Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Issues a Number of Supportive Measures for Saudis
King Salman issued directives for financial support for employees, retirees, and families of the Social Security system, raising the minimum wage in the private sector, coinciding with adjustments to electricity and water tariffs starting in 2027.
Translated by Qiyas from الأنباء — Original source
His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, has issued a number of measures to support citizens, following a proposal by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. These measures coincide with the announcement by Saudi Electricity Company and National Water Company of adjustments to their consumption tariffs, effective January 1, 2027.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the support measures include a monthly allowance of 500 riyals for civil and military employees on the civil service scale and employment program categories, as well as for retirees and family members of deceased subscribers or retirees covered by the Social Insurance system. Additionally, a monthly support of 500 riyals will be provided to families benefiting from the Social Affairs system, in accordance with the mechanisms and regulations governing such support, as part of efforts to mitigate the impact of the electricity and water tariff adjustments.
The measures also cover Saudi workers in private sector establishments by raising the minimum salary required to fully count a Saudi worker toward the Saudization quotas under the “Nitaqat” program to 5,000 riyals, with implementation beginning six months after the measure’s effective date, and then to 6,000 riyals twelve months after the start of the first increase. This aims to enhance wage levels and support the sustainability of citizen employment in the private sector.
Saudi Electricity Company had previously announced an adjustment to its electricity service tariff in accordance with the governance procedures for adjusting energy and water product prices, with the adjustment taking effect from January 1, 2027. The company clarified, via SPA, that individual and establishment customers can view the details of the adjusted tariff on the Saudi Electricity Company website. It urged customers with inquiries regarding tariff application or bills to contact the company through its official channels.
For its part, National Water Company announced adjustments to the tariffs for water and wastewater services for residential, non-residential, and government sectors, in accordance with the governance procedures for adjusting energy and water product prices, with the adjustments taking effect from January 1, 2027. The company clarified that subscribers, including individuals and establishments, can view the details of the adjusted tariff on the National Water Company website. It urged customers with inquiries regarding tariff application or bills to contact the company through its official channels, including its mobile applications or website.
