In a significant policy move, Saudi Arabia has expanded its Saudization programme, mandating 100% employment of Saudi nationals in 69 additional private sector roles, effective April 5, 2026.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) announced that the decision brings more professions under full localisation, particularly in administrative support functions such as secretarial work, translation, data entry, and related roles, aligned with the Unified Saudi Occupational Classification.
The requirement will apply to all establishments employing 1 or more workers in these roles. The ministry has also released a detailed procedural guide outlining job categories and implementation steps, urging companies to comply to avoid regulatory penalties.
The move is part of ongoing efforts to increase the participation of Saudi nationals in the private sector and localise specialised roles. Companies impacted by the new rules will have access to support programmes and incentives to help ease implementation.
Saudization is a government initiative aimed at boosting local employment by setting hiring targets across industries. The latest expansion builds on earlier measures announced in January.
Under those changes, Saudization in engineering roles will increase to 30%, with a minimum monthly salary of SR8,000 in private and non-profit sectors. Additionally, a 55% Saudization requirement for dental professions came into effect from January 27, covering 20 roles. This follows an earlier phase that introduced a 45% target from July 27, 2025, in coordination with the Ministry of Health.
The expanded mandate reflects Saudi Arabia’s continued focus on strengthening local workforce participation and reducing reliance on expatriate labour.
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