RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has announced a significant initiative to localize 41 professions within the tourism sector, aiming to enhance employment opportunities for its citizens. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, will implement this decision in three phases, commencing on April 22, 2026. This move is part of the Kingdom's broader strategy to bolster national competencies and increase Saudi participation in various industries.
Implementation Timeline
The Saudization process will unfold in three distinct phases:
- Phase 1: Starting April 22, 2026, this phase will see the localization of four professions at 100%, twelve professions at 70%, and another twelve at 50%.
- Phase 2: Beginning January 3, 2027, this phase will focus on localizing one profession at 30%.
- Phase 3: Commencing January 2, 2028, the final phase aims to localize twelve leadership professions at 50%.
These measures will apply to all private sector establishments operating within the tourism industry.
Professions Targeted for Saudization
The localization initiative encompasses a wide range of leadership and specialized roles, including:
- Hotel Manager
- Hotel Operations Manager
- Hotel Control Manager
- Travel Agency Manager
- Planning and Development Manager
- Tourism Development Specialist
- Tourist Guide Specialist
- Tourist Organizer
- Hotel Specialist
- Site Guide
- Purchasing Specialist
- Sales Specialist
- Hotel Receptionist
This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that Saudi nationals are well-represented across various facets of the tourism sector.
Guidelines and Compliance
The MHRSD has released a procedural guide detailing the specifics of the Saudization decision, including the professions targeted, localization percentages, and the mechanisms for calculating compliance. Employers and establishments are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these guidelines to ensure adherence and avoid potential penalties for non-compliance.
Strategic Objectives
This initiative aligns with the Kingdom's broader labor market strategy, focusing on:
- Enhancing the participation of Saudi nationals in the workforce.
- Providing stimulating and productive job opportunities for both male and female citizens.
- Supporting national competencies and increasing their employment prospects across various sectors.
By localizing key professions within the tourism industry, Saudi Arabia aims to foster a more inclusive and nationally representative workforce, contributing to the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives.
