Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced the start of enforcement of two decisions raising localization rates in marketing and sales professions, effective April 19, 2026, following the expiration of the grace period granted to private sector establishments.
The ministry said the measures are part of ongoing efforts to create additional employment opportunities for Saudi nationals across various regions of the Kingdom.
Scope of Application
According to the ministry, the two decisions raise the Saudization rate in marketing and sales professions within the private sector to 60%. The rules apply to establishments employing three or more workers in these professions.
A minimum wage threshold of 5,500 Saudi riyals has been set for a Saudi employee to be counted within the localization rate in marketing professions.
Targeted Professions
The ministry specified that the marketing professions covered by the localization decision include: marketing manager, advertising agent, advertising manager, graphic designer, advertisement designer, public relations specialist, advertising specialist, marketing specialist, public relations manager, and photographer.
The sales professions covered include: sales manager, retail sales representative, wholesale sales representative, sales representative, ICT equipment sales specialist, sales specialist, commercial specialist, and commodities broker.
Implementation and Compliance
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development stated that it has published procedural guides for both decisions on its official website. The guides outline the professions covered, implementation mechanisms, and methods for calculating localization rates, including penalties for violations.
Background
The ministry noted that the two decisions are a continuation of its efforts, in partnership with supervisory government entities, to raise localization rates across professions.
The measures are linked to the objectives of the Kingdom’s labor market strategy and Saudi Vision 2030, which aim to support national talent and expand employment opportunities for Saudi citizens across various sectors.