Saudi Arabia to Require 70% Saudization in Project Manage

Saudi Arabia to Require 70% Localization in Project Management Roles

New Saudization requirement targets specialised private-sector positions

Saudi Arabia will introduce a 70% Saudization requirement for project-management professions from 14 February 2027.

The requirement will cover roles including project-management directors, engineers and specialists. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development said the policy is intended to increase participation by Saudi nationals in specialised private-sector jobs and encourage companies to invest more in training and professional development.

The move is part of Saudi Arabia’s wider Vision 2030 workforce strategy. The Kingdom has already introduced higher localization requirements across procurement, tourism, marketing, sales and other specialised professions.

For businesses, the change means companies operating in project development, construction, engineering, infrastructure and consulting will need to review their workforce plans well ahead of the 2027 implementation date.