Aim This study investigated the influence of structural empowerment and work ethics on work engagement among millennial Saudi clinical nurses. Background No extensive research has been conducted on the structural empowerment, work ethics and work engagement of millennial nurses, especially in Arab countries such as Saudi Arabia. Design This study utilized descriptive correlation quantitative design. Method A total of 250 millennial Saudi nurses participated in the online survey containing the Multidimensional Work Ethic Profile–Short Form, Conditions for Work Effectiveness Questionnaire‐II and Utrecht Work Engagement Scale. Results Descriptive analyses revealed the highest mean for ‘delay of gratification’ for work ethics (M = 4.38, SD = 0.66), ‘access to opportunity’ for structural empowerment (M = 4.28, SD = 0.78) and ‘dedication’ dimension for work engagement (M = 5.02, SD = 1.10). Regression analysis revealed that marital status, employment status, type of hospital, structural empowerment and work ethics influenced the work engagement of millennial Saudi clinical nurses. Conclusions Personal and organisational factors, work ethics and structural empowerment contribute to the work engagement of millennial Saudi clinical nurses. Implications for nursing management This study discusses the importance of formulating strategies such as recognition, rewards and incentives for good nursing practice to foster the work engagement of millennial nurses.