Nitaqat Wage Threshold to Reach SAR 6,000 by 2028

A phased increase in the wage threshold used to count Saudi employees for Nitaqat purposes is scheduled over the coming years, affecting how private-sector companies in Saudi Arabia calculate their Saudization credit. The figure is set to reach SAR 6,000

It is important to understand what this change actually means. The widely mentioned SAR 6,000 figure is not a current 2026 minimum wage. Instead, it refers to the salary level at which a Saudi employee earns full credit in Nitaqat calculations.

How the change is phased

At present, the wage threshold for full Nitaqat/Saudization credit stands at SAR 4,000 Under the scheduled plan, the threshold will rise to SAR 5,000 on 25 April 2027, and then to SAR 6,000 on 25 April 2028.

Crucially, this adjustment concerns how Saudi employees are counted in Nitaqat calculations. It does not automatically require every employer to raise salaries to SAR 6,000. The impact will mainly be felt by companies in terms of how their Saudi workforce contributes to their Saudization status.

There is no fee, application, validity period, or any Absher or Muqeem procedure connected to this wage-threshold change. Employment compliance matters tied to Nitaqat are handled through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and Qiwa.

For employees and employers alike, planning ahead is sensible. Businesses may wish to review their payroll structures before the 2027 and 2028 dates to ensure their Saudi staff continue to count fully toward their Nitaqat band.

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