Saudi Arabia Achieves 92% of Labor Market Strategy Goals — What This Means for Job Seekers

A Historic Milestone: 92% of Labor Market Strategy Goals Achieved

Saudi Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Engineer Ahmed Al-Rajhi, announced that the Kingdom's labor market ecosystem has achieved 92% of its labor market strategy targets — a figure reflecting real transformation in the Saudi employment landscape.

During a meeting with business leaders in Madinah, the Minister revealed that the number of Saudi nationals working in the private sector has reached 2.5 million — a clear indicator of the success of nationalization programs and empowering national talent.

Key Numbers You Need to Know

What Does This Mean for Job Seekers?

These numbers are not just statistics — they signal real shifts in the job market that directly affect your employment prospects:

1) The Private Sector Is Actively Hiring

With 2.5 million Saudis now in the private sector, companies are hiring seriously and nationalization programs are compelling businesses to create real opportunities. If you're job hunting, the market is moving in your favor — but you need a strong resume that can pass ATS systems.

2) Flexible Work Is Now an Official Option

Over one million flexible and remote work contracts have been issued. This means:

• Opportunities that don't require relocating to another city
• The possibility of holding multiple positions
• Greater flexibility for parents and those with special circumstances

Tip: Highlight any remote work experience or freelance projects in your resume — employers increasingly value this type of experience.

3) Freelancing Is Booming

430,000 citizens have benefited from freelance work programs. If you have skills in programming, design, digital marketing, or writing — there's a massive market waiting for you even before you land a traditional job.

4) Training Opportunities Are Abundant

4.5 million training opportunities through the "Waad" campaign and 1.5 million beneficiaries from HRDF programs — this means professional development is now government-backed. Invest in upskilling and include any certifications or courses in your resume.

Fastest-Growing Sectors Under the Labor Market Strategy

Based on Vision 2030 directions and nationalization programs, these sectors are seeing the highest hiring rates:

How to Position Yourself for These Opportunities

1) Prepare an ATS-Compatible Resume

Large and mid-size companies in Saudi Arabia use ATS systems to screen applicants. A non-compatible resume means automatic rejection before any human sees it.

• Build your resume for free in a clean, ATS-compatible format
• Check its compatibility before every submission

2) Customize Your Resume for Each Job

Don't send the same resume for every application. Read the job description and use the exact same terminology mentioned in it. This significantly improves your chances of passing the automated filter.

3) Highlight Skills Aligned with Vision 2030

Employers are looking for specific capabilities:

```

Most In-Demand Technical Skills:

• Data Analysis (Python, SQL, Power BI)
• AI and Automation
• Cybersecurity
• Cloud Computing (AWS, Azure)
• Project Management (PMP, Agile)

Most In-Demand Soft Skills:

• Adaptability
• Cross-cultural communication
• Complex problem-solving
• Collaborative leadership

```

4) Take Advantage of Government-Backed Training

Leverage HRDF and "Waad" programs to earn accredited certifications that strengthen your resume:

• Tech: AWS, Google Cloud, CompTIA
• Management: PMP, PRINCE2, Scrum
• Finance: SOCPA, CPA, CMA
• Healthcare: SCFHS, specialized nursing

5) Don't Overlook Flexible Work

If you can't find a traditional job right away, start with flexible or freelance work:

• Register on the freelance work platform
• Build a track record of projects and achievements
• This experience strengthens your resume for future opportunities

Impact of Empowerment Programs on Entrepreneurship

The Social Development Bank has provided SAR 8.5 billion in support to over 130,000 beneficiaries — making entrepreneurship a government-backed career option. If you have a business idea:

• Explore available support programs
• Prepare a clear business plan
• Build your resume even as an entrepreneur — you'll need it for partnerships and funding

Conclusion

Achieving 92% of the labor market strategy targets is not just a government statistic — it means the Saudi job market is genuinely expanding and opportunities are available for those who prepare well. The keys are:

• A strong, ATS-compatible resume — Build one for free now
• Up-to-date skills that the market demands
• Customized applications for each position
• Investment in government-backed training programs

The market is moving. The question is: Is your resume ready? Build your resume for free | Check ATS compatibility