Saudization of Engineering Jobs Begins in Saudi Arabia

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, in collaboration with the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, has launched the implementation of the Saudization of engineering jobs. The new mandate requires private sector companies to ensure that at least 25% of their engineering workforce consists of Saudi nationals. This rule took effect on July 21, 2024.

New Policy Targets Key Technical Fields

The Saudization of engineering jobs applies to all private sector companies with five or more engineering roles. It is part of the government’s broader efforts to create meaningful employment for Saudi citizens and to align national skills with evolving labor market needs. By localizing these high-value professions, the policy supports Vision 2030’s goal of boosting national workforce participation in critical industries.

Support and Incentives for Compliance

To ease the transition, the Ministry is offering an array of support programs. These include help with recruitment, training, and retention of Saudi engineers. Employers who comply with the Saudization of engineering jobs initiative will receive additional benefits through the Human Resources Development Fund (Hadaf), including financial incentives and access to government-backed hiring platforms.

Moreover, the Ministry has published a detailed procedural guide. It outlines the list of affected engineering professions, required compliance rates, and legal obligations. This guide is available on the Ministry’s official website.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The Ministry emphasized that companies failing to comply with the Saudization of engineering jobs decision may face legal penalties. Therefore, it urged all private sector entities to review the guide, prepare their HR strategies, and leverage available resources to meet the mandate efficiently.

This step strengthens national employment capacity and reduces dependence on foreign labor. The Kingdom sees the Saudization of engineering jobs as a key contributor to both economic sustainability and workforce development.