In a significant move to bolster local employment, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) has announced plans to increase Saudization rates across 269 professions in various sectors, including dentistry, pharmacy, accounting, and technical engineering. This initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives to enhance job opportunities for Saudi citizens nationwide.
Pharmacy Sector
Effective July 27, 2025, the MHRSD, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, will implement new Saudization rates in the pharmacy sector. Establishments employing five or more individuals in pharmacy-related roles are required to achieve the following localization rates:
- 35% in community pharmacies and medical complexes
- 65% in hospital pharmacy activities
- 55% in other pharmacy-related activities
These measures aim to significantly increase the representation of Saudi professionals in the pharmaceutical field.
Dentistry Profession
The Saudization rate for dentistry professions will be increased in two phases:
- First Phase: Starting July 27, 2025, a 45% localization rate will be enforced.
- Second Phase: Twelve months later, the rate will rise to 55%.
This applies to establishments with three or more dental professionals. Additionally, the minimum monthly salary for Saudi dentists has been set at SAR 9,000 to be counted within the Saudization quota.
Accounting Sector
Beginning October 27, 2025, the MHRSD, in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce, will initiate a phased approach to increase Saudization in the accounting profession. The plan spans five years and applies to establishments employing five or more accountants, with localization rates progressing as follows:
- 40% in the first phase
- Gradually increasing to 70% over subsequent phases
This strategy aims to integrate more Saudi nationals into financial and accounting roles.
Technical Engineering Professions
Effective July 27, 2025, a 30% Saudization rate will be mandated for technical engineering professions. This applies to private sector establishments with five or more employees in these roles. The initiative seeks to incorporate more Saudi engineers into the private sector, thereby strengthening the country’s technical and engineering capabilities.
Implementation and Compliance
The MHRSD has issued detailed procedural guidelines on its official website, outlining methods for calculating localization rates and specifying penalties for non-compliance. Employers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these requirements to ensure adherence to the new regulations.
These decisions are part of the MHRSD’s broader strategy to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by creating more job opportunities across various sectors for the national workforce. The ministry aims to empower Saudi citizens, enhance economic development, and foster a more sustainable and inclusive labor market.
As the implementation dates approach, employers and employees are encouraged to prepare for these changes, poised to reshape the employment landscape and contribute to the Kingdom’s long-term prosperity.
