Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced the 2nd phase of Saudization in consulting services, effective March 25. The second phase covers 40 percent of professions in sectors such as financial consulting, engineering, architecture, health consulting and senior management consulting. This move aims to enhance job opportunities for citizens in various regions of Saudi Arabia.
Expanding Saudization
The first phase of this decision took effect on March 4, 2023, and aimed to localize 35 percent of these professions. The second phase of Saudization covers 40 percent of professions in consulting services. It targets key jobs including financial consulting specialists, business consulting specialists and cyber security consulting specialists. It also includes project managers, project management engineers and project management specialists. This strategic move underscores the ministry’s commitment to increasing the participation of Saudis in the labor market and providing them with rewarding and productive employment opportunities.
The ministry commits to following up on the implementation of the second phase of Saudization in consulting services in an effort to increase the level of participation of Saudis in the labor market. Therefore, it will partner with the Ministry of Finance, the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority, the Expenditure and Project Efficiency Authority (EXPRO), and the Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF) to ensure effective implementation.
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Private sector participation
To encourage Saudization in consulting services in the private sector, the ministry is offering a range of incentives. This includes support in recruitment processes, training, qualification and career advancement opportunities. Additionally, Saudi Arabia will provide priority access to nationalization support programs and initiatives through HADAF to the private sector.
Moreover, the human resources ministry has issued a comprehensive guide outlining the details of Saudization decisions and the implementation mechanisms. Establishments are urged to adhere to Saudization regulations to avoid statutory penalties for non-compliance. By fostering compliance, the ministry aims to ensure the effective localization of professions and the integration of Saudi citizens into the workforce.
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