Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia

Checkout the Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia....

Standyou Team
Standyou Team

Apr 04, 2025 11:00:41

Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia for International Students


Top Universities Offering Master’s in Project Management in Saudi Arabia

1. Prince Sultan University (PSU) – Riyadh

  • Program: MSc in Engineering Management (with a focus on Project Management)

  • Language: English

  • Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field

  • International Student Friendly: Yes

2. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran

  • Program: MSc in Construction Engineering & Project Management

  • Language: English

  • Eligibility: Engineering or related background required

  • International Student Friendly: Yes, offers scholarships

3. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah

  • Program: MBA with a specialization in Project Management

  • Language: English

  • Eligibility: Bachelor’s in Business, Engineering, or related fields

  • International Student Friendly: Yes, offers scholarships for international students

4. Alfaisal University – Riyadh

  • Program: MBA with a concentration in Project Management

  • Language: English

  • Eligibility: Requires GMAT/GRE in some cases

  • International Student Friendly: Yes

5. Dar Al-Hekma University – Jeddah (Women’s University)

  • Program: MBA with a specialization in Project Management

  • Language: English

  • International Student Friendly: Yes


Admission Requirements for International Students

Most universities require the following:
 Bachelor’s Degree (preferably in Business, Engineering, or a related field)
 English Proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL)
 Work Experience (sometimes preferred but not always required)
 GMAT/GRE (for some MBA programs)
 Student Visa (sponsored by the university)


Tuition Fees & Scholarships

  • Tuition fees range from SAR 50,000–120,000 ($13,000–$32,000) depending on the university and program.

  • Scholarships and funding options are available for high-achieving international students at universities like KAU and KFUPM.


Why Study Project Management in Saudi Arabia?

 Growing Economy: Saudi Arabia has a booming economy with massive projects under Vision 2030.
 High Demand: Project managers are needed in construction, oil & gas, IT, and business sectors.
 International Exposure: Many universities offer globally recognized degrees.
 

Universities in Saudi Arabia


Universities Offering Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia


1. Prince Sultan University (PSU) – Riyadh

  • Program: MSc in Engineering Management (Project Management focus)

  • Language: English

  • Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field

  • International Student Friendly: Yes

2. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran

  • Program: MSc in Construction Engineering & Project Management

  • Language: English

  • Eligibility: Engineering or related background

  • International Student Friendly: Yes, offers scholarships

3. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah

  • Program: MBA with a specialization in Project Management

  • Language: English

  • Eligibility: Bachelor's in Business, Engineering, or related fields

  • International Student Friendly: Yes, offers scholarships

4. Alfaisal University – Riyadh

  • Program: MBA with a concentration in Project Management

  • Language: English

  • Eligibility: Requires GMAT/GRE in some cases

  • International Student Friendly: Yes

5. Dar Al-Hekma University – Jeddah (Women’s University)

  • Program: MBA with a specialization in Project Management

  • Language: English

  • International Student Friendly: Yes

6. Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University – Dammam

  • Program: MSc in Project Management

  • Language: English

  • International Student Friendly: Yes
     

Study in Saudi Arabia


Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia


1. Academic Requirements

 Bachelor’s Degree

  • Must be in a related field such as Business, Engineering, Management, or a relevant discipline.

  • Some universities accept students from other backgrounds but may require prerequisite courses.
     Minimum GPA Requirement

  • Most universities require a minimum GPA of 2.75–3.0 out of 4.0 (or equivalent).

  • Some top universities (e.g., KFUPM) may require a higher GPA.


2. English Language Proficiency

 TOEFL (IBT: 70–80) or IELTS (6.0–6.5)

  • Required for non-native English speakers.

  • Some universities waive this if your bachelor’s degree was in English.


3. Entrance Exams (Varies by University)

 GMAT/GRE (For some MBA programs)

  • Required by some universities like Alfaisal University for MBA programs.

  • Not always required for MSc or MPM degrees.


