The effect of regulations on HRM: private sector firms in Saudi Arabia

Since the early 2000s, the government in Saudi Arabia has undertaken the task of shaping the HRM function in the private sector through a comprehensive legal framework. Based on extensive review of published information and interviews with Saudi managers, this paper explores the implications of the emerging legal framework for HRM in the private sector, and evaluates the adequacy of changing HRM practices through laws and regulations. The paper discusses the implications of the research findings for private sector managers and policy makers.