Table of Contents
Introduction: Saudization
Saudi Arabia has made changes to its work rules. The government now wants more jobs for Saudi citizens. This plan is called Saudization. It means that some jobs are only for Saudis. Let’s learn more about it!
What is Saudization?
Saudization is a plan by the Saudi government. The goal is to give more work opportunities to Saudi people. It helps lower the number of people looking for work. The government also wants the economy to be strong without depending only on workers from other countries.
What is Iqama?
Iqama is a special permit for people from other countries working in Saudi Arabia. With the new rules, some jobs that need an Iqama can now only be done by Saudis. This means that if someone from another country works in these jobs, they might need to change their work or leave their job.
Jobs Reserved Only for Saudis
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) has a list of 100 jobs that are now for Saudis only. Here are some examples from the list:
- Cashier
- Tourist Program Designer
- HR Manager
- Receptionist (in hotels, hospitals, and offices)
- Security Guard
- Sales and Marketing Representative
- Room Service Manager
- Customer Service Manager
- Real Estate Broker
- Air Controller
There are many more jobs on the list. If an expatriate (a person from another country) works in any of these roles, they may have to choose a different job or leave their position.
What Does This Mean for Expatriates?
- Expats cannot renew their Iqama if they work in these jobs.
- They must change to a different job that is not reserved for Saudis.
- Some expats might decide to leave their work and find another opportunity.

Conclusion: Saudization
Saudization is a plan to give more job chances to Saudi citizens. The Saudi government has decided that many jobs will be only for locals. For people working from other countries, this means they might need to find new work. The plan is meant to help build a stronger and more self-reliant Saudi economy. Understanding these changes is important for everyone living and working in Saudi Arabia.
Read: Check Iqama Expiry Date: 4 Methods