Implementation of the decision to localize procurement jobs at a rate of 70% in the Kingdom has begun
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in Saudi Arabia announced the implementation of a decision to Saudize up to 70% of procurement jobs in private sector establishments. This landmark decision, effective May 31, 2026, is a strategic step aimed at empowering young Saudi talent and providing them with suitable job opportunities in the growing Saudi labor market, in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Professions targeted by the decision to localize procurement jobs in the private sector
The decision encompasses establishments with three or more employees working in professions related to procurement and supply chains, according to the definitions and professional titles adopted in the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations. This step includes the Saudization of 12 key and vital professions in this sector: Procurement Manager, Procurement Representative, Contracts Manager, Warehouse Keeper, Logistics Manager, and Warehouse Manager. The decision also extends to include Tenders Specialist, Procurement Specialist, E-commerce Specialist, Market Research Specialist, Warehouse Specialist, and Private Label Supply Specialist.
The historical context of localization programs and Saudi Vision 2030
This initiative is an extension of a series of strategic decisions and programs launched by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development over the past years to regulate the Saudi labor market. These programs primarily aim to reduce unemployment rates among Saudi citizens and increase the contribution of national talent to leading vital sectors. The procurement and logistics sector is a cornerstone of the national economy, having witnessed rapid growth with the influx of foreign and domestic investments and the expansion of major projects in the Kingdom. This has made the training and localization of this sector an urgent necessity to ensure business sustainability and the transfer of knowledge and expertise to Saudi youth.
The expected economic and social impact of the decision, locally and regionally
This decision is expected to bring about a qualitative shift at both the local and regional levels. Locally, it will create thousands of stable and attractive job opportunities for citizens, boosting purchasing power and supporting the stability of Saudi families. Regionally and internationally, enhancing national efficiency in supply chain and procurement management will increase the competitiveness of Saudi companies in global markets and position the Kingdom as a leading regional logistics hub, relying on the skills of its qualified citizens according to the highest international standards.
Strict monitoring and application of penalties against violating establishments
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development confirmed that its inspection teams have already begun field visits to monitor the implementation of the decision in targeted establishments across all regions of the Kingdom. These visits aim to ensure establishments' compliance with the specified quotas and the Saudization of targeted professions to guarantee a productive and stable work environment. The Ministry also emphasized that it will not tolerate any violations and will strictly enforce the prescribed penalties against establishments that fail to comply with the decision's regulations after the deadline. It urged business owners to take advantage of the support and empowerment programs offered by the government to facilitate the recruitment and training of Saudi nationals.
