Saudi Arabia’s profession-specific Saudization quotas apply on top of the Nitaqat band. 69 administrative support roles (HR, recruitment, reception) are set at 100%, with inspections begun on 4 October 2026. Further deadlines: accounting at 50% (firms with 5 or more accountants) on 27 October 2026; gym roles at 15% on 18 November 2026; project management at 70% on 14 February 2027.
What it means for you: expats in admin, HR and reception roles face the highest displacement risk; expats elsewhere should check whether their Qiwa occupation code is on a quota list.
Source (citing MHRSD announcements): https://blog.zenhr.com/en/8-gcc-labor-law-changes-hr-teams-should-know-before-2027. Related: Resigning in Saudi Arabia — Article 79 Bis.