Young Saudis turn passion for car maintenance into promising careers

Saudi Arabia’s car maintenance sector is undergoing a major transformation as more young Saudis enter the field, turning their passion for automotive engineering into professional careers and promising investments. This shift is supported by training programs, government initiatives, and efforts to empower Saudis in technical and vocational professions, in line with the goals of Vision 2030.

The Technical and Vocational Training Corporation offers mechanical technology specializations, such as automotive mechanics and electrical systems, through two training stages: secondary diploma and intermediate diploma at technical colleges across the Kingdom. In the 1447 Hijri training year, more than 12,000 trainees enrolled in these programs, with over 2,000 graduates during the same period. Outstanding students also receive financial rewards and incentives.

Inspiring Saudi success stories

Engineer Mohammed Abdullah said his passion for cars began in childhood, later leading him to specialize academically in automotive mechanical engineering and gain over ten years of hands-on experience. He noted the sector’s growth in national talent, with young Saudis proving their competitiveness by offering professional services based on technical knowledge and the latest specialized equipment.

Technician Nasser Al-Nasser shared that he started by repairing family and friends’ cars at home before working for specialized companies and eventually opening his own workshop. He highlighted the rising demand for qualified technicians and the support for small and medium enterprises, which have encouraged more youth to enter the field. He noted that specialized technicians earn an average monthly income between 10,000 and 15,000 riyals (SAR), with higher earnings possible for workshop owners and specialists.

Similarly, engineer Mohammed Al-Zahrani said his interest in the profession began in high school, benefiting from his father’s experience and specialized studies. He emphasized the role of social media and digital platforms in facilitating learning and access to technical information. Al-Zahrani stressed that modern car maintenance requires electronic diagnostics and adherence to approved technical standards, making it essential to keep up with advances in electronic systems and software.

Training evolves to match new technologies

Engineer Mansour Mohammed Al-Thubaiti, an automotive mechanics instructor at the Royal Industrial Secondary Institute in Riyadh, explained that the car maintenance profession has changed significantly with the introduction of electronic systems and smart control units. This shift requires technicians to develop specialized skills in electronic diagnostics and the use of advanced testing devices. He added that updating training programs and partnering with organizations specializing in electric and hybrid vehicles helps prepare national talent for future technologies.

Al-Thubaiti noted that the sector is advancing further with the spread of electric vehicles and smart driving systems, which calls for greater focus on practical training and problem-solving skills. He emphasized that investing in qualified national talent is a key pillar for supporting the sector’s future in Saudi Arabia.

These successful Saudi examples highlight the importance of passion, ongoing training, and professional development in turning a hobby into a sustainable career and source of income. This trend reflects the Kingdom’s shift toward empowering its citizens in technical and vocational fields and strengthening the presence of local talent in the labor market.