Saudi Arabia has introduced stricter Saudization requirements as part of its updated Nitaqat reforms for 2026. The new rules increase mandatory hiring quotas for Saudi nationals across sectors including healthcare, engineering, marketing, accounting, and procurement. Companies failing to meet localization targets could face penalties, restrictions on visa issuance, and lower compliance ratings. The reforms are expected to impact expatriate hiring, particularly in white-collar professions where Saudi authorities aim to boost local employment opportunities. HR experts say companies are now reviewing staffing structures and employment contracts to align with the updated digital compliance requirements linked to the Qiwa platform. While the reforms support Vision 2030 goals, many expatriate workers are closely monitoring how the changes could affect long-term career opportunities in the Kingdom. Source: Middle East Briefing

SAUDI

Saudization;Saudi jobs;expat workers;Nitaqat;Saudi Arabia