Saudi Arabia approves new framework for overseas employment of citizens

Saudi Arabia has approved a new regulatory framework governing the contracting of Saudi nationals for overseas assignments, establishing standardized eligibility, compensation, and administrative requirements for government-linked roles abroad.

The framework was approved by the Saudi Council of Ministers through Decision No. 802 dated 11/11/1447H and was published in Official Gazette No. 5158 on May 8, 2026. It is set to come into force 120 days after publication.

The new rules apply to government entities that recruit Saudi citizens to work in diplomatic missions, attachés, and technical offices outside the Kingdom. The framework aims to streamline overseas employment practices while ensuring consistency in recruitment and benefits.

Under the regulations, candidates must meet a series of eligibility requirements, including Saudi nationality, minimum age criteria, relevant qualifications and professional experience, medical fitness, and security clearance. Individuals who have been dismissed for disciplinary reasons or are involved in ongoing legal proceedings will generally be ineligible unless specific conditions are met.

Government entities seeking to hire Saudi nationals for overseas assignments will also be required to obtain workforce planning approvals from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

The framework introduces a standardized remuneration structure consisting of a base salary determined according to an official salary scale, alongside a range of allowances and benefits. Housing allowances will be set at 25% of base salary, while transportation allowances will be capped at 10%.

Employees assigned abroad will also be entitled to medical insurance coverage, education support for dependants, relocation allowances, travel benefits, and hardship allowances for designated locations, subject to applicable policies.

To support implementation, the decision mandates the issuance of unified administrative regulations within 90 days. These regulations will govern contracting procedures and provide operational guidance for government entities.

Saudi authorities said the framework must be implemented within existing budget allocations and should not result in additional financial burdens on the state.

A formal review of the framework is scheduled after three years to evaluate its effectiveness, assess implementation outcomes, and identify any areas requiring adjustment.