By eSEO Solutions on June 14, 2026 in Human Resource Services
Saudi Arabia has introduced new Qiwa employment contract updates specifically affecting Saudi nationals, and employers should pay close attention.
Here are the key changes:
- Saudi employees can complete a maximum of 7 employment contracts within 365 days.
- Employees are allowed to hold up to 2 active contracts at the same time.
- To sign another contract beyond this limit, one existing contract must first be terminated.
- Companies are also expected to maintain higher Qiwa contract documentation compliance.
- Missing or undocumented contracts may impact Saudization calculations and access to labor services.
For HR teams and employers in Saudi Arabia, keeping Qiwa records accurate and updated is becoming increasingly important.
At Innovation-sa, we help businesses stay compliant with Qiwa regulations, Saudization requirements, and labor law updates across Saudi Arabia. For more information on how we can support you, please contact us at Info@innovation-sa.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many employment contracts can a Saudi national sign per year?
A: Under the new Qiwa rules, Saudi nationals may complete a maximum of 7 employment contracts within any 365 days.
Q: What happens if employment contracts are not documented on Qiwa?
A: Undocumented contracts are excluded from Saudization (Nitaqat) calculations and may result in restricted access to MHRSD labor services.
Q: What is the required Qiwa documentation compliance rate in 2026?
A: 85% by April 30, 2026 and 90% by June 30, 2026 per the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
Q: Does Qiwa contract documentation affect Saudization percentage?
A: Yes. From April 15, 2026, only Saudi employees with Qiwa-documented contracts count toward a company’s official Nitaqat Saudization band.
