Muhamad Thasveer Arafath Nov 21, 2025

Top 10 Project Management Certifications in Riyadh

Top project management certifications in Riyadh, like PMP (Project Management Professional), PRINCE2, CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management), PMI-ACP (Agile Certified Practitioner), and PgMP (Program Management Professional), are currently a career necessity for professionals in Saudi Arabia. The demand for qualified project managers continues to grow due to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. It focuses on mega developments in construction, information technology, healthcare, oil and gas, and leadership sectors of the government.

A recent graduate looking for a first job, a professional in the early stages of a career looking for a promotion, or a manager with experience aiming for senior management can all acquire the right PMP certification in Riyadh to steer their career in a positive direction.

This guide helps you identify the 10 most recommended project management certifications in Saudi Arabia. Let's also discuss career paths, earning potential, and the most relevant industries associated with each.

Top 10 Project Management Certifications in Riyadh

Let us take a look at the top 10 project management certifications that influence careers in Riyadh. Here are the 10 Project Management Certifications in Riyadh.

  1. PMP – Project Management Professional (PMI)

  2. PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner

  3. CAPM – Certified Associate in Project Management (PMI)

  4. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)

  5. PMI-ACP – Agile Certified Practitioner

  6. PgMP – Program Management Professional (PMI)

  7. PMI-RMP – Risk Management Professional

  8. Lean Six Sigma Certification (Green Belt / Black Belt)

  9. CompTIA Project+

  10. Certified Project Director (CPD)

 

1. PMP – Project Management Professional (PMI)

The PMP certification in Riyadh is one of the most recognised credentials worldwide. Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), it certifies your competence in managing and directing projects within any field. PMP is in great demand in Riyadh, particularly in sectors such as construction, oil and gas, information technology, and government services. High-value projects in Riyadh are supervised by PMP managers. Hence, Saudi companies recruit PMP-certified professionals in large numbers.

Edoxi is one of the most preferred institutions to take the PMP® Course in Riyadh. This PMP course is structured for professionals in any field who require management skills to improve their marketability. The PMP training program is designed according to the PMI exam content outline and will cover the necessary material to pass the PMP Certification exam.

Who it’s for:

  • Project Managers
  • Team Leaders and Supervisors
  • Engineers and Technical Professionals
  • IT Professionals
  • Construction and Civil Engineering Professionals
  • Healthcare, Finance, and Manufacturing Professionals

What it covers:

  • Project planning and execution
  • Risk management and cost control
  • Leadership and stakeholder communication

Job Roles After Completing PMP Certification in Riyadh

  • Project Manager
  • Senior Project Engineer
  • IT Project Manager
  • Program Manager

Average Salary of PMP-Certified Professionals in Riyadh

 

According to Indeed KSA, PMP professionals in Riyadh earn between SAR 25,000 – SAR 45,000 per month, depending on experience.

Skills Gained from PMP Certification

 
  • Advanced project leadership
  • Strategic decision-making
  • Risk & budget management
  • Agile and hybrid methodologies

Top Industries and Companies Hiring PMP Professionals in Riyadh

 
  • Construction: Saudi Binladin Group, Nesma & Partners
  • IT & Telecom: STC, Saudi Aramco Digital
  • Government: Vision 2030 projects, Public Investment Fund (PIF) initiatives
  • Healthcare: King Faisal Specialist Hospital, Ministry of Health

2. PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner

PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) is a UK-based certification, but it is also well recognized in Saudi Arabia. The PRINCE2 methodology for structured project management has been adopted by a good number of government and multinational organizations in Riyadh. You will have a competitive advantage in most project management jobs in Riyadh since a large number of government projects are executed in accordance with the PRINCE2 standards.

