RIYADH — The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has started activating the updated social security system that ensures adequate support to the most needy and deserving Saudi individuals and families. The updated system aims to achieve social security with taking all the necessary means and measures to provide appropriate support such families with meeting their basic needs. The ministry called on those entitled to register in the updated system to submit applications during the period between Nov. 20 and May 23, 2022. The updated system has been worked out in accordance with the legislation to achieve social protection goals, including cash support, rehabilitation and training services, in addition to empowerment and employment services. It also ensures Zakat funds reach their beneficiaries, as well as improving the workforce and skills of those who are entitled to enhance the quality of their social and economic life. The new system aims to support the most needy groups in accordance with the objectives of Vision 2030, as it was designed on the basis of the actual need for development in the previous system, taking into account of the best global practices of a number of similar programs in other countries, social and economic aspects, and future development opportunities, so that it contributes to achieving the three main axes — a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. The updated system targets destitute individuals and families to provide them with material support, and empower those who are eligible to improve their living conditions, achieve financial independence, and transform into productive people through acquiring qualification, training and appropriate job offers in coordination with the Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF). The ministry has made the necessary updates and modifications to the social security online platform, in order to comply with the mechanism of the updated system. The two platforms — current and updated — will work in parallel until May 23, which is the date when the current platform will be closed, and during that period, the beneficiaries will be transferred gradually after reviewing and studying the due cases in accordance with the terms and conditions of the updated system. The ministry indicated that it will start studying the eligibility for new applicants in December and the first pension will be deposited for them in January 2022. The beneficiary can also submit an objection to the eligibility decision within a period not exceeding 30 days from the date of his notification of the ministry's decision, and the submitted objections will be considered on the basis of the rules and procedures of the committee as well as the grievances received by it.
