70% Saudization mandated for project management professions from Feb. 14, 2027

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia will start implementing 70 percent localization in project management professions in the private sector effective from February 14, 2027. This was announced on Sunday by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. The ministry will implement the decision in partnership with the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing.The decision forms part of the ministry's ongoing efforts to advance the Saudization of specialized professions, empower national talent, and increase their participation in the labor market, in line with the objectives of the Labor Market Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030. Under the decision, 70 percent Saudization rate will apply to project management professions at all private sector establishments employing three or more workers in the targeted professions, at the entity level. The professions covered by the decision include project management director, project management engineer, and project management specialist, in accordance with the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations. The provisions of the decision apply to all establishments covered by its scope, as detailed in the procedural guide. The ministry has published the procedural guide on its website, outlining the professions covered, implementation mechanisms, Saudization ratio calculations, and compliance requirements. The guide is intended to help employers and establishments understand the decision's requirements and ensure compliance with its provisions. The decision further reflects the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development's ongoing efforts, in partnership with supervisory bodies, to Saudize specialized professions and increase the participation of Saudi citizens in the labor market. These efforts contribute to strengthening national competencies, enhancing labor market efficiency, and advancing the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.