Riyadh, March 26, 2023

Saudi Arabia’s higher authorities have approved a new policy that will allow the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development to employ companions of expatriate workers in the Kingdom. This includes the husbands or wives of expatriates who are accompanying them in the Kingdom, as well as a mahram (close blood relative) of expatriate working women.

This decision is part of the expansion of economic activities and professions in the Kingdom, and was made after the Ministry presented a report on the potential impact of allowing the employment of male and female companions of expatriate workers.

However, there are certain conditions that must be met in order for these companions to be employed. They must be qualified in various specializations and fields required for the job, and their appointment must be an alternative to recruitment for an actually required job vacancy. Additionally, the terms and conditions of the Nitaqat Saudization program must be compatible with the appointment.

The employer of the companion must also fulfill all the conditions for recruitment and for practicing the profession. The companions must have passed the qualifying tests prescribed for practicing the profession in the Kingdom, as required by the government.

It is important to note that companions cannot be employed in jobs that are reserved for Saudi men and women according to the lists available at the Ministry. This policy aims to provide more job opportunities for expatriates in the Kingdom and boost the economy.

Source: Saudi Gazette