Saudi Arabia raises Saudization rate in marketing, sales jobs to 60%

The HRSD ministry’s decisions come as part of its efforts to enhance the participation of national talent in the labor market

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) announced two decisions to raise Saudization rates in marketing and sales professions, aiming to boost the participation of Saudi talent, increase localization in specialized roles, and create attractive, productive job opportunities across the Kingdom.

Under the first decision, the Saudization rate for private-sector marketing roles will rise to 60%, effective Jan. 19. It applies to establishments with three or more employees in marketing positions, with a minimum wage set at SAR 5,500.

Targeted roles include marketing manager, advertising manager, advertising agent, graphic designer, advertising designer, public relations specialist, marketing specialist, public relations manager, and photographer. Implementation will begin three months from the announcement to allow firms sufficient time to comply.

The second decision raises the Saudization rate for private-sector sales roles to 60%, also effective Jan. 19, for establishments employing three or more staff in sales positions.

Covered roles include sales manager, retail and wholesale sales representatives, ICT sales specialist, sales specialist, commercial specialist, and commodity broker. This decision will similarly take effect three months after the announcement to allow adequate preparation.

The HRSD ministry noted that private-sector establishments will benefit from a package of support measures, including recruitment, training, qualification, and job stability programs, as well as priority access to initiatives offered by the Human Resources Development Fund (Hadaf).

The ministry added that the decisions are based on labor market analyses, reflecting the number of job seekers in relevant fields and the current and future needs of the marketing and sales sectors. HRSD said the measures will enhance the labor market’s attractiveness, expand quality job opportunities, and strengthen job stability for Saudi talent.

The ministry also published a procedural guide on its website, outlining targeted professions, Saudization calculation methods, and compliance requirements. It urged all covered establishments to adhere to the rules within the grace period to avoid regulatory penalties.