Saudi Arabia has great opportunities for development. Especially given the economic growth under the Vision 2023 initiative. But you need to be able to take advantage of these prospects. If you are a foreign chef, you may be interested in considering Saudi Arabia as a country that offers great prospects for professional growth. And you should take advantage of it!
As the hospitality industry continues to grow in the kingdom, the demand for professional chefs in Saudi Arabia continues to increase. New fine dining restaurants and hotels open in Saudi Arabia every year. The best chefs enjoy a generous social package that includes subsidies for housing, healthcare, and children’s education.
So, if you are considering moving to Saudi Arabia as a chef, plan carefully. You will need to learn more about the culture, laws, and working conditions in Saudi Arabia, as well as familiarize yourself with the labor market. Which cities offer the most jobs? What are the salaries? What are the working conditions? All this can be found on the relevant platforms. One of the most popular is Layboard.
Below, we will talk about the key aspects that should be considered by those who plan to move to Saudi Arabia and learn to work in one of the local kitchens.
1. Understanding the culinary landscape
Saudi cuisine reflects the rich history and cultural diversity of the Arabian Peninsula. With deep-rooted traditions and a unique blend of spices and flavors, the country’s cuisine has a distinctive flavor. Whether you are visiting or moving to Saudi Arabia, understanding the local cuisine is important for everyone, but especially for chefs who want to work in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia is a traditionalist country. Here cultural and religious norms dictate the pace and nature of everyday life. This is especially true in the kitchen. Many restaurants and hotels serve international cuisine, but with cultural sensitivity.
Chefs must respect local customs. Many Muslim countries and communities follow dietary laws and serve food that is religiously and ethically acceptable. Therefore, knowing how to adapt your food to these requirements will set you apart as a versatile chef who respects other peoples’ cultures.
2. Labor market in Saudi Arabia
Finding a job in Saudi Arabia for a foreigner requires patience, research, and a strategic approach. The kingdom’s hospitality industry is developing rapidly, so there are many vacancies for chefs looking for work.
There are several cities in Saudi Arabia with elite restaurants and hotels, a large tourist flow, and high incomes. In particular, these are Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, Jeddah, Dammam, Mecca and Medina.
The most interesting is Jeddah. Working as a chef in Jeddah is an opportunity to live by the sea, do what you love, and earn good money. It is a large port city on the Red Sea coast. It is known for its cosmopolitan character. Jeddah is a powerful tourist center of the kingdom. It mainly serves international cuisine, especially in hotels and restaurants near the coast.
If you are looking for a chef job in Jeddah, you can expect a monthly salary of $1,500 to $2,500, depending on the level and establishment. You can find work in upscale restaurants and chain establishments, which are numerous in Jeddah.
3. Working environment and salary
Chefsseeking to gain a foothold in the Saudi job market must have a strong portfolio of proven experience in international and Middle Eastern cuisine. Target up scale hotels, resorts, and gourmet restaurants. These establishments are often looking for talented chefs with varied culinary experience. Working in Saudi Arabia offers competitive salaries, especially in the hospitality industry.
However, the work environment can be more rigid and conservative than in many Western countries, and adapting to the local culture is essential to success.
Chefs and cooks in upscale hotels and international restaurants can expect to earn $1,500 to $3,000 per month, depending on their experience level and establishment. Chef And Executive chefs in luxury hotels can earn much higher salaries, sometimes in excess of $5,000 per month.
If you choose Jeddah and are looking for a job as a chef here, keep in mind that while the salary is slightly lower than in Riyadh,the cost of living is also more affordable. In addition, Jeddah is known for its relaxed,cosmopolitan atmosphere, especially due to its proximity to the Red Sea.
Overall, most expatriates in Saudi Arabia report competitive salaries. The absence of income tax is a key advantage, allowing chefs to save a significant portion of their income.In Addition, many employers offer assistance with housing, transportation, and medical care.
4. Adapting to life in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers a unique working environment for expatriates, influenced by its cultural traditions, religious practices, and economic structure. Saudi Arabia is increasingly focused on diversifying its economy as part of its “Vision 2030” program and is actively recruiting expatriates to work in a variety of industries.
However, it should be recognized that success and recognition are hard work. Especially in industries where the public is accustomed to service, uniqueness, and diversity.
Living in Saudi Arabia as an expatriate is a series of challenges that involve knowing and following strict social rules. Saudi Arabia has a strong cultural herd mentality and religious roots. It is influenced by Islamic law (Sharia). This determines many aspects of daily life. Understanding and respecting these cultural norms is important for a successful stay in Saudi Arabia. Women, in particular, need to know the rules regarding public appearance and behavior.
However, the country is modernizing and recent reforms are makinglife easier for expatriates, offering more social freedom and leisure opportunities.
5. Language and communication
If you plan to work or live in Saudi Arabia, understanding the language and communication norms is important for both professional and social life.The official language is Arabic, but English is widely used in business, especially among foreigners.
However, to truly integrate into Saudi society and raise your social level, it is very beneficial to learn Arabic and know the local communication etiquette.
In the beginning, learning a few basic Arabic phrases will go a long way in improving your relationships with colleagues and customers. It will also help you respect the local culture.
Working as a chef in Saudi Arabia can be a valuable experience, both professionally and economically. With the right mindset, respect for culture, and a passion for cooking, expat chefs can thrive in the kingdom’s culinary industry.
