The Ministry of Municipal Rural Affairs and Housing in partnership with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, announced the commencement to localize engineering professions by 25% as of July 21, 2024, in which localization rates will be applied to private sector establishments with five or more engineering professionals.

This decision comes as part of the two ministries' endeavors to provide more stimulating and productive job opportunities for male and female citizens in various regions of the Kingdom.

The Ministry of Municipal Rural Affairs and Housing indicated that it would work to follow up and implement this decision, which raises the level of participation in the labor market. MOMRAH as well will track the implementation of this decision so as to be appropriate with the work market requirements and engineering profession specialization.

The Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs and Housing has also emphasized that private sector establishments will benefit from the incentives and support programs provided by the Human Resources and Social Development system to assist establishments in employing Saudis. This includes: (supporting the recruitment and search process for suitable workers, supporting the necessary training and qualification process, and supporting the employment and job continuity process), in addition to prioritizing the utilization of all available localization support programs within the system, and support and employment programs through the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF).

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development issued a procedural manual clarifying the details of localization, professions and required ratios on the ministry's website. It also stresses the need for establishments to adhere to and comply with implementing provisions to avoid the statutory penalties that will be applied against violators.