New Saudization Rules for Engineers and Accountants

New workforce-localization requirements are being applied to engineering and accounting professions in the private sector and nonprofit establishments across the Kingdom, setting minimum Saudization rates, minimum wages, and professional accreditation conditions for workers to count toward the quotas.

Engineering professions

A 30% Saudization rate applies to private-sector and nonprofit establishments employing five or more engineers across 46 specified engineering occupations. To count toward the quota, a Saudi engineer must be professionally accredited by the Saudi Council of Engineers and must have a monthly wage of at least SAR 8,000 registered with the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI). The requirement takes effect after a six-month preparation period ending June 30, 2026, and compliance is ongoing with no stated individual permit-validity period.

Accounting professions

The first phase requires 40% Saudization for establishments with five or more employees across 44 specified accounting occupations, starting October 27, 2025. The rate rises to 50% on October 27, 2026, with later phases lifting it to 70%. A Saudi accountant counts only if accredited and registered in the relevant professional system, with a GOSI-registered monthly wage of at least SAR 6,000 for a bachelor's degree holder or SAR 4,500 for a diploma holder.

What it means for the community

Employers generally update employee occupations, contracts, wages, and localization data through Qiwa and GOSI, while professional accreditation is handled through the Saudi Council of Engineers for engineers and the relevant authority for accountants. Qiwa registration is generally free, and no mandatory localization-quota fee was identified for either profession. The changes expand career opportunities for qualified Saudi professionals while giving businesses a clear timeline to prepare.

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