HRSD Ministry implements 70% Saudization rate for procurement professions

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The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) announced the start of implementing its decision to increase Saudization in procurement-related professions in the private sector to 70%, effective May 31.

The requirement applies to private-sector establishments employing three or more workers in the covered occupations, based on the approved job titles and definitions in the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations, the ministry said in a statement.

The decision covers 12 professions, including procurement manager, purchasing representative, contracts manager, warehouse keeper, logistics services manager, warehouse manager, tender specialist, procurement specialist, e-commerce specialist, market research specialist, warehouse specialist, and private label sourcing specialist.

The ministry also explained that its inspection teams have begun monitoring compliance among targeted establishments and verifying adherence to the required Saudization ratios. The objective is to provide a productive and stable work environment for Saudi nationals.

Statutory penalties will be imposed on non-compliant establishments after the specified grace period.

According to data available to Argaam, the ministry announced its decision in January 2026 to raise the Saudization rate in procurement professions in the private sector to 70%.