RIYADH: Saudi consultants and project managers are expected to see a surge in numbers as the localization plan for the Kingdom’s consulting sector enters into its second phase.
This follows the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s 2022 decision to increase Saudization efforts across all professions within the advisory industry, encompassing financial, business, and cybersecurity consultants, as well as project managers, project management engineers, and project management specialists.
The initial phase of the decision, targeting the localization of 35 percent of these professions, was implemented on March 4, 2023.
Now, the ministry has announced the commencement of the second phase, aiming to localize 40 percent of consulting services professions, effective from March 25.
According to a statement from the government department, this decision aligns with the ministry’s efforts to provide more motivated and productive employment opportunities for citizens across the Kingdom.
The ministry emphasized its commitment to closely monitor and implement the second phase to enhance Saudi involvement in the labor market. This collaborative endeavor will involve partnering with key entities such as the Ministry of Finance, the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority, the Government Expenditure and Projects Efficiency Authority, and the Human Resources Development Fund.
In its statement, the ministry elaborated on the opportunities available to private sector establishments, emphasizing that they can benefit from its comprehensive incentives and support programs designed to facilitate the hiring of Saudis. These programs encompass various aspects such as recruitment, candidate search, necessary training, and ongoing support for job retention.
The ministry has issued procedural guidelines explaining the details of the decision, its implementation, and the support and employment programs provided to private sector establishments.
HRSD had issued several decisions aiming at nationalizing a number of professions and economic activities — including licensed aviation professions, opticians, periodic inspection activity, postal service outlets, and more.
In its pursuit of Vision 2030 goals, Saudi Arabia is not only encouraging the recruitment of nationals to private sector jobs but also advocating for adequate investment in their future. This investment aims to ensure their retention by employers and their contribution to a vibrant and diverse economy.
