Saudi marketUpdated November 3
Saudi Nitaqat counting thresholds will rise in two stages.
Saudi Arabia’s Nitaqat program counts Saudi employees toward employers’ localization ratios; the new thresholds change that calculation, not the minimum salary required of every private-sector worker. The Saudi Press Agency said the measure, directed by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques based on what the Crown Prince presented, is intended to enhance wage levels and support sustainable employment for citizens in the private sector. Okaz cited labor-law and human-resources expert Dr. Khalid Rashad Khayat for the detailed bands. From 25 April 2027, earnings below SAR 4,000 will not count; SAR 4,000 to below SAR 5,000 will count as half a worker; and SAR 5,000 or more as a full worker. From 25 April 2028, earnings below SAR 5,000 will not count; SAR 5,000 to below SAR 6,000 will count as half; and SAR 6,000 or more as a full worker. The dates also coincide with separate changes to the HRDF Employment Support Product wage subsidies, which are distinct from Nitaqat counting.
Coverage started November 3