4. Work Experience (Preferred but Not Always Required)

Some universities prefer applicants with 1–2 years of work experience, especially for MBA programs.
Fresh graduates may still apply, especially for MSc programs.


5. Letters of Recommendation

 Two or more recommendation letters (from professors or employers).
Required by most universities, especially research-based programs.


6. Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement

Explaining why you want to study Project Management, your career goals, and why you chose that university.


7. Interview (For Some Universities)

Some universities may conduct an online or in-person interview.


8. Student Visa Requirements

If accepted, international students need to apply for a Student Visa (Iqama) with sponsorship from the university.
 

Business, Management & Economics in Saudi Arabia


Course Duration of Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia


1. Full-Time Programs

 Duration: 1.5 to 2 years (3 to 4 semesters)
 Common in: MSc in Project Management, MBA with Project Management specialization


2. Part-Time Programs

 Duration: 2 to 3 years (for working professionals)
 Available at: Some universities like Prince Sultan University (PSU) and Alfaisal University offer evening or weekend classes for part-time students.


3. Executive or Accelerated Programs

 Duration: 1 year (fast-track option)
 Available at: Some MBA programs allow students to complete the degree in 12 to 18 months if they take extra courses per semester.
 

MBA in Saudi Arabia


Online Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia


1. Saudi Electronic University (SEU) – Riyadh

 Program: Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Project Management Track
 Mode: Fully Online / Blended (Hybrid)
 Language: English
 Duration: 1.5 to 2 years
 Eligibility:

  • Bachelor's degree (any field)

  • English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 70)

  • No work experience required
     Why Choose SEU?

  • Government-recognized and accredited

  • Flexible study schedule for working professionals


2. Alfaisal University – Riyadh

 Program: MBA with a specialization in Project Management
 Mode: Hybrid (Online & On-Campus)
 Language: English
 Duration: 1.5 to 2 years
 Eligibility:

  • Bachelor's degree (preferably in Business or Engineering)

  • GMAT/GRE (may be required)

  • Work experience preferred
     Why Choose Alfaisal?

  • One of the top universities in Saudi Arabia

  • Offers evening and online classes


3. Prince Sultan University (PSU) – Riyadh

 Program: MSc in Engineering Management (Project Management focus)
 Mode: Hybrid (Online & Evening Classes)
 Language: English
 Duration: 2 years
 Eligibility:

  • Bachelor's in Engineering, Business, or related field

  • Work experience preferred
     Why Choose PSU?

  • Highly ranked in Saudi Arabia

  • Strong industry connections


4. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah

 Program: MBA with a concentration in Project Management
 Mode: Online / Hybrid
 Language: English
 Duration: 2 years
 Eligibility:

  • Bachelor's degree

  • English proficiency required
     Why Choose KAU?

  • Offers scholarships for international students

  • Government-funded university
     

Masters in Business Analytics in Saudi Arabia


Intakes & Application Deadlines for Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia


1. Main Intakes

 Fall Intake (September/October)

  • Application period: February – June

  • Most popular intake, with more available seats and scholarship opportunities.

 Spring Intake (January/February)

  • Application period: September – November

  • Fewer available seats compared to Fall intake.

 Summer Intake (May/June) (Limited Availability)

  • Only a few universities offer summer intake, mainly for part-time or executive programs.


2. University-Specific Deadlines (Approximate)

 Prince Sultan University (PSU)

  • Fall intake: Applications close by May/June

  • Spring intake: Applications close by November

 King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM)

  • Fall intake: Applications close by March/April

  • Spring intake: Applications close by September/October

 King Abdulaziz University (KAU)

  • Fall intake: Applications close by May

  • Spring intake: Applications close by November

  • Offers scholarships for international students, apply early!

