Localization of 600 professions in Saudi Arabia: Record numbers and a promising future
The Saudi labor market has witnessed radical and historic transformations thanks to the accelerated Saudization initiatives launched by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. These initiatives were not merely temporary regulatory measures, but rather a fundamental pillar in the structure of the new national economy. These decisions have contributed to a qualitative shift, transforming the concept of employment from simply filling vacancies to a comprehensive national project aimed at investing in human capital.
The context of transformation and Vision 2030
To understand the depth of this change, one must consider the historical background of the Kingdom's labor market, which for decades relied heavily on expatriate workers in technical and specialized professions. With the launch of Vision 2030, the equation has completely changed. The Vision has set a strategic goal of reducing unemployment rates and empowering citizens to lead vital sectors. The current Saudization decisions are a practical implementation of the "Human Capability Development" program, one of the Vision's initiatives, which aims to prepare a globally competitive Saudi workforce.
Record numbers and new career paths
The Saudization program has expanded to include more than 600 professions and career paths, targeting male and female graduates in specialized fields. These plans have yielded unprecedented results, with the number of Saudis working in the private sector rising to more than 2.5 million. The achievement didn't stop there; Saudi women's participation has also seen a historic leap, from 23% in 2019 to over 35% currently. This reflects the success of the policies in removing obstacles and opening new horizons for half of society in sectors that were previously dominated by men or expatriate workers.
Focus on quality, not quantity
Saudization is no longer limited to traditional jobs; it has shifted significantly towards the knowledge economy and highly specialized professions. The Ministry is currently focusing on Saudizing vital sectors such as engineering, healthcare, information technology, accounting, and procurement. This shift ensures the development of Saudi youth's skills, equipping them to keep pace with the Fourth Industrial Revolution and digital transformation, thereby enhancing job sustainability and reducing professional vulnerability in critical sectors.
Gradualism mechanism and government support
To ensure the success of this system, the Ministry adopted a phased implementation policy and grace periods to allow the private sector to adjust without disrupting business operations. Alongside the mandatory regulations, the government provided generous support packages through the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF), including wage subsidies, on-the-job training programs, and support for professional certifications. This balanced approach of regulatory measures and financial support created a competitive and attractive work environment and contributed to reducing unemployment rates to historic lows, approaching the Vision 2030 targets ahead of schedule.
