In a significant stride towards economic diversification, Saudi Arabia has welcomed 364,000 Saudi citizens into the local employment market for the first time in 2024. This milestone reflects the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to reduce unemployment and increase workforce participation, particularly among women and young professionals. Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Eng. Ahmed Al-Rajhi, highlighted these achievements during the Global Health Exhibition in Riyadh.
Major Initiatives Drive Workforce Localization
Eng. Ahmed Al-Rajhi unveiled that 50 strategic decisions have been implemented over the past four years to localize high-quality jobs across various sectors. These initiatives focus on professions such as accounting, pharmacy, and radiology, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Investment.
- Accounting: Enhanced training programs to meet industry standards.
- Pharmacy: Increased local production and distribution roles.
- Radiology: Development of advanced medical imaging facilities.
These measures have not only created job opportunities but also ensured that Saudi professionals are well-equipped to meet the demands of these critical industries.
Women’s Labor Participation Soars Beyond Vision 2030 Goals
The labor market has witnessed a remarkable increase in women’s participation, rising from less than 20% five years ago to 35% today. This surge surpasses the targets set by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, underscoring the kingdom’s commitment to gender inclusivity in the workforce.
Key Achievements:
- Educational Support: Scholarships and training programs tailored for women.
- Workplace Policies: Implementation of family-friendly workplace policies.
- Entrepreneurship Programs: Support for women-led startups and businesses.
Al-Rajhi emphasized that the current unemployment rate stands at 3%, with unemployment among Saudis decreasing to 7%. These figures illustrate the positive impact of the localization policies and the broader socio-economic reforms underway.
Non-Profit Sector Experiences Exponential Growth
The non-profit sector in Saudi Arabia is on an upward trajectory, with a growth rate of 150% over the past three years. The number of non-profit institutions has surged to 5,000, aiming to contribute 5% to the economy, up from the current 1%.
| Sector | Current Contribution | Target Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Profit | 1% | 5% |
| Healthcare | 15% | 20% |
| Education | 10% | 15% |
This expansion is fueled by increased investments and a strategic focus on enhancing the sector’s role in achieving national ambitions. The government’s support has been pivotal in fostering an environment where non-profit organizations can thrive and make meaningful contributions to society.
Youth and Efficiency Propel the Health Sector Forward
Young Saudi men and women are demonstrating exceptional efficiency in the health sector, contributing to the overall decrease in unemployment rates. The Ministry of Health has been instrumental in this progress, ensuring that the workforce is well-prepared to handle the demands of the industry.
Al-Rajhi noted that the collaborative efforts between various ministries have been crucial in sustaining this momentum. The focus remains on creating more opportunities and ensuring that the employment market continues to grow in a balanced and inclusive manner.
