Human Resources: Localization of 69 professions within administrative support jobs
In a new strategic move aimed at enhancing the participation of Saudi nationals in the labor market, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced a significant update to the decision regarding the Saudization of administrative support positions in the private sector. Under this update, 69 new professions have been added to the list of occupations subject to 100% Saudization, with the decision taking effect on Monday, April 5, 2026.
General context and the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This decision comes as an extension of the Saudi government's tireless efforts to achieve the goals of Vision 2030, which prioritizes the empowerment of Saudi citizens. Since the launch of the Vision, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has implemented a series of targeted Saudization programs across various vital sectors, from retail and telecommunications to engineering, healthcare, and finance. This comprehensive strategy aims to reduce unemployment rates, increase the contribution of local talent to the national economy, and decrease reliance on expatriate workers in jobs that can be filled by qualified Saudi nationals.
Details of the added professions and the application mechanism
The Ministry clarified that the 69 added professions are based on the definitions and occupational titles adopted in the “Saudi Unified Classification of Occupations.” These additions encompass vital and essential fields within the corporate work environment, most notably: secretarial work, writing, translation, data entry, and various administrative support tasks. Further enhancing the comprehensiveness of this decision is its application to all private sector establishments employing one or more workers in these specific professions, thus ensuring a wide range of job opportunities for young Saudis across companies of all sizes, from micro-enterprises to large corporations.
Expected economic and local impact
The localization of administrative support positions is expected to have a tangible positive impact on the local economy. By reserving these positions exclusively for Saudi nationals, thousands of new job opportunities will be created, suitable for recent graduates and job seekers in administrative fields. This will also contribute to enhanced job stability, increased purchasing power for citizens, and support for the domestic economic cycle. Regionally and internationally, this approach reflects the Kingdom's commitment to building a flexible and sustainable labor market that relies on national talent and expertise, thereby enhancing the attractiveness and stability of the work environment.
Government support and incentives provided to establishments
To ensure the success of this decision and facilitate the transition for private sector companies, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has provided a comprehensive package of support and incentive programs. Establishments will be able to benefit from the support of the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF), which includes contributions towards recruitment costs, vocational training and qualification programs, and wage subsidies to ensure job stability for new employees. The Ministry has urged all employers to review the updated procedural guide on its official website, which details the implementation mechanisms, emphasizing the importance of compliance to avoid penalties and move forward towards building a prosperous and sustainable economy.
