The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations aimed at improving training and employment for Saudi graduates and job seekers. Ministerial Decision No. 116264, enacted on 17 February 2026, outlines specific responsibilities for organizations to facilitate effective training programs. This initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which seeks to enhance workforce skills and increase employment rates.
Training Requirements for Establishments
Organizations with a workforce of 50 or more employees are mandated to provide on-the-job training for Saudi nationals. For companies that employ between 50 and 4,999 individuals, the requirement is to train a minimum of 2% of their total staff each year. Larger enterprises with 5,000 or more employees must ensure that at least 100 trainees are trained on an annual basis. It’s important to note that these figures encompass both Saudi nationals and expatriates engaged in full-time work.
Employer Obligations
Employers have several responsibilities to fulfill under the Training Decision. First, they must create a structured on-the-job training plan that outlines specific objectives and tasks. Moreover, they need to advertise available training opportunities fairly and document all aspects of the training contract. This contract must be registered on the Qiwa portal, a key component of the implementation process.
Additionally, employers are required to adhere to certain provisions of Saudi labor laws, which include regulations regarding annual leave, public holidays, maximum working hours, and safety protocols. When it comes to supervision, employers must ensure that a qualified individual monitors the training process, guiding trainees in acquiring essential skills and knowledge. Upon completion of the training, a certificate must be issued detailing the duration, profession, and skills learned during the program.
Trainee Responsibilities
Trainees also have obligations to uphold during their training experience. They are expected to adhere to the terms of the training contract, perform their assigned tasks diligently, maintain confidentiality regarding the company’s information, and follow established health and safety guidelines. Understanding these mutual responsibilities is critical for fostering a successful training environment.
Preparation for Implementation
The provisions of the Training Decision will be enforced starting 18 April 2026. To ensure compliance, Saudi employers must assess their current workforce to determine the necessary trainee intake. It is advisable for organizations to devise effective strategies for attracting and recruiting Saudi national graduates and job seekers.
Additionally, developing structured, competency-based on-the-job training programs will be vital. Employers should also take the time to familiarize themselves with the functionality of the Qiwa portal and the ins and outs of the training contract submission process. By taking these proactive steps, employers can successfully integrate the new training requirements while contributing to the overall enhancement of the Saudi workforce. This strategic alignment not only supports individual career growth but also strengthens the national economy in the long run.