More jobs off-limits to expats

Jeddah, Aug 16: The Labor Ministry has banned issuance of permanent, temporary or seasonal visas to expats for a number of professions.

According to reports in the local newspapers, a number of professions have been added to the reserved category. Jobs in these particular professions have to be carried out only by Saudis.

The ministry identified 19 job titles that are off-limits to expatriates. Among them are chief administrator of human resources at government and private sector companies, head of personnel department, director of labor affairs, director of personnel relations, employment clerk, time-keeper, receptionist (general), receptionist (hotel), receptionist (hospitals), cashier and typist.

The ministry has banned renewal of work permits for expatriates doing jobs that are reserved for Saudis. The ministry ordered companies not to transfer the services of such expats to other companies.

The ministry said the measures are in line with the government’s drive to replace expats with Saudis in any job categories as part of the nationalization campaign and with a view to check the high amount of remittances by foreigners.