• Saudi ministries announce increased localization rates for four health professions
• Changes effective from April 17, 2025, in major cities and large facilities
• Nationwide implementation set for October 17, 2025
• Aims to create more jobs for Saudi nationals and improve healthcare quality
RIYADH. In a significant move to strengthen its healthcare workforce, Saudi Arabia has unveiled new Saudization quotas for private sector health professions. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, has set higher mandatory localization rates for radiology, medical laboratory, therapeutic nutrition, and physiotherapy roles. Starting April 17, 2025, the localization rates will increase to:
1. Radiology: 65%
2. Medical Laboratory: 70%
3. Therapeutic Nutrition: 80%
4. Physiotherapy: 80%
The initial phase will focus on major cities (Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, Dammam, and Alkhobar) and large healthcare facilities in other regions. By October 17, 2025, these quotas will extend nationwide, covering all healthcare facilities.
This initiative builds on previous efforts, such as the 35% localization rate for dental professions implemented in March 2024. The government aims to create more employment opportunities for Saudi citizens while enhancing the quality of private sector healthcare services. Businesses failing to meet these localization quotas may face financial penalties. This policy underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to developing a skilled national workforce in critical healthcare sectors, aligning with broader economic diversification goals.