Who it’s for:

  • Beginners aiming to enter project management
  • Professionals working in government and public sector projects

What it covers:

  • Project governance and structured frameworks
  • Role-based project responsibilities
  • Effective monitoring and reporting

Job Roles After PRINCE2 Certification in Riyadh

 
  • Junior Project Manager
  • Project Coordinator
  • Government Project Officer

Average Salary

 

The annual salary for PRINCE2-certified professionals in Riyadh is approximately SAR 122,000 to SAR 264,000 for a Project Manager, according to Payscale data for Saudi Arabia

Skills Gained

 
  • Process-driven project control
  • Stakeholder management
  • Strong documentation skills

Industries Hiring in Riyadh

 
  • Government: Smart city and infrastructure projects
  • IT & Consulting: IBM, Accenture Saudi Arabia
  • Public Services: Healthcare and education projects

3. CAPM – Certified Associate in Project Management (PMI)

The CAPM credential is appropriate for new graduates or young professionals as it helps to gain basic project management skills. For companies focused on hiring fresh talent, CAPM is valuable for roles in project support.

Who it’s for:

  • Students, fresh graduates, and junior employees in Riyadh
  • Professionals aiming to transition into project management

What it covers:

  • Basics of project management frameworks
  • Project lifecycle understanding
  • Introduction to PMI standards

Job Roles After CAPM Certification

  • Project Coordinator
  • Assistant Project Manager
  • Junior Business Analyst

Average Salary

 

Data from Payscale indicates that the average annual salary of CAPM-certified professionals in Riyadh is SAR 40,000 for an Administration Assistant role and SAR 96,000 for a Project Specialist role. 

Skills Gained

 
  • Fundamentals of project scheduling
  • Budget and risk basics
  • Team coordination

Industries Hiring in Riyadh

 
  • Construction firms with junior project roles
  • IT companies hiring freshers with certification
  • Consulting firms offering entry-level PM roles

4. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)

The CSM certification is increasingly popular in Riyadh’s information technology and software sectors. Many Agile-adopting tech startups and IT departments in Riyadh consider a Scrum certification an important asset.

Who it’s for:

  • IT professionals
  • Software developers and testers
  • Agile project team members

What it covers:

  • Agile principles and Scrum framework
  • Roles of Scrum Master, Product Owner, and Development Team
  • Managing sprints and daily stand-ups

Job Roles After CSM Certification

  • Scrum Master
  • Agile Project Manager
  • Product Owner

Average Salary

 

Salary Expert indicates that the salary of CSM-certified professionals in Riyadh SAR 86,487 for a Customer Service Manager to SAR 45,000–SAR 85,000 monthly for general Scrum Master roles, and even higher for senior positions. 

Skills Gained

 
  • Agile project facilitation
  • Team collaboration techniques
  • Sprint planning and backlog refinement

Industries Hiring in Riyadh

 
  • IT & Software companies
  • Telecom & Digital transformation projects
  • E-commerce and Startups

5. PMI-ACP – Agile Certified Practitioner

PMI-ACP certification is for professionals who want to prove their skills in Agile methodology. Unlike the CSM certification, the PMI-ACP focuses on a variety of Agile techniques such as Kanban, Scrum, Lean, and XP.  Saudi Arabia’s rapid digital transformation, especially in the IT, telecom, and banking industries, makes the PMI-ACP certification a highly sought-after career move.

Who it’s for:

  • Mid-level IT professionals
  • Project managers moving into Agile environments

What it covers:

  • Agile frameworks and methodologies
  • Agile project leadership
  • Value-driven project delivery

Job Roles After PMI-ACP Certification

 
  • Agile Project Manager
  • Senior Scrum Master
  • Agile Coach

Average Salary

 

According to Payscale Saudi Arabia, the Salary of a PMI-ACP – Agile Certified Practitioner in Riyadh ranges from SAR 136k–320k for Senior Project Managers in IT, around SAR 340,000 for Program Managers in IT, and an average of SAR 324,000 for Project Managers across industries.

Skills Gained

 
  • Agile leadership
  • Kanban and Lean management
  • Continuous improvement techniques

Industries Hiring in Riyadh

 
  • IT & Software firms
  • Banking & Finance
  • Telecom and Smart City projects

“Become a Certified Project Management Professional

Join Edoxi Project Management Training to Learn the Best Practices!

6. PgMP – Program Management Professional (PMI)

The PgMP certification is well-suited for top-level managers who oversee numerous interrelated projects that fall under a singular program. With ongoing initiatives in the construction and oil & gas industries, as well as the development of smart cities, there is a need for certified program managers to help large-scale projects align with the goals of the nation.

