Saudi Arabia: Increased Saudization Requirements for Certain Professions

Saudi authorities have announced the following increases to Saudization rates for private sector roles in the accounting, dentistry, engineering and pharmacy industries:

• Dentistry businesses (with at least three dental workers): 45% on July 27, 2025, and then 55% on January 27, 2026.

• Engineering businesses (with at least five engineers): 30% on July 27, 2025
• Accounting sector:
  • Businesses with at least five accountants: 40% on October 27, 2025; and then increasing annually by 10% until it reaches 70% on October 27, 2028.
  • Businesses with three to four accountants: 30% on October 27, 2029.
• Pharmacy sector: On July 27, 2025, the rate will be set at 65% hospitals, 35% for community pharmacies and medical complexes, and 55% for other pharmacy-related businesses.

Businesses must adjust their workforce to comply. Noncompliance will lead to penalties, including the suspension of Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development services such as employee transfers and work permit renewals.