What is PMP Certification and Why Should You Pursue It in Saudi Arabia?
The PMP certification is awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and is recognized globally. It certifies that you have the experience, education, and competency to lead and direct projects.
Key Benefits of PMP Certification in Saudi Arabia
- High Earning Potential: PMP-certified professionals in KSA earn considerably more than non-certified project managers.
- Increased Job Opportunities: With the surge in infrastructure and technology projects under Saudi Vision 2030, PMP certification is highly demanded.
- Industry Recognition: The PMP credential is recognized internationally, allowing you to work in diverse industries and regions.
Eligibility Criteria for PMP Certification in Saudi Arabia
Before applying for the PMP exam, make sure you meet one of the following eligibility conditions:Option 1: Bachelor’s Degree Holders
- ✔ Education: A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- ✔ Experience: A minimum of 36 months (3 years) of project management experience
- ✔ Training: At least 35 hours of project management education or a CAPM certification
Option 2: Diploma/High School Degree Holders
- ✔ Education: A high school diploma or associate degree
- ✔ Experience: At least 60 months (5 years) of project management experience
- ✔ Training: At least 35 hours of project management education or CAPM
Tip: Your experience doesn’t need to be in the title of a project manager, but your work should involve leading projects.
How to Apply for PMP Certification in Saudi Arabia
Follow these steps to apply for the PMP exam:
Step 1: Register on PMI Website
1. Go to the PMI official website and create an account.
2. After logging in, choose “Apply for PMP Certification” to begin your application.
Step 2: Fill Out Your Application
✔ Provide details on your educational background and project management experience.
✔ Enter the number of projects you have worked on and your roles.
✔ Include proof of 35 hours of project management education (training certificates).
Step 3: Pay the PMP Exam Fee
✔ PMI Members: $405 USD
✔ Non-Members: $555 USD
✔ PMI Membership: $139 USD annually (optional but saves $150 on exam fees).
Step 4: Schedule the PMP Exam
✔ Once your application is approved, you will receive an eligibility ID. Use it to schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, or take the exam online.
PMP Exam Content and Structure
The PMP exam is structured to assess your knowledge in three core areas:
Domain Weight (%) Topics Covered
People 42% Leadership, conflict management, team building
Process 50% Scheduling, cost management, risk assessment
Business Environment 8% Stakeholder management, governance, strategy
PMP Exam Format
• Number of Questions: 180 multiple-choice questions
• Duration: 230 minutes (3 hours, 50 minutes)
• Passing Score: PMI does not disclose the exact passing percentage, but it is generally estimated around 61-65%.
How to Prepare for the PMP Exam in Saudi Arabia
Effective study plans are crucial to passing the PMP exam. Here’s how you can prepare for the exam in Saudi Arabia:
Week 1: Familiarize Yourself with PMBOK Guide
- ✔ Study the PMBOK Guide (latest edition) and Rita Mulcahy’s PMP Exam Prep
- ✔ Start watching PMP video tutorials to understand key project management concepts
Week 2: Deep Dive into Each Domain
- ✔ Focus on the People and Process domains—they make up the majority of the exam.
- ✔ Use study guides and mock exams to test your understanding.
Week 3: Practice, Practice, Practice
- ✔ Take at least 2 full-length practice exams to get a feel for the actual exam environment.
- ✔ Focus on areas where you need improvement—whether it’s Agile methodologies, cost management, or stakeholder analysis.
Week 4: Final Review
- ✔ In the last week, review all your notes and formulas.
- ✔ Stay calm and ensure you’re well-rested on exam day.
Study Tip: Use PMP exam simulators to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and improve time management.
PMP Certification Costs in Saudi Arabia
Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with PMP certification:
- 1. PMI Membership Fee: $139/year (optional, but beneficial)
- 2. PMP Exam Fee (PMI Members): $405
- 3. PMP Exam Fee (Non-Members): $555
Additional Costs
• Study Materials: Expect to spend approximately $100-$200 for books and online courses.
• PMP Exam Simulators: Some of the best exam simulators range between $30-$100.
Job Opportunities and Salary After PMP Certification in KSA
Job Roles for PMP-Certified Professionals
- • Project Manager
- • Program Manager
- • Project Director
- • Portfolio Manager
PMP Salary in Saudi Arabia
- • Project Manager: SAR 20,000 - 40,000/month
- • Senior Project Manager: SAR 40,000 - 60,000/month
- • Program Manager: SAR 50,000 - 80,000/month
As KSA ramps up infrastructure and technology projects, companies such as Aramco, SABIC, NEOM, and other Vision 2030 initiatives are in high demand for PMP-certified professionals.
PMP Certification Renewal in Saudi Arabia
The PMP certification is valid for 3 years. To maintain your certification, you need to earn 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) during this period
How to Earn PDUs in Saudi Arabia:
- ✅ Participate in PMI KSA Chapter events
- ✅ Attend project management webinars and conferences
- ✅ Take additional online courses related to project management
Conclusion – Is PMP Certification Worth It in KSA?
For professionals in Saudi Arabia, the PMP certification offers career growth, higher salaries, and job stability. Given the country’s infrastructure boom and Vision 2030 objectives, PMP-certified professionals will have a competitive edge.
Ready to get started? Begin your PMP certification journey today and enhance your project management skills.
The exam fee is $405 for PMI members and $555 for non-members.
Preparation time varies, but most candidates spend 2-4 months studying.
Yes, you can retake the exam up to three times within one year of your application approval.
No, the PMP exam is a closed-book exam, and you are not allowed to bring any reference materials.
PMI does not officially disclose the passing score, but it is estimated to be around 61%-65%.
The PMP certification is valid for three years. To maintain it, you need to earn 60 PDUs within this period.
PDUs (Professional Development Units) are credits awarded for professional learning and development activities related to project management. You can earn them through courses, webinars, volunteering, and more.
Yes, PMP certification is highly respected and can significantly boost your career, salary, and project management skills.
Yes, PMI offers an online proctored exam option that allows you to take the PMP exam from home.
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