 Alfaisal University

  • Fall intake: Applications close by June/July

  • Spring intake: Applications close by November/December

 Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University

  • Fall intake: Applications close by March/April

  • Spring intake: Applications close by October/November

 

Tuition Fees for Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia


1. Tuition Fees by University

University

Program Type

Tuition Fees (SAR)

Tuition Fees (USD)

Prince Sultan University (PSU)

MSc in Engineering Management (Project Mgmt.)

90,000 – 120,000 SAR

$24,000 – $32,000

King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM)

MSc in Construction Engineering & Project Mgmt.

40,000 – 80,000 SAR

$10,500 – $21,000

King Abdulaziz University (KAU)

MBA with Project Management Specialization

Fully Funded (Scholarships Available)

-

Alfaisal University

MBA with Project Management Specialization

110,000 – 130,000 SAR

$29,000 – $35,000

Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University

MSc in Project Management

60,000 – 90,000 SAR

$16,000 – $24,000

Dar Al-Hekma University (Women’s University)

MBA with Project Management Specialization

80,000 – 100,000 SAR

$21,000 – $27,000


2. Additional Costs

 Application Fee: 200 – 500 SAR ($50 – $130)
 Student Visa Fees: ~3,000 SAR ($800)
 Living Expenses: ~30,000 – 50,000 SAR per year ($8,000 – $13,000)


3. Scholarships & Funding

 King Abdulaziz University (KAU): Fully funded scholarships for international students.
 King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM): Merit-based scholarships covering tuition and stipend.
 Other Universities: Some offer partial scholarships or financial aid based on merit.


Cost of doing Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia


1. Tuition Fees (Varies by University & Program Type)

University

Program Type

Tuition Fees (SAR)

Tuition Fees (USD)

Prince Sultan University (PSU)

MSc in Engineering Management (Project Mgmt.)

90,000 – 120,000 SAR

$24,000 – $32,000

King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM)

MSc in Construction Engineering & Project Mgmt.

40,000 – 80,000 SAR

$10,500 – $21,000

King Abdulaziz University (KAU)

MBA with Project Management Specialization

Fully Funded (Scholarships Available)

-

Alfaisal University

MBA with Project Management Specialization

110,000 – 130,000 SAR

$29,000 – $35,000

Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University

MSc in Project Management

60,000 – 90,000 SAR

$16,000 – $24,000

Dar Al-Hekma University (Women’s University)

MBA with Project Management Specialization

80,000 – 100,000 SAR

$21,000 – $27,000


 Average Tuition Fees:

  • Public universities: 40,000 – 80,000 SAR ($10,500 – $21,000)

  • Private universities: 90,000 – 130,000 SAR ($24,000 – $35,000)

  • Fully funded scholarships available at KAU & KFUPM


2. Living Expenses in Saudi Arabia (Estimated per year)

Expense

Cost (SAR per year)

Cost (USD per year)

Accommodation (University dorm/private rental)

18,000 – 40,000

$4,800 – $10,500

Food & Groceries

9,000 – 15,000

$2,400 – $4,000

Transport (Public/Private)

3,000 – 8,000

$800 – $2,100

Health Insurance

2,500 – 6,000

$670 – $1,600

Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Internet, etc.)

5,000 – 10,000

$1,300 – $2,600

Total Estimated Living Costs

35,000 – 80,000 SAR

$9,500 – $21,000

 Average Monthly Living Cost: 3,000 – 6,500 SAR ($800 – $1,700)
 Affordable Cities: Dammam, Al Khobar, and Jeddah (compared to Riyadh)


3. Additional Costs

 Application Fee: 200 – 500 SAR ($50 – $130)
 Student Visa & Iqama: ~3,000 SAR ($800)
 Books & Study Materials: 1,000 – 3,000 SAR ($270 – $800)


4. Total Estimated Cost (for 1.5 – 2 Years Program)

Category

Public University (SAR/USD)

Private University (SAR/USD)

Tuition Fees

40,000 – 80,000 SAR ($10,500 – $21,000)

90,000 – 130,000 SAR ($24,000 – $35,000)

Living Expenses

35,000 – 80,000 SAR ($9,500 – $21,000)

35,000 – 80,000 SAR ($9,500 – $21,000)

Other Expenses

6,000 – 12,000 SAR ($1,600 – $3,200)

6,000 – 12,000 SAR ($1,600 – $3,200)

Total Cost (2 Years)

81,000 – 172,000 SAR ($21,600 – $45,200)

131,000 – 222,000 SAR ($35,000 – $59,200)


5. Scholarships & Funding Options

 King Abdulaziz University (KAU): Full scholarships covering tuition, living costs, and stipend.
 King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM): Scholarships available for top students.
 Prince Sultan University & Alfaisal University: Partial scholarships based on merit.


Admission Process for Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia


1. Research & Choose a University

Identify universities offering an MPM, MSc in Project Management, or MBA with a Project Management specialization.
Consider tuition fees, scholarships, accreditation, and admission deadlines.


2. Check Eligibility Requirements

Most universities require:
 Bachelor’s Degree (Business, Engineering, or a related field)
 Minimum GPA (Usually 2.75 – 3.0 out of 4.0 or equivalent)
 English Proficiency (TOEFL iBT: 70–80 or IELTS: 6.0–6.5 unless the previous degree was in English)
 Work Experience (Preferred but not always required)
 GMAT/GRE (Some universities, like Alfaisal University, may require it for MBA programs)


3. Prepare Required Documents

 Academic Transcripts & Degree Certificate (Attested copies)
 English Proficiency Test Score (TOEFL/IELTS)
 Statement of Purpose (SOP) (1–2 pages explaining your goals)
 Letters of Recommendation (At least two, from professors or employers)
 Updated CV/Resume (Highlighting education and work experience)
 Passport Copy (For international students)
 Application Fee Payment Receipt


4. Submit Online Application

Most universities have an online application portal where you submit documents and pay the application fee (200–500 SAR / $50–$130).
Some universities require hard copies of documents to be sent by courier.


5. Attend an Interview (If Required)

Some universities may conduct an online or in-person interview as part of the selection process.
This is more common for MBA programs than MSc degrees.


6. Receive Admission Offer & Pay Tuition Deposit

If accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter via email.
Some universities require a deposit payment to secure your place.


7. Apply for Student Visa (Iqama)

The university usually sponsors your student visa (Iqama).
Required documents for a visa:

  • University acceptance letter

  • Medical checkup certificate

  • Financial proof (if self-funded)

  • Police clearance certificate (for some universities)


8. Travel to Saudi Arabia & Enroll

Once your visa is approved, book your flight and arrange accommodation.
Attend orientation and register for courses at your university.


Application Deadlines

  • Fall Intake (September/October): Apply between February – June

  • Spring Intake (January/February): Apply between September – November


Scholarships for doing Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia


1. Fully Funded Scholarships

King Abdulaziz University (KAU) Scholarship (Jeddah)

 Covers:

  • Full tuition fees

  • Monthly stipend (900 – 1,200 SAR)

  • Free accommodation

  • Health insurance

  • Travel expenses (airfare to and from home country)
     Eligibility:

  • Bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0

  • English proficiency (TOEFL iBT ≥ 70 or IELTS ≥ 6.0)

  • Age limit: 35 years (for master’s applicants)
     Application Deadlines: December – March


King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) Scholarship (Dhahran)

 Covers:

  • Full tuition fees

  • Monthly stipend

  • Free accommodation

  • Free medical care

  • Travel expenses
     Eligibility:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related fields

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0

  • GRE/GMAT (preferred but not mandatory)
     Application Deadlines: September & March


Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship (Multiple Universities in Saudi Arabia)

 Covers:

  • Full tuition fees

  • Monthly stipend

  • Medical insurance

  • Return airfare ticket
     Eligibility:

  • Citizens of IsDB member countries

  • Admission to an accredited university in Saudi Arabia
     Application Deadlines: January – February


2. Partial Scholarships & Financial Aid

Alfaisal University Merit-Based Scholarships (Riyadh)

