Saudi Arabia has announced its decision to localize 41 professions in the tourism sector within private sector establishments, a significant step in the country’s Saudization effort. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, will implement this initiative in three phases, with the first phase commencing on April 22, 2026. This move is part of the government’s broader efforts to create more stimulating job opportunities for male and female citizens across the Kingdom.
Key professions in the Saudization drive
The new Saudization drive will encompass 41 leadership and specialized professions. Notable roles include hotel manager, hotel operations manager, and hotel control manager. Other positions are travel agency manager, planning and development manager, and tourism development specialist. Additionally, it includes tourist guide specialist, tourist organizer, and hotel specialist. Other roles are site guide, purchasing specialist, sales specialist, and hotel receptionist.
Read more: Saudi Arabia implements 2nd phase of Saudization of consulting services
Implementation timeline
In addition, the first phase of the Saudization decision will begin on April 22, 2026. The second phase is scheduled to start on January 3, 2027, followed by the third and final phase on January 2, 2028. Moreover, this decision will apply to all private sector tourism establishments.
The MHRSD has released a procedural guide detailing the decision, including the professions to be Saudized, the percentages of Saudization, and other relevant information on its website. This guide further aims to inform employers and establishments about the mechanism for calculating Saudization and the prescribed penalties for violators.
Commitment to increasing Saudization
Furthermore, this decision continues the MHRSD’s efforts to enhance the percentage of Saudization in various professions, aligning with the labor market strategy to support national competencies and increase their employment opportunities across different sectors.
