Saudi Arabia Introduces Comprehensive Staffing Framework for Tourism Sector to Handle Seasonal Demand, Protect Workers’ Rights and Support Economic Growth

Published on February 28, 2026

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Saudi Arabia is introducing a major upgrade to its tourism workforce management with the expanded use of the Ajeer platform, enabling hotels, tour operators, and other tourism businesses to hire temporary employees during high-demand periods such as Ramadan and the Hajj pilgrimage. Managed under the supervision of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD), the platform provides a fully regulated and efficient system for short-term staffing, helping tourism operators maintain service quality while complying with labor laws.

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The Ajeer platform has become the Kingdom’s central tool for temporary employment, particularly focused on critical tourism hubs like Makkah and Madinah. Businesses can access a pool of pre-verified local talent to fill short-term roles, ensuring operations continue smoothly during peak visitor seasons. Through the platform, establishments can post vacancies, issue legal work permits, and oversee workforce management digitally, creating a streamlined recruitment process for both employers and applicants.

The launch of the expanded system aligns with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s early release of Hajj visas, now issued four months ahead of the pilgrimage season—earlier than in previous years. This early approach prepares for the arrival of over one million pilgrims, helping authorities manage crowd flows, enhance safety measures, and ensure a seamless experience for all visitors.

Under the updated regulations, all temporary and seasonal employment must be processed through the Ajeer platform. This guarantees that contracts are officially documented, providing legal protection for both workers and employers. Informal hiring outside the system is strictly prohibited, reinforcing fair labor practices and transparency across the tourism sector. Job seekers can register with Ajeer to explore short-term opportunities and submit applications electronically, creating a secure and efficient channel for temporary employment.

The initiative also reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to strengthen Saudisation and tighten oversight of outsourcing practices. Licensed tourism operators are required to hire local talent and collaborate exclusively with staffing providers approved by either the Ministry of Tourism or the MHRSD. These measures support workforce localization while maintaining high operational standards, ensuring that tourism growth delivers both economic and social benefits.

The Kingdom’s tourism sector has continued its strong growth trajectory. In 2025, Saudi Arabia welcomed over 122 million domestic and international visitors, a 5% increase compared to the previous year. Spending within the sector rose 6% to SAR 300 billion (US$80 billion), while the contribution of tourism to GDP grew from 3.5% to 5%. These figures underscore the effectiveness of the Kingdom’s tourism strategies and its central role in Vision 2030, which aims to attract 150 million visitors annually by the end of the decade.

The expanded use of Ajeer equips tourism businesses with the tools needed to manage large-scale visitor flows effectively. The platform enables operators to meet temporary staffing requirements without compromising service standards, ensuring operational readiness and compliance with labor regulations. It also supports the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable growth, workforce modernization, and high-quality visitor experiences.

During peak travel periods such as Ramadan and Hajj, demand for temporary workers in hotels, restaurants, transport services, and other tourism-related establishments surges dramatically. Ajeer provides a flexible and reliable solution, allowing businesses to source skilled staff efficiently. The platform also helps track employment contracts, monitor compliance, and maintain detailed records, creating a transparent and accountable staffing environment.

By requiring all temporary hires to be registered through Ajeer, the Kingdom strengthens labor protections and ensures fair treatment for workers. Employers benefit from a legally compliant process, while workers gain confidence that their contracts are official and enforceable. This approach reduces the risks associated with informal employment and fosters a secure and well-regulated tourism workforce.

As Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry continues to grow, Ajeer’s role is set to expand further. Tourism operators increasingly depend on the platform to secure temporary staff and respond to fluctuations in visitor numbers efficiently. By integrating digital technology into workforce management, the Kingdom is improving operational efficiency, enhancing visitor satisfaction, and supporting local employment initiatives.

The Ajeer platform also directly supports Vision 2030 objectives, including job creation for Saudi nationals, sustainable tourism development, and elevating Saudi Arabia’s global profile as a destination. By combining workforce flexibility with regulatory compliance, the initiative ensures that tourism growth is both sustainable and beneficial to the local economy.

With upcoming peak travel periods, tourism businesses are expected to rely heavily on Ajeer to meet staffing demands efficiently. The platform guarantees that temporary employment is transparent, legally compliant, and aligned with national employment priorities, while supporting operational effectiveness and quality standards across the sector.

Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment in digital workforce management, regulatory oversight, and tourism infrastructure demonstrates a forward-looking approach to the industry. By leveraging technology, promoting local talent, and ensuring compliance with labor regulations, the Kingdom is prepared to accommodate growing visitor numbers while delivering a high-quality experience.

The expansion of the Ajeer platform represents a landmark step in workforce management for the Kingdom’s tourism sector. By enabling flexible, legally compliant, and efficient staffing solutions, the platform ensures that tourism businesses are ready to meet peak demand, workers’ rights are protected, and visitor services remain of the highest standard. This initiative underscores Saudi Arabia’s long-term commitment to sustainable tourism growth, workforce development, and global competitiveness.