With effect from 21 July, 2024, 25 per cent of engineering jobs in the private sector of the Kingdom of Saudia Arabia (KSA) will be localised. This is part of KSA’s efforts to reduce unemployment to seven per cent by 2030.
The localisation will be applicable to private establishments that have at least five employees in the field of engineering or related roles.
The move has full support of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) and the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, KSA.
This measure, it is hoped, will result in more productive jobs for men and women across KSA. The roles or jobs that will be covered include civil engineers, flight engineers, chemical engineers, as well as mechanical and electrical engineers, as per media reports.
Additionally, the Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF) will provide incentives and relevant support programmes. Support will also be provided in terms of training and career continuity.
Last year, the initial phase of ‘Saudisation’ was implemented mandating a 35 per cent Saudisation rate. ‘Saudisation’ is a multi-pronged strategy to reduce the KSA’s reliance on foreign labour. It aligns with Vision 2030, aimed at diversification of income sources and reduction of oil dependency.
In recent years, similar initiatives have been rolled out in education, telecommunications, real estate, sales (15 per cent localised) and project management. A plan was also reportedly underway to localise 35 per cent of dental professions.
