Freelancing in Saudi Arabia – Can Expats Do It?

 


Freelancing is one of the fastest-growing ways of working around the world. With the rise of remote jobs, digital platforms, and the global gig economy, more and more people are turning away from traditional employment. Instead of working 9 to 5 for a single employer, freelancers can choose their own projects, set flexible working hours, and work for clients from across the globe.

But what about Saudi Arabia? The Kingdom is transforming rapidly under Vision 2030, opening its economy and encouraging entrepreneurship. Many expats living here wonder if they can also take part in the freelancing trend. Can expatriates legally work as freelancers in Saudi Arabia? What are the opportunities and risks?

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything expats need to know about freelancing in Saudi Arabia.

What is Freelancing?

Before diving into the Saudi system, it’s important to understand what freelancing means. Freelancing is a form of self-employment where you:

  • Work independently without being tied to one employer.

  • Offer services to multiple clients at once.

  • Get paid per project, per hour, or per contract.

  • Often work online or remotely.

Globally, common freelance professions include:

  • Graphic design and illustration.

  • Content writing, blogging, and translation.

  • Software development and IT support.

  • Marketing, SEO, and social media management.

  • Consulting, coaching, and training.

The attraction of freelancing is clear—it gives workers more control over their income, clients, and lifestyle. But the rules in Saudi Arabia are different compared to Western countries.

Is Freelancing Legal in Saudi Arabia?

The legality of freelancing depends on whether you are a Saudi citizen or an expatriate.

  • For Saudi Citizens:
    Freelancing is fully recognized and encouraged. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has introduced a Freelance Work Permit (تصريح العمل الحر) that allows Saudis to work independently in over 120 approved professions. This permit even enables them to contribute to social insurance and receive certain government benefits.

  • For Expatriates:
    Freelancing is not officially legal. Under Saudi labor law, foreign workers are tied to their sponsor (kafeel). The sponsor’s name is listed on the iqama (residency permit), and the worker is only allowed to work for that employer. Doing any side jobs or freelance projects outside your sponsor’s approval is considered a violation of labor law.

This restriction creates challenges for expats who want to work independently in the Kingdom.

Why Freelancing is Restricted for Expats

Saudi Arabia has historically followed the kafala system, where expatriates’ employment and residency are linked to their sponsor. The reasons freelancing is restricted for expats include:

  1. Labor Market Regulation – The government closely monitors employment contracts to ensure compliance.

  2. Employer Responsibility – Sponsors are legally responsible for their expats, including salary payments, medical insurance, and legal protection.

  3. Saudization (Nitaqat Program) – The government prioritizes employing Saudi citizens, and unrestricted freelancing by expats could reduce opportunities for locals.

  4. Tax and Legal Oversight – Without official contracts, it becomes difficult to regulate income, taxes, and disputes.

In short, the system is designed to protect both workers and the local economy—but it limits the freedom of expats who wish to freelance.

What Options Do Expats Have?

Even though freelancing in Saudi Arabia is restricted, expats still find ways to work independently—some legal, some in a grey area. Here are the main options:

1. Freelance Through Your Employer

If your employer agrees, you might be able to provide services under their company name. For example, if you are a graphic designer, your employer can sign contracts with clients while you do the work. This way, you stay compliant.

2. Work With a Saudi Agency

Some expats partner with Saudi-owned companies or agencies. The Saudi company officially signs contracts with clients, while you provide the services. This can be a safer way to freelance, although it usually involves profit-sharing.

3. Online Freelancing for International Clients

Many expats quietly take freelance jobs for international clients through platforms like:

  • Upwork

  • Fiverr

  • Freelancer.com

  • Toptal

  • PeoplePerHour

Since the work is done online for companies outside Saudi Arabia, it is harder for local authorities to monitor. Payments are typically received via PayPal, Payoneer, Wise, or bank transfers. However, this remains a grey area, especially if your employer is unaware.

4. Start Your Own Business

Some expats choose to set up their own businesses in Saudi Arabia. To do this, you usually need a Saudi partner who owns 51% of the company, although there are exceptions for investors. This allows you to legally provide freelance-style services under your own company’s name.

Risks of Freelancing Without Permission

If you decide to freelance without proper approval, you should be aware of the risks:

  • Iqama Violations: Working outside your sponsor’s approval is against the law.

  • Fines: Both you and the company hiring you may face penalties.

  • Deportation: In serious cases, expats caught freelancing illegally may be deported.

  • Unpaid Work: Without legal protection, clients may refuse to pay you, and you cannot file a complaint.

Therefore, it’s important to carefully weigh the risks before taking freelance jobs while in Saudi Arabia.

Growing Demand for Freelancers in Saudi Arabia

Despite the restrictions, the demand for freelance-style services is booming in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, and both businesses and individuals often need specialized skills on a short-term basis.

Some of the most in-demand freelance skills in Saudi Arabia include:

  • Graphic design, branding, and animation.

  • Website and app development.

  • Digital marketing and SEO services.

  • Social media content creation.

  • Copywriting, translation, and editing.

  • Photography and videography.

  • Tutoring and online training.

If freelancing is officially opened up to expats in the future, these areas will provide huge opportunities.

How Saudis Apply for a Freelance Work Permit

To better understand the system, here’s how Saudi nationals currently apply for a freelance license:

  1. Visit the official HRSD freelance platform.

  2. Choose your profession from the list of approved jobs.

  3. Submit your documents (national ID, qualifications, portfolio).

  4. Pay the licensing fee.

  5. Receive your Freelance Work Permit.

This license allows Saudis to work with multiple clients, issue invoices, and even register for social insurance.

At the moment, this process is not available to expats, but it’s possible that the government may expand it in the future.

Will Expats Be Allowed to Freelance in the Future?

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a huge transformation under Vision 2030. The government is encouraging entrepreneurship, remote work, and digital innovation. In recent years, we’ve seen major reforms in labor laws, such as easing restrictions under the kafala system.

There is ongoing discussion that the freelance license program may eventually be extended to expatriates, especially in technical, digital, and creative fields where global talent is essential.

So while freelancing for expats is restricted today, the future may look very different.

FAQs About Freelancing in Saudi Arabia

1. Can I freelance while employed full-time in Saudi Arabia?
No, you can only work for your sponsor unless your employer gives you special permission.

2. Can I freelance online for international clients from Saudi Arabia?
Yes, many expats do this, but it remains a grey area legally.

3. What happens if I get caught freelancing without permission?
You could face fines, iqama cancellation, or even deportation.

4. Are there legal alternatives for expats?
Yes. You can partner with a Saudi company, work under your employer’s approval, or open a business with a Saudi partner.

Final Thoughts

So, can expats freelance in Saudi Arabia?

  • Officially, no—freelancing without a sponsor’s approval is against the law.

  • Unofficially, many expats do find ways—by working online for international clients, partnering with Saudi agencies, or starting businesses.

  • The future looks promising—with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia may expand freelance opportunities to expats.

If you are an expatriate in Saudi Arabia, it’s important to stay compliant with the law while also keeping an eye on upcoming reforms. Freelancing may soon become a legal option for expats, opening new doors to independence and opportunity.

How to Renew Your Iqama Easily in Saudi Arabia

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GOSI (Social Insurance) – What Expats Need to Know

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