Divyanshu G 
(C): Unsplash
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) has officially issued a directive to raise the Saudization target to 60% for marketing and sales jobs across the Kingdom. This is a strategic move effective as of January 19, 2026, and it covers all establishments that are in the private sector and which hire three or more workers in these professions. The project will empower the national talent by generating thousands of sustainable, high quality employment opportunities in the business sector. It has provided companies with three months to reorganize their workforce before stringent compliance inspections are enforced. This step is an acute one, in the roadmap of Vision 2030 to decrease unemployment and localize major economic areas.
Achieving the New Saudization Target in the Private Sector
The Ministry’s decision to enforce a 60% Saudization target is designed to overhaul the employment landscape for skilled professionals. The mandate encompasses a very broad range of jobs such as; marketing managers, graphic designers, public relations specialists and sales representatives. By setting this threshold, the MHRSD ensures that Saudi nationals are the primary drivers of the nation’s commercial growth. Companies that do not reach this quota past the grace period will be subject to penalties and limitation of government services so that there is a strong emphasis on the government ensuring that it is strictly enforced.
Read more: Highest Paying Jobs in Saudi Arabia 2025
Impact on Marketing and Sales Jobs and Wages
Beyond just headcount, the directive seeks to improve the quality of marketing and sales jobs. The MHRSD has stipulated a minimum monthly wage of SAR 5,500 for marketing roles to attract qualified local talent. This minimum wage will make the localisation of these occupations to make the Saudi families financially stable. According to the industry experts, it is expected that this policy would boost the process of training and upskilling the local workforce, such that they become competitive assets in the global market.
Official Updates: Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development Official X Account
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