41 Tourism Professions to Be Localised by 2028 in Saudi Private Sector

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, has announced the localisation of 41 professions across the tourism sector in private establishments, with implementation beginning in phases from April 22nd, 2026. The decision aims to expand employment opportunities for Saudi citizens and will affect leadership and specialised roles such as hotel managers, travel agency managers, tourism development specialists, site guides, and hotel receptionists.

The policy will roll out in three stages: the first in April 2026, the second in January 2027, and the third in January 2028. All private sector tourism businesses will be subject to the new requirements. A procedural guide outlining the targeted professions, Saudisation percentages, calculation methods, and penalties for non-compliance has been published on the ministry’s website.

The measure is part of ongoing efforts to restructure the labour market and increase citizen participation, aligning with broader economic reform goals under the Vision 2030 initiative.