Saudization Updates: Latest MHRSD Decisions and Deadlines
The latest Saudization milestones are the end of the administrative support grace period on 4 October 2026, accounting rising to 50% on 27 October 2026, the 15% rule for gyms and sports centers from 18 November 2026, tourism phase 2 from 3 January 2027 and the 70% project management rule from 14 February 2027.
Each update explains one dated Saudization milestone: what changed, who it affects and what employers should do. For every change and correction in one place, see the changes tracker.
Latest updates
| Date | Update |
|---|---|
| 4 Oct 2026 | Administrative support Saudization: phase 2 deadline |
| 27 Oct 2026 | Accounting Saudization: 50% phase |
| 18 Nov 2026 | Gym and sports center Saudization: 15% starts |
| 3 Jan 2027 | Tourism Saudization phase 2 |
| 14 Feb 2027 | Project management Saudization: 70% rule |
Plan around these dates with the Saudization calendar and the 2027 outlook.
How often do Saudization requirements change?
MHRSD issues localization decisions throughout the year, usually with an announcement, a grace period and phased effective dates. In 2026, new rules took effect from January through June, and more dates run to 2028. The calendar lists them all, and the changes tracker logs each decision with its source.
Frequently asked questions
01How often do Saudization requirements change?
MHRSD issues localization decisions throughout the year, usually with an announcement, a grace period and phased effective dates. In 2026 alone, new rules took effect from January through June, and further dates run to 2028. The Saudization calendar and the changes tracker list every current date.
Sources
- BAL: Grace period for full Saudization of administrative support professions ends October 4. BAL, 2026.
- Envoy Global: Saudization rules announced for sports centers. Envoy Global, 13 January 2026.
- MHRSD: Procedural guide, localization of the tourism sector. Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, 2025-04.
- MHRSD: 70% Saudization rate for project management professions. Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, 16 August 2026.