Saudi Arabia has achieved a historic milestone in workforce development, with a record 2.48 million Saudi nationals now employed in the private sector, according to official figures released this week. This achievement reflects the success of labour market reforms and Saudization policies under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 agenda.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development credits the growth to initiatives aimed at diversifying the economy, reducing reliance on public sector jobs, and incentivizing private companies to hire and retain local talent. Targeted programs in sectors such as technology, retail, logistics, and finance have opened up thousands of new opportunities for Saudi citizens—especially youth and women.
The surge in employment comes alongside efforts to upskill the local workforce, with expanded vocational training, digital literacy programs, and stronger public-private partnerships playing a key role. Female participation continues to rise, with thousands of women entering fields once dominated by expatriate workers.
This latest employment record signals a turning point in the Kingdom’s economic transformation, as the private sector becomes a more attractive and viable career path for Saudi nationals. Officials have vowed to sustain the momentum by ensuring supportive policies, career progression pathways, and workplace inclusivity.