HRSD Ministry decides to raise Saudization rates in 269 private sector professions

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) announced a series of decisions to increase Saudization rates in 269 professions across various sectors.

This initiative is carried out in collaboration with supervisory entities such as the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs, and Housing.

In its statement on X, the ministry said these decisions include professions like dentistry, pharmacy, accounting, and technical engineering. These efforts aim to generate more stimulating and productive job opportunities for Saudi citizens throughout the Kingdom.

HRSD noted that the decision to raise Saudization rates in pharmacy professions will be implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Health starting July 23, 2025. The new rates will require 35% Saudization in community pharmacies and medical complexes, 65% in hospital pharmacy activities, and 55% in other pharmacy sectors. This decision applies to establishments with five or more workers in pharmacy-related professions.

The ministry also stated that the Saudization rate for dentistry professions will be increased in two phases. The first phase, starting July 23, 2025, requires a 45% Saudization rate, with the second phase reaching 55% 12 months later. This decision applies to establishments with three or more workers in dentistry professions. Additionally, the minimum salary for dentists to be counted within the Saudization quota was raised to SAR 9,000.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, HRSD will gradually raise Saudization rates in accounting professions over five phases spanning five years, starting from Oct. 22, 2025. The first phase requires a 40% Saudization rate for establishments with five or more accountants, with the rate gradually increasing to 70%.

The ministry also announced that the Saudization rate for technical engineering professions will be raised to 30%, effective July 23, 2025, in partnership with the Ministry of Municipal. This decision applies to all private sector establishments with five or more workers in technical engineering professions.

HRSD pointed out that it published procedural guidelines on its website, providing details of these decisions, including the methodology for calculating Saudization rates and penalties for non-compliance.

These decisions are part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to increase Saudization rates in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Labor Market Strategy, aiming to support national talent and enhance job opportunities in various sectors.