Saudi HR Ministry raises Saudization in dental professions n private sector to 55%

"The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, announced the second phase of raising Saudization rates for dental professions in the private sector.

Under the new phase, all private sector establishments with three or more employees in dental specialties must ensure that 55% of their workforce are Saudi nationals. 

The procedural guide specifies that only Saudi dentists registered with the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI), earning a minimum monthly salary of SR9,000, and holding valid accreditation from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties, will be counted toward the Saudization quota.

"In line with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s efforts, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, to provide motivating, productive, and stable job opportunities for Saudi citizens, both men and women, across all regions of the Kingdom, and to increase their participation in the labor market; and based on the ministry’s direction to localize sectors and target activities and professions in accordance with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030....

and with reference to Ministerial Decision No. (103107) dated 27/01/2025 approving the updated procedural guide for dental professions and the application of Saudization rates for dental professions, along with a minimum wage, in accordance with the professional definitions, titles, and conditions specified in the procedural guide, Saudization for dental professions will be implemented in two phases: First phase: 45% as of 27/07/2025. Second phase: 55% as of 27/01/2026," the Ministry said. 

Earlier, facilities with three or more dental practitioners were required to meet a 45% Saudization rate, with the same salary and accreditation conditions.

The ministries said the move is part of broader efforts to enhance the participation of national talent in the labor market, create productive job opportunities, and support the objectives of the Labor Market Strategy and Health Sector Transformation Program.

The procedural guide has been published on the ministry’s website, and establishments are urged to comply to avoid penalties. Private sector employers can also access support and incentive programs, including recruitment, training, employment, and job retention initiatives, along with priority access to the Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF) and other localization support programs.