 Covers:

  • 25% – 50% tuition fee reduction

  • Based on academic merit and GRE/GMAT scores
     Eligibility:

  • Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0

  • English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL required)
     Application Deadlines: May – July


Prince Sultan University (PSU) Postgraduate Scholarships (Riyadh)

 Covers:

  • Up to 50% tuition waiver for international students
     Eligibility:

  • Strong academic record

  • Work experience preferred (for MBA programs)
     Application Deadlines: Rolling admissions (apply early for scholarship consideration)


3. Government & External Scholarships

Saudi Government Scholarship (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Scholarship Program)

 Covers:

  • Full tuition fees

  • Monthly stipend

  • Accommodation and health insurance
     Eligibility:

  • Open to students from developing countries

  • Must be accepted at a Saudi university
     Application Deadlines: Varies by university


Career after Masters in Project Management in Saudi Arabia


1. High-Demand Industries for Project Managers in Saudi Arabia

Construction & Infrastructure

  • Key Employers: Saudi Aramco, Red Sea Global, NEOM, The Royal Commission

  • Roles: Project Manager, Construction Project Manager, Contracts Manager

  • Why? Massive developments like NEOM, The Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya

Oil & Gas / Energy

  • Key Employers: Saudi Aramco, SABIC, Ma’aden, ACWA Power

  • Roles: Energy Project Manager, Oil & Gas Project Manager, Risk Manager

  • Why? Saudi Arabia is a global leader in energy projects

IT & Technology

  • Key Employers: STC, Huawei Saudi Arabia, Oracle, Microsoft

  • Roles: IT Project Manager, Agile Project Manager, Digital Transformation Manager

  • Why? Rapid digital transformation under Vision 2030

Banking & Finance

  • Key Employers: Saudi National Bank (SNB), Riyad Bank, Al Rajhi Bank

  • Roles: Finance Project Manager, Risk & Compliance Manager

  • Why? Growth in fintech and banking modernization

Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals

  • Key Employers: Ministry of Health (MOH), King Faisal Specialist Hospital

  • Roles: Healthcare Project Manager, Hospital Development Manager

  • Why? Major investments in medical infrastructure and research


2. Job Titles & Salary Expectations

Job Role

Average Salary (SAR/month)

Average Salary (USD/year)

Project Manager

18,000 – 35,000 SAR

$58,000 – $112,000

Construction Project Manager

22,000 – 40,000 SAR

$70,000 – $128,000

IT Project Manager

20,000 – 38,000 SAR

$64,000 – $122,000

Oil & Gas Project Manager

25,000 – 50,000 SAR

$80,000 – $160,000

Healthcare Project Manager

18,000 – 30,000 SAR

$58,000 – $96,000

Risk & Compliance Manager

20,000 – 35,000 SAR

$64,000 – $112,000

 Entry-Level Salary: 12,000 – 18,000 SAR/month ($38,000 – $58,000 per year)
 Senior-Level Salary: 35,000 – 50,000 SAR/month ($112,000 – $160,000 per year)

 Higher salaries for PMP-certified professionals


3. Certifications to Boost Your Career in Saudi Arabia

 Project Management Professional (PMP) – High demand in construction & IT
 Certified Scrum Master (CSM) – Popular for Agile project managers
 PRINCE2 Certification – Preferred in government & corporate sectors
 Six Sigma Certification – Useful for process & quality management


4. Work Visa & Employment Process for International Students

If you study in Saudi Arabia, you can apply for a work visa after graduation.
Many companies offer expat contracts with housing, transport, and medical benefits.
 Government-backed projects (NEOM, Red Sea Global, etc.) actively hire international professionals.


5. Future Career Growth & Trends

 NEOM & Vision 2030 projects will create thousands of project management jobs.
 Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification will expand IT, finance, and healthcare project management roles.
 Global companies are setting up offices in Saudi Arabia, increasing demand for project managers.