Saudi labor ministry Saudizes several accommodation jobs

Minister of Labor and Social Development Ahmed Al Rajhi has issued a decree nationalizing several managerial and specialized jobs in the tourism accommodation sector.

The decision will come into effect starting Dec. 28, 2019 for operating and specialized jobs, June 22, 2020 for supervisors and assistant managers, and Dec. 16, 2020 for managers. 

The nationalization move covers three-star hotels and higher, resorts, hotel apartments, and hotel villas categorized as four-star accommodation and higher.

Under the decision, jobs in booking, marketing and front offices will be 100 percent Saudized, with the exception of bell boys, valet, drivers and doormen.

Full Saudization of jobs in the accommodation sector will also include assistant hotel managers, assistant IT directors, sales managers and their assistants, administrative delegates, sales representatives, health club supervisors, hotel service managers, consignees, room service attendants, restaurants and café hosts, tourism information clerks, executive secretaries, administrative clerks, administrative officers, and management coordinators.

Meanwhile, several jobs will be 70 percent nationalized, including managers in sales, as well as events and conferences.

Also, at least one Saudi per facility -- when applicable – should be hired in the following occupations: food and beverage room service, events, and laundry supervisors.

As per the decision, business owners are prohibited from recruiting, transferring, assigning or employing expatriates in the previously mentioned positions, as violators will be penalized.