Saudi Arabia Announces New Saudization Targets for Key Professions Under Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia is taking significant steps to boost job opportunities for its citizens in key sectors like dentistry, pharmacy, accounting, and technical engineering. As part of the Vision 2030 initiative, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD), in collaboration with other governmental bodies, has announced new Saudization targets aimed at increasing local employment in these fields.

Pharmacy Sector

Starting July 27, 2025, community pharmacies and medical complexes will need to ensure that 35% of their workforce consists of Saudi nationals. Hospitals are expected to achieve a 65% Saudization rate, while other pharmacy-related businesses should reach 55%. These requirements apply to establishments with five or more pharmacy professionals.

Dentistry Profession

The Saudization plan for dentistry will be implemented in two phases. The first phase, beginning on July 27, 2025, requires a 45% Saudization rate, which will increase to 55% in the following year. This applies to dental practices with three or more professionals, with a minimum salary of SAR 9,000 for dentists to be counted within the Saudization quota.

Accounting Field

From October 27, 2025, businesses with five or more accountants will need to meet a 40% Saudization target, with plans to gradually increase this rate to 70% over the next five years.

Technical Engineering Roles

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Effective July 27, 2025, companies employing five or more technical engineers are required to achieve a 30% Saudization rate.

These initiatives are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil revenues. By localizing key professions, the Kingdom seeks to create more job opportunities for its citizens and build a more sustainable economic future.

For businesses operating in these sectors, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes and plan accordingly to ensure compliance with the new Saudization targets.