Who it’s for:

  • Senior project managers
  • Portfolio managers and directors
  • Leaders handling strategic initiatives

What it covers:

  • Program governance and benefits realization
  • Resource allocation across multiple projects
  • Stakeholder alignment at executive levels

Job Roles After PgMP Certification in Riyadh

 
  • Program Manager
  • PMO Director
  • Strategic Initiatives Manager

Average Salary

 

According to Unichrone, the Salary of a PgMP – Program Management Professional (PMI) in Riyadh ranges from SAR 35,000 to SAR 60,000 per month.

Skills Gained

 
  • Advanced leadership and governance
  • Multi-project resource management
  • Risk management at the program level

Industries Hiring in Riyadh

 
  • Government mega-projects (NEOM, Vision 2030 initiatives)
  • Construction & Infrastructure firms
  • Energy and Oil & Gas corporations

7. PMI-RMP – Risk Management Professional

Every project involves uncertainty. The PMI-RMP certification equips professionals to identify, apply, and control risks effectively. Organizations working on critical infrastructure and financial projects count on RMP-certified professionals to mitigate risks and protect investments. To join this job role, you can start with a PMI-RMP - Risk Management Professional certification

Who it’s for:

  • Mid to senior-level project managers
  • Risk managers and analysts
  • Professionals in high-risk industries

What it covers:

  • Risk identification and analysis
  • Risk response strategies
  • Monitoring and reporting frameworks

Job Roles After PMI-RMP Certification

 
  • Risk Manager
  • Project Risk Analyst
  • Senior Project Consultant

Average Salary

 

PMI suggests the average annual salary for a PMI-RMP (Risk Management Professional) in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, is estimated to be around SAR 371,000 per year 

Skills Gained

 
  • Advanced risk analysis
  • Preventive planning
  • Crisis management strategies

Industries Hiring in Riyadh

 
  • Oil & Gas companies
  • Banking & Finance sector
  • Construction firms handling mega projects

8. Lean Six Sigma Certification (Green Belt / Black Belt)

Lean Six Sigma signifies process improvement that champions both value and quality in a given service or product. Currently, these methodologies are being adopted in the digital transformation and operational excellence initiatives being implemented in the manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries. Hence, having the Lean Six Sigma Certification can make you sought after in the job market.

Who it’s for:

  • Quality assurance professionals
  • Engineers and process managers
  • Project managers in operational roles

What it covers:

  • Waste reduction and efficiency improvement
  • Statistical analysis and problem-solving
  • Process optimisation techniques

Job Roles After Lean Six Sigma Certification

 
  • Process Improvement Manager
  • Quality Control Specialist
  • Operational Excellence Consultant

Average Salary

 

In Riyadh, the salary for Lean Six Sigma professionals ranges from SAR 158,000 annually for a Green Belt to SAR 249,000 or more for a Black Belt. (Skillogic)

Skills Gained

 
  • Process optimization
  • Data-driven decision-making
  • Lean project execution

Industries Hiring in Riyadh

  • Healthcare (hospitals, clinics)
  • Manufacturing industries
  • Service and operations companies

9. CompTIA Project+

CompTIA Project+ is an entry-level certification for IT and business project professionals. For those starting their careers, it is an ideal choice. It covers the fundamentals for those managing small to medium-sized projects.

Who it’s for:

  • Fresh graduates and beginners in project management
  • IT professionals managing smaller projects

What it covers:

  • Fundamentals of project initiation and planning
  • Communication and stakeholder management
  • Project documentation and closure

Job Roles After CompTIA Project+

 
  • Junior Project Manager
  • Project Analyst
  • Project Support Officer

Average Salary

 

Payscale suggests the average annual salary for a CompTIA Project+ professional in Riyadh is estimated to be around SAR 51,000 per year 

Skills Gained

 
  • Basics of project scheduling
  • Effective communication
  • Risk and issue tracking

Industries Hiring in Riyadh

  • IT startups and SMEs
  • Business services companies
  • Entry-level roles in project support

10. Certified Project Director (CPD)

The Certified Project Director (CPD) is designed for seasoned leaders who manage strategic initiatives and high-level project portfolios. CPD-certified leaders are currently pivotal in steering success with the Kingdom’s investments in mega infrastructure and economic diversification projects.

