Saudi Arabia requires shared housing for firms with over 20 targeted workers

• 

  Saudi Arabia requires establishments with more than 20 workers in 527 specified professions to provide licensed shared housing.

• 

  The professions are grouped into four occupational categories under the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations.

• 

  Paying a housing allowance does not exempt employers from providing housing for workers in the covered professions.

• 

  Employers may provide accommodation or a housing allowance to workers in professions outside the targeted groups.

• 

  Covered establishments must meet technical and health requirements for shared accommodation.

Who

Establishments employing more than 20 workers in the targeted professions must provide licensed shared housing.

What

Shared housing is mandatory for workers in 527 professions; a housing allowance does not replace the requirement.

When

The report was published on October 8, 2026. The rule’s effective date is not stated.

Where

Saudi Arabia.

Why

To ensure workers have a safe and healthy living environment.

This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.

No direct quotes in the coverage so far.

This story does not have a timeline yet.