New regulations for job advertisements and interview processes within the private sector

At a glance

• Employers must follow specific guidelines for job advertisements, ensuring compliance with the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations and using approved platforms.
• Advertisements must include a brief description of the establishment, job description, application requirements, work nature, hours, benefits, and application deadline.
• Employers must notify applicants of interview details at least three working days in advance, and ensure the interview location meets health and safety standards and accommodates disabilities.
• A committee of at least two Saudi individuals, including a human resources specialist, must conduct interviews, with non-Saudi specialists allowed under certain conditions.
• Questions about personal freedoms or confidential information from previous employment are banned. Employers must document interview results and inform applicants of the outcome within 30 days.

The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has introduced regulations to standardise job advertisements and interview processes within the private sector. This decision affects private sector employers, requiring them to follow specific guidelines when advertising job vacancies and conducting interviews.

Employers must ensure that job advertisements comply with the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations and are published through approved digital platforms, company websites, official social media accounts, or licensed job fairs. Key provisions include:

• providing a brief description of the establishment;
• a clear job description;
• application requirements; and
• details about the nature of the work, hours, and benefits in job advertisements.

Advertisements must also specify the application deadline and ensure electronic submission of applications. Interview procedures must include notifying applicants of the interview type, date, and time at least three working days in advance. The interview location must meet occupational health and safety standards, provide adequate facilities, and accommodate applicants with disabilities. A committee of at least two Saudi individuals, including a human resources specialist, must conduct interviews, with non-Saudi specialists allowed under certain conditions.

The regulations prohibit questions related to personal freedoms or confidential information about previous employment during interviews. Employers must document interview results and inform applicants of the outcome within 30 days, providing reasons for unsuccessful applications.