Who it’s for:

  • Senior executives
  • Directors and program heads
  • Experienced project managers aiming for leadership roles

What it covers:

  • Strategic project management
  • Enterprise-level decision making
  • Portfolio governance

Job Roles After CPD Certification

  • Project Director
  • Portfolio Manager
  • Executive Program Leader

Average Salary

 

The average salary for a Project Director in Riyadh is approximately SAR 59,000 per month, according to GulfTalent.

Skills Gained

 
  • Enterprise-level governance
  • Strategic execution planning
  • Cross-industry leadership

Industries Hiring in Riyadh

 
  • Government strategic projects
  • Energy & Oil sector
  • Global consulting firms

Career Pathways After Project Management Certifications in Riyadh

Project management offers a progressive career ladder in Riyadh. Certifications accelerate growth at every stage:

  • Entry-Level (CAPM, CompTIA Project+): Project Coordinator, Junior Project Analyst
  • Mid-Level (PMP, PRINCE2, CSM, PMI-ACP): Project Manager, Agile Project Manager, Senior Engineer
  • Senior-Level (PgMP, CPD, PMI-RMP, Lean Six Sigma): Program Manager, PMO Director, Portfolio Manager, Executive Leader

To know more, we suggest you explore the article 10 Highest Paying Project Management Jobs in 2025.

Start Your Project Management Career Journey in Riyadh Today

Project management certifications in Riyadh offer the opportunity for global employment, high income, and executive roles. Integrated Vision 2030 initiatives are complemented by infrastructure, healthcare, and technology projects and placed certified Riyadh professionals at the forefront. Project management entails meeting the goals and objectives of a project within set timelines and a budget, which is why possessing a project management certification is highly advantageous.

If you are just getting started, the CAPM and CompTIA Project+ certifications are great options to help you get started on the right foot. For project management professionals looking to strengthen their skills, the PMP, PRINCE2, and PMI-ACP certifications will help you learn how to manage and lead intricate projects and diverse teams. Finally, for those who are looking to consolidate their position in senior management, the PgMP, Lean Six Sigma, and CPD certifications will position you as a senior strategic leader with the ability to oversee and control multi-billion-dollar business programs.

 

Do You Aspire to Work in Project Management?

Join Edoxi Project Management Training to Learn the Best Practices!

 

Locations Where Edoxi Offers PMP Course

Here is the list of other major locations where Edoxi offers PMP Course

PMP Certification in Dubai | PMP Certification in Qatar | PMP Certification in Muscat | PMP Certification in London | PMP Certification in Amsterdam

 

FAQs

1. Which project management certification is best in Riyadh for beginners?

The CAPM and CompTIA Project+ are ideal for fresh graduates and beginners.

2. Is PMP certification worth it in Riyadh?

Yes, PMP is one of the most sought certifications, and it comes with a significant salary increase and the opportunity to grow in your career.

3. Which industries in Riyadh hire the most project managers?

The construction, IT, oil & gas, healthcare and government sectors are the most prominent industries.

4. What is the average salary of a certified project manager in Riyadh?

Project managers in Riyadh earn certified salaries, depending on the certification, between SAR 18,000 and SAR 60,000 monthly.

5. Can project management certifications help me move abroad?

Yes, certifications like PMP, PRINCE2, and PgMP will certainly help you move internationally.

Project Management Consultant and Trainer

Muhamad Thasveer Arafath is an engineer with a post-graduation MBA who possesses 20+ years of industry work experience in Project Management. To name a few of his area expertise, he has worked in various multi-million construction/development projects and programs in the UAE concerning project planning, project controls, project advisory/valuations, as a project lead, etc. 

Muhamad is currently a project management consultant and trainer specializing in Project Management Institute (PMI) certifications. He has now completed training for  65+  batches for various PMI certifications, holding an excellent passing rate among his training participants. 

He holds eight certifications from PMI and is an Award winner from the PMI UAE Chapter in 2019/2020 for being the member with the highest number of PMI certifications in UAE. He is certified from PMI in PfMP, PgMP, PMP, RMP, SP, SP, PBA and CAPM. He is also a Fellow of the Indian Institute of Valuers (FIIV).

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