UAE vs. Saudi Arabia: Why I left the UK

Over the past decade, our team has developed a deep understanding of the Middle Eastern landscape. With extensive experience in recruitment across the region, we've observed firsthand how the industry has evolved. But let's get real, this isn't just about numbers and fancy buzzwords. If you're considering packing up your life in the UK or Europe and making the move, here’s what you need to know - no fluff, just facts.

I’ve lived in both Dubai and Riyadh while working in construction. I moved at 23 and know exactly what it's like to be an expat finding their footing. From culture shock to work-life balance, I’ve seen it all. If you're considering the leap, here's what you need to know from someone who’s been there.

For years, Western media painted the Middle East as a land of keffiyeh-clad men in Land Cruisers doing doughnuts?branding?their?AK-47s. Wrong. Today, it's a powerhouse driven by oil-rich governments pouring trillions into development.

Saudi Arabia’s?Vision 2030?is investing?$3.3 trillion?into?FIFA,?NEOM and the Red Sea Project. The UAE’s?Vision 2040?aims to expand Dubai’s infrastructure and global appeal. The region boasts the world’s tallest buildings, fastest-growing economies, and top-tier hospitality.

Forget stereotypes; this is the future. If you're moving here, you're stepping into one of the most ambitious regions on the planet.

There was a time when moving to Dubai meant doubling your salary, living in a villa with a pool, and having your employer foot the bill for school fees, flights, and a relocation package fit for royalty. Those days? Pretty much gone. Salaries are maturing, the job market is tightening, and employers are no longer as generous as they once were.

Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, was the new kid on the block, offering ridiculous packages just to attract talent. It wasn’t unheard of for someone to go from earning AED 50,000 to AED 120,000 overnight. But now? The Kingdom has wised up. Salaries are capped at 30% increases, and companies want proof of your previous earnings. So, while the money is still great, it’s not the gold rush it once was.

Cost of Living: The Devil’s in the Details

Before you take the plunge, it’s worth checking out?Numbeo?for a reality check on cost of living. In my opinion, some parts of Dubai are still cheaper than London but getting pricier—especially rents, which have skyrocketed post-pandemic. Groceries? Affordable if you like local produce, but if you insist on Waitrose-level food, prepare to pay premium prices.

Saudi Arabia? It is equally, if not more expensive as Dubai, and imported goods will cost you. The expat lifestyle is still in flux, and Riyadh, while still developing, isn’t?quite as cosmopolitan as Dubai. But hey, if you’re saving 30-40% of your salary (compared to Dubai’s 10-20% and maybe 50% from the UK), that’s a game-changer. Riyadh is a growing city, and they're trying to keep up with the influx of people moving in. If you work for a giga project, your accommodation and basic needs can be accounted for, which makes life a lot easier.

However, if you plan to live independently in Riyadh, be prepared for high costs, especially when it comes to expat compounds, which are among the most expensive housing options available. These mixed-residence compounds provide a sense of community, but outside of them, navigating the city as a foreigner can be a different experience altogether (although opinions may vary).

The government is actively investing in infrastructure, entertainment, and amenities to make Riyadh more liveable for expatriates (Boulevard Riyadh City, Boulevard World, Riyadh Front, KAFD, etc.), but it still has some way to go before it matches the ease of living in Dubai.

How to Get in: The Smart Way vs. The Wild Way

Internal Transfers:?If your current employer has a presence in the Middle East, this is hands down the best way in. They bear the cost and handle the red tape, and you land with a proper visa, medical insurance, and maybe even school fees covered (some). Win-win.

High-Risk, High-Reward Approach:?Turning up in?the region?with your CV and hoping for the best? It used to work. Now, not so much. Companies have become pickier, and unless you have a strong network, getting hired without being on the ground is tough. If you’ve got a family, this approach is borderline reckless. But if you’re young, single, and can handle the uncertainty? Go for it.

Hybrid Approach: Working in Saudi, Living in Dubai

This is becoming the go-to move for many professionals. Saudi pays well but in my opinion doesn’t yet offer the same lifestyle comforts as the UAE (but it may get there soon). So, what do people do? Work in Saudi and keep the family in Dubai. Flights between the two are frequent, and if your employer covers the cost, it’s a solid deal. Your kids get Dubai’s more established education system, your partner gets an actual social life, and you get paid Saudi money. Not a bad trade-off.

More Expats, More Competition, More Challenges

With more professionals from Europe, Australia, and Asia moving in, salaries are stabilising. The market is no longer just for mid-career professionals; younger talent (20s and early 30s) is flooding in, willing to work for lower wages.

Stats show that Saudi’s workforce has grown by over 40% in the past few years, with a strong push to get locals into the market. Emiratisation and?Saudisation?mean there’s increasing pressure to hire locally. This creates fierce competition—companies want the best talent but also need to meet nationalisation quotas. If you’re an expat, your job has to justify its existence.

Final Thoughts: Where Should You Go?

It all depends on your priorities.

• Want a work-life balance??Dubai is still the winner.
• Want a massive salary boost??Saudi, but don’t expect the wild packages of five years ago.
• Have a family??Dubai is more established, but you can still work in Saudi and commute.
• Single and adventurous??Saudi could be the best financial decision you ever make.

Regardless of where you go, research is key. Talk to people who have already made the move, use?Numbeo?to compare costs (High level, could be outdated), and don’t just assume “tax-free” means rolling in money. The Middle East is still an incredible opportunity, but you need to play it smart.

You need to do your research,?understand how much it will cost to live, compose a good life, and, most importantly, save. After all, isn’t that why most of us move here? It’s also important to set a clear timeline. Is this a short-term career boost or a long-term relocation? The more you know, the better you can plan.

If you’re sending money back home, is international banking the best option? If you’ve got kids, which curriculum suits them best—British, IB, or American? These things matter. Plan, plan, plan. The more groundwork you do, the smoother your transition will be.

A Decade in the Middle East: No Regrets, Only Gratitude

Moving to the Middle East a decade ago was one of the best decisions I’ve made. The people, the culture, the opportunities, and the career growth have all contributed to an incredibly rewarding journey. The earning potential and professional advancement here have, in my view, placed me ahead of many of my UK counterparts.

Of course, my perspective may be biased; I’ve built a life here, formed strong friendships, and enjoy a well-balanced lifestyle. While the region isn’t for everyone, many have made it their home, and it continues to attract and retain top talent. The future is bright, and I look forward to seeing how it continues to evolve. Whatever your choice is, I hope my advice helps or gives you some guidance to make an informed decision.

Shyam Visavadia

Founder, WorkPanda