The grace period for private sector companies in Saudi Arabia has officially ended, with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development now implementing two key decisions mandating increased Saudization rates for marketing and sales professions. The new regulations, which took effect on April 19, are designed to create more skilled job opportunities for Saudi nationals across the Kingdom.
Quick Facts
- 60% Saudization rate now required.
- Affects 20 specific marketing and sales jobs.
- SR 5,500 minimum wage for Saudi employees.
The New Rules for Private Sector Employers
The mandate requires private sector establishments with three or more employees in specified marketing and sales roles to ensure that at least 60% of these positions are filled by Saudi citizens.
To ensure the quality of these opportunities, a minimum wage of SR 5,500 has been set for Saudi employees in marketing professions to be included in the company’s Saudization quota calculation. The ministry has published procedural guides on its website detailing the implementation mechanisms and penalties for non-compliance.
Targeted Professions: Who is Affected?
The decision covers a wide range of critical commercial functions within an organization. Companies will need to review their staffing for the following 20 roles:
Marketing professions include: Marketing Manager, Marketing Specialist, Advertising Manager, Public Relations Manager, Advertising Agent, Public Relations Specialist, Advertising Specialist, Graphic Designer, Advertising Designer, and Photographer.
Sales professions include: Sales Manager, Retail Sales Representative, Wholesale Sales Representative, Sales Representative, Commercial Specialist, Goods Broker, IT and Communications Equipment Sales Specialist, and Sales Specialist.
About The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development is the Saudi Arabian government body responsible for setting and implementing labor policies, managing the labor market, and driving social development initiatives within the Kingdom. It plays a central role in executing the national Saudization program aimed at increasing employment opportunities for Saudi citizens.
Source: Zawya
