Saudization (Nitaqat) in Saudi Arabia: how the quota works
Saudization (Nitaqat) is Saudi Arabia's policy requiring private-sector employers to employ a share of Saudis in their workforce.
How the quota is set
Nitaqat grades each establishment by its economic activity and its size, and places it in a colour-coded band, from Platinum down to Red, according to its share of Saudi employees. There is no flat Saudisation target for the whole economy.
Why there is no single percentage
The share of Saudis a company must employ depends on its sector and its size, so a figure quoted for one business does not carry over to another. Confirm your establishment's requirement with the authority before relying on any number.
Tracking your ratio
AhlanHamad counts your Saudis and your total active workforce, including staff on probation, as you hire and as people leave, so your current share is always up to date.
General information, not legal advice. Quotas change by decision of the authority; confirm your establishment's requirement before acting.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Saudization (Nitaqat) percentage in Saudi Arabia?
There is no single percentage. Nitaqat grades each establishment by its economic activity and its size, and places it in a colour-coded band, from Platinum down to Red, according to its share of Saudi employees. There is no flat Saudisation target for the whole economy.
Who enforces Saudization (Nitaqat) in Saudi Arabia?
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD), through the Nitaqat programme.
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