New Regulations Boost Employment in Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Sector

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb, has recently approved a series of new policies aimed at transforming the tourism workforce landscape across the Kingdom. These regulations are designed to promote local employment and enhance the overall quality of service in tourism facilities.

A Significant Step for National Employment

This initiative represents a crucial step in Saudi Arabia’s broader commitment to increasing citizen participation in the job market, particularly within the tourism sector. The move aligns closely with the objectives set out in Saudi Vision 2030, focusing on empowering national talent and improving service standards across the industry.

Enhancing Local Talent Engagement

Developed in partnership with various government bodies, these policies intend to create a variety of stimulating job opportunities for Saudi nationals. This includes leadership roles as well as positions tailored for recent graduates, which aim to elevate local talent within the rapidly expanding tourism industry. By doing so, Saudi Arabia is taking significant strides toward its goal of economic diversification, ensuring sustainable and high-value career paths for its citizens.

Key Requirements for Tourism Facilities

The new regulations apply to all activities licensed by the Ministry of Tourism and impose several key obligations on tourism facilities:

• Mandatory Employee Registration: All employees must be registered within the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s systems before starting their employment.

• Documentation of Employment Contracts: All forms of employment—be it contractual, seconded, or seasonal—must be logged through the Ajeer platform or any other authorized system.

• Branch-Specific Registration: Establishments with multiple branches are required to register personnel against the facility file linked to each specific tourism license.

• Saudi Representatives: To reinforce the Kingdom’s commitment to its values of hospitality, each tourism facility must ensure there is a Saudi receptionist on duty during business hours.

• Outsourcing Rules: The regulations strictly prohibit outsourcing jobs subject to Saudization mandates to foreign entities. Only entities licensed by the Ministry of Tourism or the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development are permitted to carry out such work.

Monitoring Compliance and Enforcement

The Ministry of Tourism has stated that compliance with these new regulations will be closely monitored. Establishments found violating these rules will face penalties, underscoring the importance of adherence. Inspections will be conducted in collaboration with relevant government agencies to ensure that all tourism facilities comply with the new requirements.

A Comprehensive Workforce Strategy

These policies are part of a larger strategy aimed at professionalizing the tourism workforce. The intention is to protect job opportunities for Saudi citizens and guarantee that tourism establishments maintain consistent service standards. This initiative is essential as Saudi Arabia continues to elevate its profile on the global tourism stage.

By investing in local talent and enforcing clear regulations, the Kingdom is not only fostering job growth but also enhancing its appeal as a top-tier travel destination.