Job applicants in Saudi Arabia should no longer be left wondering for weeks or months whether they passed an interview.
Under rules issued by the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD), private-sector employers must inform applicants of their interview results within a maximum of 30 days from the date of the interview.
The requirement applies whether the applicant is accepted or rejected.
Rejected Applicants Should Also Be Told Why
The regulation goes further than simply requiring employers to send an acceptance or rejection notice.
If an applicant does not pass the interview, the employer should also explain the reason for the decision.
Employers may notify applicants through an official communication method.
This could help reduce the uncertainty commonly known as “ghosting,” when an applicant attends an interview but receives no further update from the company.
The regulation was formally published by MHRSD in March 2025 as part of rules covering job vacancy advertisements and interviews in Saudi Arabia’s private sector.
Job Interviews Also Have Other Rules
Saudi Arabia’s rules cover more than the final interview result.
Employers are required to give candidates information about the type of interview, its schedule, and its expected duration at least three working days before the interview.
The rules also require employers to document interview results so records can be checked when necessary.
Job advertisements and interviews must also avoid discrimination based on factors such as gender, disability, age, or social status.
MHRSD said the wider regulations were introduced to standardize recruitment procedures and improve the services provided to people searching for jobs in the private sector.
No Answer After 30 Days? Applicants Can Report It
Applicants who believe an employer has violated Saudi labor regulations may submit a report to MHRSD.
The ministry operates a free “Reporting Violations of Labor Regulations” service for private-sector violations. It is available to individuals and job seekers through the ministry’s mobile application.
Applicants may be asked to provide information about the establishment and evidence related to the reported violation.
For anyone searching for opportunities in Saudi Arabia, it may be worth keeping copies of interview invitations, emails, text messages, and other communication with recruiters.
These records can help applicants track the 30-day period and document what happened if a complaint becomes necessary.