Adapting human resources management to global health crises: lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia

Purpose This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on human resource management (HRM) within Saudi Arabia's distinct socio-legal landscape, which is shaped by Islamic cultural norms, stringent labor laws and a diversifying economy. This context necessitates innovative HR strategies during crises. Design/methodology/approach Grounded in the resource-based view, this qualitative study employs semi-structured interviews with 18 HR professionals across various sectors. This approach enables an in-depth exploration of HRM practice adaptations during the pandemic, using purposive sampling to ensure the collection of rich and relevant data. Findings Significant shifts towards remote work, the digitalization of HR operations and prioritizing employee health and safety were identified. The analysis revealed key themes, including HR policy changes, resilience strategies, encountered challenges, the importance of communication in employee engagement and strategic learnings. These findings highlight the criticality of adaptability, clear communication and digital transformation in effective crisis management. Originality/value This research contributes novel insights into the resilience of HRM practices in Saudi Arabia’s unique socio-legal environment during health crises. It fills a gap in our understanding of how specific regional contexts influence HRM strategies during emergencies, offering valuable contributions to both theory and practice. The study provides practical guidance for HR professionals and policymakers on crafting effective HRM strategies tailored to organizational needs in crisis conditions, thereby enhancing the field’s knowledge on navigating HRM challenges in future health crises.