Littler Global Guide - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia - Q3 2023

Browse through brief employment and labor law updates from around the globe. Contact a Littler attorney for more information or view our global locations.

Download full Q3 2023 Global Guide Quarterly

Saudization of Professions in Madinah and Jazan Regions

New Regulation or Official Guidance

Authors: Sara Khoja, Partner and Head of Employment, and Sarit Thomas, Knowledge Management Counsel – Clyde & Co

Certain roles within the Madinah and Jazan regions are subject to Saudization. These include:

  • 40% Saudization for restaurant activities, including full-service restaurant, banquet kitchens, fast food shops and juice shops
  • 50% Saudization for cafes and ice cream shops
  • 50% Saudization for wholesale food and beverage outlets

Certain exemptions to the above apply.

Saudization of Women’s Centers and Sewing Activities

Important Action by Regulatory Agency

Authors: Sara Khoja, Partner and Head of Employment, and Sarit Thomas, Knowledge Management Counsel – Clyde & Co

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has Saudized roles in women’s centers and sewing activities in cooperation with the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing with the aim of increasing jobs within technical administrative professions.

No Saudization Requirements Within the Kingdom’s Special Economic Zones

Important Action by Regulatory Agency

Authors: Sara Khoja, Partner and Head of Employment, and Sarit Thomas, Knowledge Management Counsel – Clyde & Co

The Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi has announced that Special Economic Zones in the Kingdom will be exempt from having to implement the Saudization requirements.

Information contained in this publication is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or opinion, nor is it a substitute for the professional judgment of an attorney.