Saudi fund to raise minimum salary threshold for employment support
The Human Resources Development Fund will increase eligibility requirements in two phases through 2028.
At a glance
- Minimum salary threshold rises to SR5,000 in April 2027, then SR6,000 in April 2028
- Changes apply to new applications immediately and existing applications from May of each year
- Fund will maintain subsidy of up to 50 per cent of salaries, capped at SR3,000 monthly
- Increase aligns with Ministry of Human Resources decision on Nitaqat Saudization program requirements
The Human Resources Development Fund announced a two-phase increase in the minimum monthly salary required for its Employment Support Program. Starting April 25, 2027, the threshold will rise from SR4,000 to SR5,000, with a further increase to SR6,000 taking effect on April 25, 2028.
The fund will continue subsidising up to 50 per cent of eligible Saudi employees' monthly salaries, with a maximum contribution of SR3,000 per month. According to the HRDF, the changes aim to strengthen the competitiveness of Saudi workers, improve job quality and sustainability, and encourage private sector employers to hire Saudi talent.
Why it matters
The Employment Support Program helps private sector employers hire Saudi workers by covering part of their salaries, making the threshold changes relevant to labour market dynamics and employment policy.
Original reporting
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