Saudi king orders support measures for citizens as electricity, water tariffs set to change

King Salman bin Abdulaziz has ordered a series of support measures for citizens, following a recommendation from Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. The move comes as the Saudi Electricity Company and the National Water Company announced changes to electricity and water tariffs, effective January 1, 2027.

The support package includes a monthly allowance increase of 500 riyals (SAR) for civil and military employees on government pay scales, workers under operational programs, retirees, and family members of deceased subscribers or retirees covered by the social insurance system.

Additionally, families benefiting from social security will receive a monthly payment of 500 riyals, in accordance with established mechanisms and regulations.

The measures also cover Saudi employees in private sector establishments. The minimum wage required for a Saudi worker to be fully counted in the Nitaqat Saudization program will rise to 5,000 riyals six months after the measures take effect, and to 6,000 riyals twelve months after the first increase. This aims to boost wage levels and support the sustainability of Saudi employment in the private sector.