Saudi Arabia implements full localisation of administrative support professions

At a glance

• Saudi Arabia has implemented a requirement for the full localisation of 69 administrative support professions in the private sector, effective 4 October 2026.
• The measure forms part of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development's (MHRSD) ongoing strategy to increase employment opportunities for Saudi nationals.
• The localisation requirement applies to a range of administrative, human resources, recruitment, public relations and support roles.
• Ministry inspection teams have commenced compliance monitoring across the Kingdom and may impose penalties on employers that fail to meet the localisation requirements.
• Employers should review their workforce composition to ensure that affected positions are staffed in accordance with the new localisation rules.

The Saudi Arabian MHRSD has announced that its decision to localise 100% of administrative support professions in the private sector entered into force on 4 October 2026. The initiative is intended to strengthen the participation of Saudi nationals in the labour market and create additional employment opportunities across the Kingdom.

The decision applies to 69 administrative support occupations, as classified under the Saudi Standard Classification of Professions. Covered roles include a range of human resources, recruitment, public relations, government relations, administrative and logistics-related positions, such as Human Resources Development Managers, Recruitment Specialists, Government Relations Clerks, Administrative Assistants, Receptionists and Public Relations Specialists.

With the measure now in effect, MHRSD inspection teams have begun monitoring compliance across Saudi Arabia. Employers that fail to meet the prescribed localisation requirements for covered roles may be subject to applicable penalties.

The decision forms part of the Ministry's broader labour market strategy to increase localisation rates across sectors, support the development of national talent and expand employment opportunities for Saudi citizens.