Saudi HR Ministry announces localization of 12 job roles in Sports industry

Saudi Arabia is expanding job localisation into another key sector i.e. Sports, as the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) announced a 15% Saudization target for sports centres and gyms in the private sector.

The initiative, implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Sports, will take effect from 18 November 2026 and applies to establishments with four or more employees. 

The move is part of ongoing efforts to create more productive and motivating job opportunities for Saudi men and women across the Kingdom.

“The decision includes the localisation of 12 professions in both men’s and women’s sports centres and gyms, including sports trainer, professional football coach, sports supervisor, personal trainer, and professional athletics coach. This is expected to enhance the quality of sports services in the private sector and contribute to building a more professional environment within sports establishments,” the Ministry said.

The HRSD system will provide support programmes to help establishments employ Saudi nationals. “These include assistance with recruitment, training, qualification, employment, and job retention, as well as priority access to Saudization support programmes and the Human Resources Development Fund (Hadaf),” it added.

The Ministry also issued procedural guidelines outlining the localisation percentage, the targeted roles, and compliance requirements, stressing the need for establishments to adhere to the regulations to avoid penalties.

The roles included in the Saudization decision are:
Sports Coach, Fitness Trainer, Professional Football Coach, Professional Sports Coach, Water Sports Coach, Private Sports Trainer, Track and Field (Athletics) Coach, Sports Supervisor, Ice Sports Coach, Equestrian Coach, Self-Defense Sports Coach, and Ball Sports Coach.

Here are the guidelines: