Tourism Ministry Implements New Policies For Worker Registration And Localisation In Licensed Facilities

The Ministry of Tourism has introduced new guidelines for registering workers and localising activities in licensed tourism facilities throughout Saudi Arabia. This initiative aims to boost employment opportunities for citizens, empower national talent in the tourism sector, and improve service quality. The ministry outlined that these policies define the requirements and procedures for localising activities and registering workers according to the issued decision.

All economic activities licensed by the Ministry of Tourism under the National Classification for Economic Activities are covered by these new rules. According to the approved regulations, tourism facilities must register all employees with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development before they start work. Employee contracts must be documented under contracting, secondment, or seasonal work systems through the "Ajeer" platform or other approved platforms.

Facilities with multiple licensed branches are required to register their workers in the file linked to each facility’s tourism license within the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s systems. This ensures that all employees are accounted for under the correct facility's license.

The policies also prohibit outsourcing professions subject to Saudization decisions to entities or workers outside Saudi Arabia. Any outsourcing must be directed to establishments licensed by either the Ministry of Tourism or the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development to employ Saudi workers. This measure supports local employment and aligns with national Saudization goals.

Furthermore, it is mandatory for a Saudi receptionist to be present during working hours in all tourism and hospitality facilities. This requirement underscores the commitment to increasing Saudi participation in key roles within the industry.

Enforcement and Monitoring

The Ministry of Tourism emphasised strict adherence to these policies and rules. Violations will be monitored in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. This joint effort aims to ensure compliance across all tourism facilities, maintaining standards and supporting national employment objectives.

With inputs from SPA