Saudi Arabia plans to create over 340,000 new private-sector jobs for its citizens over the next three years. This effort is part of a new phase of the government’s labour-market localisation program, which aims to boost Saudi participation and reduce reliance on foreign workers.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced the launch of the second phase of the Nitaqat AlMutawar Programme. This policy is central to the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to expand job opportunities for Saudi nationals in different industries.
The new phase builds on the success of the program’s first stage. Since 2022, the initiative has helped more than 550,000 Saudi citizens find private sector jobs.
This number is well above the original goal of 340,000 jobs, indicating that the program has exceeded expectations and had a strong impact on local employment.
Aiming to Reduce Unemployment and Strengthen the Private Sector
The government says the updated program will keep working toward these goals:
- Lowering unemployment among Saudi nationals
- Encouraging companies to hire local talent
- Reducing reliance on expatriate labour
- Expanding Saudi presence across different industries
At the same time, officials are keen to ensure that businesses remain competitive and continue to grow.
Balanced Approach to Saudisation
Ahmed Al Rajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, explained that the new phase has been carefully designed to strike a balance between increasing local employment and supporting private-sector growth.
He said the programme is based on a detailed study of labour market conditions and the capacity of businesses in various sectors.
“Our goal is to create more opportunities for Saudi citizens in a way that supports sustainable economic development,” Al Rajhi stated.
He also highlighted that earlier stages of Nitaqat had proven that Saudi workers are capable of performing successfully across many professions, helping build confidence in local talent.
Focus on Job Quality and Market Stability
The second phase aims to create more jobs, improve job quality, and ensure long-term stability in the labour market.
Officials believe it will:
- Improve the balance between job supply and demand.
- Increase productivity
- Strengthen private-sector confidence
- Support the wider goals of Saudi Arabia’s economy.
Abdullah Abuthnain, Deputy Minister for the Labour Sector, said detailed studies of businesses of all sizes and industries helped shape the new phase.
These studies set realistic Saudisation targets that fit current market conditions and each sector’s needs.
He added that as more Saudi workers gain skills, it has become easier for companies to meet localisation goals and stay efficient.
Abuthnain said the updated program should make Saudi Arabia’s workforce more sustainable by improving job security and raising productivity.
Overall, the government’s plan aims to empower Saudi citizens, strengthen the private sector, and build a more balanced and resilient labour market for the future.
