Saudi HR Ministry sets 60% Saudization target for marketing and sales jobs

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced a major expansion of its Saudization programme, mandating a 60% localization rate in private-sector marketing and sales roles starting January 19, 2026.

The move, announced through two ministerial decisions, is part of broader efforts to boost the participation of Saudi nationals in the labour market, increase localization in specialised professions, and create sustainable, high-quality employment opportunities across the Kingdom.

Under the first decision, marketing roles will be subject to a 60% Saudization requirement for private-sector establishments employing three or more workers in these functions. The ministry said: “The first decision stipulates raising the Saudization rate to 60% in marketing professions within the private sector, effective 19/01/2026. It applies to establishments employing three or more workers in marketing roles, with a minimum salary of SAR 5,500.

“The targeted professions include: Marketing Manager, Advertising Agent, Advertising Manager, Graphic Designer, Advertising Designer, Public Relations Specialist, Advertising Specialist, Marketing Specialist, Public Relations Manager, and Photographer. Implementation will begin three months from the date of announcement, allowing establishments sufficient time to prepare and comply.”

It also provided details of 60% Saudization for sales jobs, adding: “The second decision provides for raising the Saudization rate to 60% in sales professions within the private sector, effective 19/01/2026. It applies to establishments employing three or more workers in sales roles.

“Targeted professions include: Sales Manager, Retail Sales Representative, Wholesale Sales Representative, Sales Representative, ICT Equipment Sales Specialist, Sales Specialist, Commercial Specialist, and Commodity Broker. The decision will also come into force three months from the date of announcement, enabling covered establishments to complete requirements and achieve the targeted Saudization rate.”

Both decisions will come into effect three months after their announcement, giving employers time to prepare and align their workforce plans.

The ministry said affected companies will be supported through a range of incentives, including recruitment assistance, training and upskilling programmes, employment and job stability support, and priority access to Saudization initiatives and funding from the Human Resources Development Fund (Hadaf).

According to the ministry, the decisions are based on labour market analysis and aligned with the availability of Saudi jobseekers and the current and future needs of the sales and marketing sectors. Officials said the measures are expected to enhance the attractiveness of the Saudi labour market, expand quality job opportunities, and strengthen job stability for national talent.

Procedural guides outlining targeted roles, Saudization calculation methods, and compliance requirements have been published on the ministry’s website. Employers covered by the new rules have been urged to use the grace period to prepare and comply, warning that penalties may apply for non-compliance once enforcement begins.