Saudi Arabia enforces 40% Saudization in consulting service

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced the activation of the second phase of Saudization within consulting services professions, effective as of Monday, March 25th.

This phase targets a significant portion, covering 40% of professions linked to consulting services, notably in financial, engineering, architectural, health, and senior management consulting domains.

This strategic initiative aligns with the ministry’s overarching goal of fostering a more robust and diverse employment landscape for both male and female citizens across Saudi Arabia. Key professions subject to Saudization in this phase include financial and business consulting specialists, cyber security consultants, project management executives, engineers, and specialists.

In collaboration with various governmental bodies including the Ministry of Finance, the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority, Expenditure and Project Efficiency Authority (EXPRO), and the Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF), the ministry underscores its commitment to diligently monitor and implement the second phase of Saudization. This partnership ensures alignment with sector requirements and labor market demands.

This concerted effort is part of a broader agenda to bolster job prospects for Saudi nationals and elevate their participation levels in the workforce. The ministry, alongside allied ministries and regulatory entities, remains steadfast in its mission to create an environment conducive to stimulating and sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for the Kingdom’s youth.

Furthermore, the ministry pledges a comprehensive incentive package to incentivize private sector entities in their efforts to onboard Saudi talent. These incentives encompass support mechanisms for recruitment, training, qualification, and career progression, with priority access to nationalization support programs facilitated through HADAF.

To facilitate compliance, the ministry has issued detailed guidelines elucidating the localization directives and implementation protocols. Establishments are urged to adhere strictly to Saudization regulations to avoid statutory penalties imposed on non-compliant entities. This measure underscores the ministry’s unwavering commitment to advancing Saudi workforce participation and fortifying the Kingdom’s economic landscape.