Saudi Arabia Sets October Deadline: 50 Administrative Roles to Go 100% Saudi

A significant shift in the Saudi Arabian labor market is set to take effect as the Kingdom moves closer to full Saudization for several key sectors. A six-month grace period is currently underway for 50 specific administrative support roles, with a final deadline for compliance established for 4 October 2026.

Following Ministerial Decision No. 132249, issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) on 5 April 2026, these positions will be reserved exclusively for Saudi nationals. This mandate is absolute, applying to all private-sector companies without exception, including foreign representative offices and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Strict Enforcement Against Outsourcing

The new regulations are designed to ensure that these roles are filled directly by Saudi citizens. To prevent companies from bypassing the law,