Saudi Arabia's new tourism localization drive mandates Saudi receptionists

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has issued new regulations to increase the localization of the tourism sector, requiring more Saudi nationals to be employed across hospitality establishments. The move aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy and expand job opportunities for citizens.

The measures, approved by Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb, were announced by the Saudi Press Agency on Wednesday. The ministry said the new rules are designed to improve service quality and ensure compliance with Saudization targets.

Under the new regulations:

• All tourism and hospitality facilities must have a Saudi receptionist present during working hours.
• Employees must be registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development before starting work.
• All employment contracts, including contractual, seconded and seasonal, must be documented through the Ajeer platform or other approved systems.
• Companies operating multiple branches must link workers to the specific facility file tied to each tourism license.
• Jobs covered by Saudization rules cannot be outsourced to entities or workers outside the Kingdom.
• Outsourcing is allowed only through establishments licensed by the Ministry of Tourism or by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

The ministry said compliance will be strictly monitored, with penalties for violators. It described the regulations as part of broader efforts to increase the share of citizens in the tourism workforce and open new roles, including management and graduate-level positions.

Earlier this year, the ministry raised wage subsidies for Saudi employees in the tourism sector from 30 percent to 50 percent and extended financial support to 43 tourism-related professions to make the sector more attractive to local workers.