Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has expanded its Saudization program, mandating that 69 administrative support professions in the private sector be filled exclusively by Saudi nationals. The update, effective April 5th, is the latest move by the Kingdom to create more specialized job opportunities for its citizens within the private market.
Quick Facts
- 69 new professions added to Saudization list.
- Mandates 100% localization for targeted roles.
- Policy applies to all private sector firms.
- Enforced through a two-phase implementation.
A Two-Phase Rollout
The ministry has outlined a clear implementation timeline. A number of key roles were subject to immediate 100% Saudization from the date of the announcement. These include positions such as human resources clerk, translator, data entry operator, secretary, storekeeper, and personnel manager.
For the remaining 50 professions, the ministry has granted a six-month grace period. This list covers a broad range of specialized and managerial roles crucial to startup operations, including public relations specialist, recruitment specialist, compensation manager, talent manager, and cybersecurity human resources manager. This phased approach gives companies time to adjust their hiring strategies and talent pipelines.
Impact on the Private Sector
This directive applies to all private sector establishments with one or more employees in the specified roles, significantly impacting how startups and established companies build their administrative and operational teams. The ministry has urged all companies to comply with the updated procedural guide to avoid regulatory penalties.
The decision is part of a broader government strategy to boost local employment and equip the national workforce with valuable skills. To support this transition, the HRSD noted that private sector establishments will benefit from various support programs and incentives designed to encourage the hiring of Saudi citizens in these newly localized positions.
About The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) is a Saudi Arabian government body responsible for supervising labor and social affairs in the Kingdom. Its mandate includes setting labor policies, developing the national workforce, and creating a stable and attractive labor market in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Source: Zawya
