Workforce localisation quotas
Saudization, Emiratisation and other quotas for hiring local nationals.
4 briefs
Today · Monday 26 October
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
Saudi HR Ministry: Five worker categories covered by Nitaqat wage hike to SR6,000
Saudi Deputy HR Minister Abdullah Abuthnain said the Nitaqat Saudization wage threshold hike covers five worker categories: full-time, part-time, flexible-arrangement employees, part-time students, and disabled workers able to work. It will roll out in two phases: SR5,000 from April 25, 2027, rising to SR6,000 from April 25, 2028, with grace periods for employers.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
Saudi Arabia announces SR500 monthly financial support increase for retirees
Saudi King Salman approved on October 25, 2026, a financial relief package granting retirees and eligible beneficiaries of deceased Social Insurance subscribers or retirees a monthly allowance increase of SAR500, ahead of electricity and water tariff changes from January 1, 2027. The directive, proposed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also raises private-sector minimum wage thresholds under Saudization rules.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
UAE issues guidance on 12 work permit categories, fines for misuse up to Dh1 million
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation published guidance in October 2026 covering 12 work permit categories. Employers who use a permit outside its approved purpose face fines ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million. The categories include standard recruitment, transfers, family-sponsored residents, temporary and part-time permits, affecting foreign workers including Kenyans.
Yesterday · Sunday 25 October
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
UAE warns employers of five labour violations carrying fines up to Dh1 million
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation issued a sweeping warning on October 23, 2026, identifying five categories of labour law violations that carry fines of Dh100,000 to Dh1 million (about KSh 3.5 million to KSh 35 million) for private companies. The crackdown targets sectors like construction, hospitality, retail, security and domestic service that rely on migrant workers, including many from Kenya.