Higher localization rates in four health professions of Saudi private sector from April 17, 2025

With effect from April 17, 2025, the Saudi Ministries of Health and Human Resources and Social Development declared that they will raise the localisation rates in four health-related fields in the private sector. The Saudization rate in the fields of radiology, medical laboratories, therapeutic nutrition, and physical therapy will rise to 65%, 70%, and 80%, respectively. This will go into effect on April 17 of the next year, six months after the decision is announced, and it would first affect all hospitals and other healthcare institutions in the main cities of Madinah, Jeddah, Dammam, Al-Khobar, and Riyadh. 

The second phase will start on October 17, 2025, and Saudization tariffs would apply to all healthcare institutions in the country. 

The resolution also intends to make it possible for national cadres working in the health sector to find desirable and high-quality employment opportunities within the Kingdom.

In addition to the priority of taking advantage of all localisation support programs available in the system, as well as support and employment programs through the Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF), private sector establishments will also benefit from the incentives and support programs offered by the Human Resources and Social Development System to assist establishments in employing Saudis. 

On its website, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development published a procedural guide that explains the specifics of localisation, vocations, and necessary percentages. The ministry emphasised that to avoid the regulatory fines that will be levied on those who violate the regulations, establishments must comply with them and put them into practice.