Saudi Arabia tightens rules on job titles held by foreign workers

Saudi Arabia has suspended changes to selected job titles held by foreign workers, tightening controls on senior and commercial roles as part of its labour market reforms. According to a Gulf News report, the move, reflected on the government’s Qiwa platform, limits employers’ ability to reclassify certain positions that are now reserved for Saudi nationals.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has paused the service that allows job title amendments for roles such as general manager, sales representative, marketing specialist and procurement manager. The restriction applies to private-sector employers seeking to update occupational classifications for non-Saudi staff.

Changes implemented through Qiwa

Qiwa, operated by the ministry, is the main digital platform that regulates private-sector employment in the Kingdom. It manages employment contracts, job titles and workforce mobility, and serves as the official channel for labour-related services.


The suspension on job title changes has been implemented through recent updates on the platform, according to official information.

Focus on senior and commercial roles

The measure targets positions considered senior or commercially sensitive. Authorities are seeking closer alignment between job titles and actual responsibilities, while ensuring that roles reserved for nationals are not reassigned through administrative changes.

The step follows earlier decisions to increase national participation in sectors such as marketing and sales.

No timeline on further changes

The ministry has not clarified whether the suspension is temporary or if more professions will be added to the restricted list. No guidance has been issued on when, or if, the service for affected job titles will be restored.

The move forms part of broader efforts to tighten labour market controls and advance national workforce goals under Saudi Arabia’s ongoing reforms.