Saudi Arabia raises Saudization requirement for engineering roles to 35%
Private sector firms must increase local workforce participation in technical professions by May 2027.
At a glance
- Saudization rate for 94 technical engineering professions increases from 30% to 35%
- New requirement takes effect May 9, 2027 for private sector establishments with five or more workers
- Targeted professions include civil, electrical, mechanical and electronic engineering technicians
- Decision aligns with Labor Market Strategy and Vision 2030 objectives
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced an increase in the Saudization rate for 94 technical engineering professions in private sector establishments to 35 percent, effective May 9, 2027. The requirement applies to firms employing five or more workers in targeted roles including civil engineering technicians, electrical engineering technicians, mechanical engineering technicians, and architectural draftsmen.
The decision raises the previous requirement of 30 percent, which took effect in July 2025. According to the ministry, the move aims to advance specialised professions, develop national talent, and expand local participation in the labour market as part of the Labor Market Strategy and Vision 2030 objectives.
Why it matters
The policy reflects efforts to increase local employment in specialised technical roles and support broader economic development goals.
Original reporting
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