Saudi Arabia raises Saudization rates across key sectors: Dentistry, pharmacy, accounting and engineering

Dubai: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced new decisions to increase Saudization rates across 269 professions in various sectors, including dentistry, pharmacy, accounting and engineering.

The initiative aims to create more job opportunities for Saudi nationals, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.

Implemented in collaboration with supervisory bodies such as the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, the initiative mandates specific Saudization rates for key industries with set deadlines.

Pharmacy Professions
Effective July 27, 2025, 55 per cent of pharmacy-related activities and 65 per cent of those associated with hospitals must be localized. The Saudization rate for community pharmacies and medical complexes will rise to 35 per cent. The decision applies to establishments employing five or more workers in pharmacy professions.

Dentistry Professions
Dentistry professions will undergo a phased Saudization process. By July 27, 2025, 45 per cent Saudization will be required, increasing to 55 per cent by the following year. These regulations apply to establishments employing three or more dentists, with a minimum wage of 9,000 Saudi riyals ($2,400) factored into the Saudization calculation.

Accounting Professions
Accounting professions will follow a five-phase Saudization plan starting October 27, 2025. The initial phase will require 40 per cent Saudization, gradually increasing to 70% over five years. This applies to businesses with five or more accountants.

Engineering Professions
Engineering technical professions will also see increased Saudization rates. Beginning July 27, 2025, private sector establishments employing five or more engineers must ensure that at least 30 per cent of their workforce in these roles are Saudi nationals.

The ministry has issued procedural guides outlining the mechanisms for calculating Saudization rates and the penalties for non-compliance. These measures aim to facilitate smooth implementation and ensure adherence to the new regulations.