Human Resources: Updating the decision to localize administrative support jobs
In a new strategic step aimed at enhancing the participation of Saudi nationals in the labor market, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced a significant update to the decision regarding the Saudization of administrative support positions in private sector establishments. This update will take effect on Monday, April 5, 2026, and includes the addition of 69 new professions to the scope of occupations subject to 100% Saudization, in accordance with the definitions and occupational titles adopted in the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations.
The Kingdom's journey towards empowering national talents
This decision comes within a historical context linked to the radical transformations the Saudi labor market has witnessed since the launch of Vision 2030. In recent years, the Saudi government has focused its efforts on restructuring the economy and reducing reliance on expatriate labor in jobs that young Saudis can efficiently manage. Successive Saudization policies, from the Nitaqat program to ministerial decrees specifying professions, are part of a comprehensive national strategy aimed at reducing unemployment rates among citizens and increasing the contribution of local talent to driving sustainable economic development.
Details of adding 69 professions within the localization of administrative support jobs
The Ministry clarified in its official statement that the updated decision regarding the localization of administrative support jobs includes the addition of a wide range of vital job titles. These professions are concentrated in the fields of secretarial work, writing, translation, data entry, and administrative support. It is worth noting that this decision will be strictly enforced in all private sector establishments employing one or more workers in the covered professions. To ensure transparency and ease of implementation, the Ministry published the updated procedural guide on its official website, which clearly details the new professions and implementation mechanisms, while explicitly urging all establishments to comply to avoid the penalties stipulated for violations.
The economic and social impact of the new decision
This update is of paramount importance and has a multifaceted impact. Domestically, the decision will create thousands of direct job opportunities for young Saudi men and women, thereby strengthening social stability and domestic economic growth by increasing citizens' purchasing power. Regionally and internationally, these steps solidify the Kingdom's position as a leading model in the Middle East for labor market reform and human capital development, reflecting a mature regulatory environment capable of adapting to changes, protecting the employment rights of its citizens, and providing a safe and stable work environment.
Government incentives to support private sector establishments
Recognizing the importance of partnership with the private sector, this update complements the Ministry's efforts to localize specialized professions, ensuring that businesses will not be left to face this transformation alone. Private sector establishments will benefit from a wide range of support and incentive programs offered by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. These incentives include financial and logistical support for recruitment, training, qualification, employment, and job stability. Furthermore, committed establishments will be given priority access to various localization support programs and programs offered by the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF), guaranteeing a smooth and fruitful transition that benefits both employers and Saudi employees.
