Saudi Private Sector Employment of Nationals Rises 93% in Q1

23/05/2025 02:23 AST

Saudi Arabia's Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF) announced a significant increase in the employment of Saudi nationals in the private sector, with 143,000 citizens hired through the Fund's programs during the first quarter of 2025, a 93% growth compared to the same period last year.

In its quarterly report, the Fund also revealed that 1.18 million Saudis benefited from its training, empowerment, and career guidance services in Q1, marking a 4% year-on-year increase.

More than 98,000 private sector establishments across various industries and regions of the Kingdom benefited from HRDF services during the same period, reflecting a 37% increase over Q1 of the previous year.

Notably, 93% of these businesses were small, medium, or micro enterprises, underscoring the Fund's role in supporting grassroots economic development.

HRDF disbursed SAR1.8 billion (approximately $480 million) during the quarter to support training, empowerment, and career counseling programs.

HRDF Director General Turki Al-Jawini said the Fund operates in close partnership with public and private sector stakeholders to create job opportunities for Saudi nationals.

He highlighted ongoing transformations within the Fund, driven by the government's commitment to investing in human capital.

Al-Jawini noted that the growing number of individuals placed into jobs through HRDF initiatives reflects the Fund's strategic efforts to respond to labor market changes, improve workforce efficiency, and align with economic priorities.

He added that the Fund continues to evolve its support programs to better meet the needs of the market and national development goals.

HRDF's focus remains on providing tailored training and career development programs that equip Saudi talent for roles across key sectors, especially those identified as economic priorities.

Arab News