Saudi Arabia Mandates 60% Saudization in Marketing and Sales Sectors with SAR 5,500 Minimum Wage

New Saudization Mandate for Marketing and Sales

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in Saudi Arabia has issued two decisions to raise the Saudization rate to 60% for marketing and sales professions in the private sector. These new regulations, announced on January 19, 2026, will become effective three months later, around April 19, 2026, allowing businesses a preparation period to comply. The initiative is part of the Kingdom's broader efforts to enhance the participation of Saudi nationals in the labor market and create sustainable employment opportunities.

Under the new directives, private-sector establishments employing three or more workers in marketing or sales roles will be required to meet the 60% Saudization target. Additionally, a minimum monthly wage of SAR 5,500 has been set for Saudi employees in these positions.

Targeted Professions and Implementation

The MHRSD has specified a range of professions covered by these new Saudization rates. For marketing roles, the targeted positions include:

• Marketing manager
• Advertising manager
• Advertising agent
• Graphic designer
• Advertising designer
• Public relations specialist
• Marketing specialist
• Public relations manager
• Photographer

In the sales sector, the mandate applies to roles such as:

• Sales manager
• Retail sales representative
• Wholesale sales representative
• Sales representative
• ICT equipment sales specialist
• Sales specialist
• Commercial specialist
• Commodity broker

Companies have been granted a three-month grace period from the announcement date to adjust their workforce structures and ensure compliance with the new requirements.

Vision 2030 and Workforce Development

This expansion of the Saudization program, also known as Nitaqat, aligns with Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on expatriate workers by increasing the employment of Saudi nationals in the private sector.

The MHRSD emphasized that these decisions are based on analytical studies of labor market needs, considering the number of job seekers in relevant fields and the current and future demands of the marketing and sales sectors.

To support private-sector establishments in meeting these new targets, the ministry has outlined a package of incentives. These include assistance with recruitment, training, qualification, and programs designed to promote job stability. Companies will also receive priority access to initiatives offered by the Human Resources Development Fund (Hadaf).