Design Director Salary in Riyadh, Riyadh
Riyadh is Saudi Arabia's largest city and the economic center, home to many corporate headquarters and government bodies. Compensation for senior design leaders varies across sectors such as finance, technology, and construction. Cost of living in the region is a factor in salary ranges.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
SAR168,000 to SAR216,000
Average (per year)
SAR192,000
Recent graduates with design management internships or small-team leadership experience start here.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
SAR216,000 to SAR276,000
Average (per year)
SAR246,000
Growing tech companies and large government projects offer these roles to those with solid portfolios and team management.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
SAR276,000 to SAR360,000
Average (per year)
SAR318,000
Senior directors oversee multiple teams, often for major Saudi firms or international consultancies with a Riyadh presence.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
SAR360,000+
Leads strategic design vision, oversees cross‑functional teams, and drives brand innovation at scale.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
SAR130 - SAR200
per hour
Mid-level
SAR200 - SAR300
per hour
Senior
SAR300 - SAR450
per hour