Iqama Professions Exclusively Reserved for Saudi Nationals in 2023

Introduction: Reserved Iqama Professions

In 2023, Saudi Arabia ushered in a transformative policy known as “Saudization,” capturing the spotlight both domestically and globally. This policy represents a deliberate effort to give precedence to Saudi nationals in the job market by designating specific professions and work opportunities exclusively for them. Throughout this article, we will comprehensively explore the details of this pivotal policy shift and examine the array of professions that now fall under the category of “Reserved Iqama Professions” for Saudi citizens.

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Understanding Saudization

Saudization, formally known as the Saudi nationalization scheme, is a strategic policy implemented by the Saudi government. Its primary objective is to increase the participation of Saudi citizens in the country’s labor market. This initiative holds immense significance, as it addresses several economic and social aspects of Saudi society. It’s designed to create more job opportunities for Saudi nationals, reduce unemployment rates, and elevate their role in shaping the nation’s economic landscape.

The Significance of Reserved Iqama Professions

Iqama, the Saudi residence permit, holds a crucial place in the lives of expatriates working in the country. It serves as the legal document allowing foreigners to live and work in Saudi Arabia. As part of the Saudization policy, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Advancement (MHRSD) has released a list of Iqama professions reserved exclusively for Saudi citizens. This move signifies a bold and impactful shift in the Saudi labor market, with the intention of increasing employment opportunities for the local population.

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The Impact on Expatriates

For expatriates employed in the reserved Iqama professions, this shift necessitates a change in their Iqama status. The once routine process of renewing their Iqama is no longer an available option. Instead, individuals in these professions now face a critical choice: they must either shift to a different job or decide to exit their current employment.

List of Reserved Iqama Professions for Saudi Citizens

The list of Reserved Iqama Professions for Saudi citizens in 2023 is extensive, covering a diverse range of job sectors. These include roles in customer service, clerical work, and various managerial positions. Here is a selection of the professions:

1. Cashier
2. Complaint Clerk or Claims Clerk
3. Booking Clerk
4. Customs Clearance Clerk
5. Director of Personnel Relations
6. Director of Labor Affairs
7. Reservation Agent
8. Tourist Program Designer
9. Duty Clerk or Attendance Control Clerk
10. Employment Clerk
11. Executive HR Manager
12. Female Sales Specialist for Ladies Shop
13. Head of Personnel Department
14. HR Manager
15. Senior HR Coordinator
16. Payroll Officer
17. HR Director
18. Compensation and Benefits Officer
19. Training Manager
20. Key Specialist
21. Labor Affairs Manager
22. Receptionist (General)
23. Receptionist (Hospitals)
24. Receptionist (Hotel)
25. Recruitment Clerk or Employment Clerk
26. Representative or Broker
27. Security Guard
28. Treasurer
29. Staff Affairs Clerk or Personal Affairs Clerk
30. Staff Relations Manager
31. Staff Relations Specialist
32. Individual Affairs Clerk
33. Timekeeper
34. Typist
35. Shops Selling Eyeglasses and Frames
36. Car Spare Parts Shop
37. Shops Selling Watches
38. Medical Appliances and Equipment Shops
39. Electrical Appliances and Electronic Shops
40. Building and Construction Material Shops
41. Shops Selling Carpets
42. Automobile and Motorbike Showrooms
43. Home and Office Furniture Shops
44. Readymade Garments, Children and Men’s Wear
45. Household Utensils Shops
46. Confectionery Shops and Patisseries
47. Light-Vehicle Driver
48. Order Taker
49. Safety and Security Officer
50. Safety and Security Supervisor
51. Food Service Employee
52. Telephone Operator
53. Supervisor of Telephone Operators
54. Data-Entry Clerk
55. Administrative Clerk
56. Secretary
57. General Services Supervisor
58. Room Service Supervisor
59. Maintenance Supervisor
60. Sales and Marketing Supervisor
61. Tourism Programs Supervisor
62. Front Office Supervisor
63. Director of Security and Safety
64. Acting Director
65. Maintenance Manager
66. Room Service Manager
67. Customer Service Manager
68. Administrative Manager
69. Sales and Marketing Representative
70. Director of Tourism Programs
71. Director of the Front Office
72. Director of Staff Relations
73. Health and Safety Professionals
74. Customer Care Service Officer at Call Centers
75. Translator
76. Stock Keeper
77. Real Estate Broker
78. Real Estate Sale and Rental Broker
79. Land and Real Estate Registry Clerk
80. Real Estate Marketer
81. Property Manager
82. Certified Sustainable Engineer
83. Certified Resident Engineer
84. Quality Inspector Engineer
85. Building Inspector
86. Real Estate Arbitrator
87. Government Relations Officer
88. General Manager
89. Customs Categorizer
90. Customs Clearance Broker
91. Copilot
92. Air Controller
93. Dispatcher
94. Meteorologist
95. Tourist Information Clerk
96. Call Center Clerk
97. Customer Service Center Inquiries Clerk
98. Query Clerk
99. Customer Data Clerk
100. ATV Splitter Operator

Conclusion

The 2023 Saudization policy, with its extensive list of Reserved Iqama Professions for Saudi citizens, marks a significant milestone in the transformation of the Saudi labor market. This strategic move is expected to enhance the participation of Saudi nationals in various job sectors, thus contributing to the nation’s overall economic growth and development. As the policy’s implementation progresses, the effects on expatriates and local employment rates are subjects of great interest and will continue to be closely monitored.

This comprehensive list of Reserved Iqama Professions for Saudi citizens reflects the commitment of the Saudi government to prioritize its own citizens in the workforce, and it remains a crucial aspect of the country’s journey toward economic diversification and growth.