Saudi Arabia raises mandatory localization rates in 4 health professions

Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the Ministry of Health announce higher localization rates in four private sector health professions. (Shutterstock)
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  • It is part of efforts by the two ministries to create improved job opportunities for male and female citizens across the Kingdom

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the Ministry of Health have announced higher mandatory localization rates in four private sector health professions.

Effective from April 17 next year, the mandatory localization rate in radiology will be raised to 65 percent, medical laboratory to 70 percent, therapeutic nutrition to 80 percent and physiotherapy to 80 percent.

This will initially apply to all facilities in major cities — Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, Dammam and Alkhobar — and to large facilities in other regions.

During the second phase, which will start on Oct. 17, 2025, the new mandatory localization rates will cover all facilities nationwide.

Businesses that fail to meet Saudi localization quotas are subject to fines.

It aligns with the Kingdom’s efforts to make more employment opportunities available for Saudi nationals and enhance the quality of healthcare in the private sector.

In March this year, the two ministries began implementing a mandatory 35 percent localization rate in dental professions, with resolution effective from March 10.

They also applied localization ratios to private sector establishments employing three or more workers in dental professions.

It is part of efforts by the two ministries to create improved job opportunities for male and female citizens across the Kingdom.