Tourism Jobs Reserved for Saudi Citizens
Saudi Arabia has made a big change to how tourism businesses work. The Ministry of Tourism has said that some jobs in the tourism industry must now be given directly to Saudi citizens. Companies can no longer hire people for these jobs through third-party staffing agencies or outsource them.
This new rule is a big step toward helping Saudi citizens and making sure they have more chances in the country’s growing tourism industry.
What has changed?
In the past, a hotel, resort, or travel agency could win a contract, but instead of hiring their own staff, they would hire another company to do the work. For instance, a hotel might hire another company to provide receptionists, tour guides, or staff to help guests.
Now, a tourism company must hire people for these jobs directly under its own name in order to do business. This way, the workers are officially part of the company they work for, not just “borrowed” from somewhere else.
What jobs are covered?
The ban applies to 21 specific jobs in hotels, resorts, and travel agencies. These are:
- There are many jobs in hotels and resorts, such as hotel managers, front desk receptionists, guest relations officers, event managers, and food and beverage managers.
- Tourism and travel jobs include tour guides, reservation agents, travel consultants, and managers of tourism offices.
In short, all of the important “face of the company” jobs that deal with customers directly must now be filled by Saudis.
Why Did Saudi Arabia Set This Rule?
This change is part of Saudi Vision 2030, which is the country’s plan for long-term growth. Saudi Arabia wants to grow its tourism industry, and it’s very important that local people are at the center of this industry.
More Jobs for People in Saudi Arabia – By reserving these jobs, Saudi citizens can get direct access to stable and respected jobs in tourism. This helps lower the unemployment rate and makes sure that people in the area benefit from the growth of the industry.
Better Career Growth: When hotels or travel agencies hire Saudis directly, they receive more than just short-term jobs; they receive long-term career opportunities. This helps make the tourism industry have a strong and professional local workforce.
What happens if businesses don’t obey the rule?
The issue is a very serious matter for the government. Companies that break the rule will face harsh punishments. They won’t be able to get new tourism licenses or renew the ones they already have. This means that they won’t be able to work in the field legally until they do what they need to do.
Some Final Words
One of the fastest-growing industries in Saudi Arabia is tourism. Millions of people are expected to visit in the coming years because of new attractions, big projects, and interest from around the world. The government is making sure that Saudis get the most benefit from these jobs by making sure that they go to local people.
It’s not just about rules; it’s also about making the future of Saudi Arabia’s workforce better and giving people real chances.
👉 In short, you can’t outsource 21 tourism jobs. Companies have to hire Saudis directly. This means more jobs, better career growth, and a tourism industry that is run by Saudis for Saudis.
