Saudi Arabia raises Saudization rate for 94 technical engineering roles to 35% in private sector

The Ministry of Human Resources has introduced a 35% Saudization requirement for 94 technical engineering positions in the private sector, set to commence on May 9, 2027. This decision, made jointly by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, is part of the broader strategy to localize specialized professions and boost the involvement of Saudi nationals in the labor market, in line with the Labor Market Strategy and Vision 2030.

The new rule applies to a broad spectrum of technical engineering roles, including civil, electrical, mechanical, electronic, surveying, and architectural drafting occupations, among others. All private sector entities employing at least five individuals in these fields are subject to the Saudization mandate, as outlined in the procedural guide.

To assist businesses in meeting this requirement, the Human Resources and Social Development system provides various incentives and support mechanisms, ranging from recruitment and training to job stability and priority access to Saudization support programs. The ministry has made the procedural guide publicly available on its website, providing comprehensive details on the affected professions, implementation procedures, Saudization calculation methods, and compliance requirements.