Dependents of expatriate workers in Saudi Arabia have officially gained the right to work across various professions. This transition is supported by a new decision from the Saudi Council of Ministers aimed at systematically integrating this group into the labor market.
New Financial Framework for Employment
The Saudi Council of Ministers has granted the Ministry of Human Resources the authority to determine the financial fees associated with employing dependents within private sector establishments. This regulatory shift is designed to formalize the participation of these individuals in the workforce.
Collaborative Fee Determination
The determination of these financial fees involves a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the Ministry of Finance. The Non-Oil Revenue Development Center as well participates in this process.
Requirements and Compliance
While previous instructions had already acknowledged the right of this group to work, current guidelines stipulate that such employment must serve as a direct alternative to recruiting from abroad.
any establishment employing dependents must ensure its activities comply with the regulations of the Nitaqat program. Full adherence to approved recruitment conditions remains mandatory.
Economic and Social Implications
The decision, which entered into force in the past few days, aims to expand the participation of expatriate dependents across a wide range of professions and economic activities.
Authorities expect that this move may improve the living conditions of expatriate workers by providing legal employment opportunities for their families. Such integration is likely to support labor market efficiency in alignment with economic development goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is now officially permitted to work in various professions in Saudi Arabia?
The right to work has been officially extended to the male and female dependents of expatriate workers.
What is the condition regarding the financial fee for employing dependents?
The fee must be identical to the fee imposed on expatriate workers themselves in private sector establishments to ensure financial fairness.
What are the primary requirements for a company to hire a dependent?
The employment must be a direct alternative to recruiting from abroad, and the establishment must comply with Nitaqat program regulations and approved recruitment conditions.
How do you think the integration of expatriate dependents will impact the private sector’s recruitment strategies?
