Employment

Saudi Aramco Hits 70% Localization Benchmark as IKTVA Generates 200,000 Jobs

Astr Team
10 min read
Cover image for: Saudi Aramco Hits 70% Localization Benchmark as IKTVA Generates 200,000 Jobs

What Is IKTVA?

IKTVA — In-Kingdom Total Value Add is a strategic program launched by Saudi Aramco in 2015 to maximize local value creation in the energy sector. The concept is simple yet powerful: instead of importing services and products, develop and manufacture them inside Saudi Arabia.

The program covers far more than procurement:

  • Local manufacturing of equipment and materials
  • Employment of Saudi nationals across supplier companies
  • Technology transfer and national capability building
  • Training and upskilling the local workforce

The Milestone: 70% Localization and 200,000 Jobs

Key Figures

IndicatorValue
Localization rate achieved70%
Total jobs generated200,000+
Registered local suppliers3,000+
Local manufacturing investmentSAR 70+ billion
Sectors benefiting15+

What Does 70% Localization Mean?

It means 70 halalas of every riyal Aramco spends on operations stays inside the Saudi economy — in salaries, procurement, services, and manufacturing. This is a massive shift from the 35% rate before the program launched.

Sectors Benefiting Most from IKTVA

1) Manufacturing and Engineering

  • Pipes, valves, heavy equipment production
  • Companies like SANAT, ALF, and Dussur are scaling fast
  • Skills needed: Mechanical, Electrical, and Industrial Engineering

2) Information Technology and Digital Transformation

  • Aramco is investing heavily in digitalization and AI
  • Data centers, smart operating systems, cybersecurity
  • Skills needed: Python, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics

3) Logistics and Supply Chain

  • Warehouse management, transport, distribution
  • Skills needed: Supply Chain Management, SAP, Logistics Management

4) Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE)

  • Strict safety standards across all projects
  • Skills needed: NEBOSH, OSHA, ISO 45001

5) Finance and Accounting

  • Contract management, auditing, financial compliance
  • Skills needed: CPA, SOCPA, SAP FICO

How to Capitalize on These Opportunities as a Job Seeker

1) Tailor Your Resume for the Energy Sector

Aramco and its supplier ecosystem have specific requirements. Your resume should include:

  • The right keywords: IKTVA, Oil & Gas, Aramco Vendor, localization
  • Relevant certifications: PMP, NEBOSH, AWS, SOCPA
  • Quantifiable achievements: real numbers and percentages

2) Ensure Your Resume Passes ATS Systems

Aramco and its vendors use advanced ATS systems. A non-compatible resume means automatic rejection before any human sees it.

3) Develop In-Demand Technical Skills

Sectors benefiting from IKTVA are looking for specific capabilities:

SectorMost In-Demand SkillsPreferred Certifications
EngineeringCAD, SolidWorks, Project ManagementPMP, PE
ITPython, AWS, CybersecurityAWS Certified, CompTIA
FinanceSAP FICO, IFRS, AuditingSOCPA, CPA, CMA
LogisticsSupply Chain, SAP MM, ForecastingCSCP, CLTD
HSERisk Assessment, Incident InvestigationNEBOSH, OSHA 30

4) Target Supplier Companies — Not Just Aramco

Most IKTVA-generated jobs are within supplier companies, not Aramco itself. Look for:

  • Local manufacturers registered in the IKTVA program
  • Technical and logistics service providers
  • Energy-sector startups and scaleups

IKTVA's Impact on Vision 2030

IKTVA is one of the most powerful engines of Vision 2030 for economic diversification:

  • Reducing import dependency: Local manufacturing replaces foreign procurement
  • Creating quality jobs: Not just any jobs — roles in advanced sectors
  • Building industrial infrastructure: Factories and facilities that persist and grow
  • Empowering women: A growing share of generated positions goes to Saudi women

FAQ

Are IKTVA jobs only for engineers?

No. Opportunities span IT, finance, logistics, marketing, HR, and safety. The range is very broad.

Do I need oil and gas experience to apply?

Not necessarily. Many supplier companies actively recruit talent from other sectors, especially in tech and finance. Transferable skills matter most.

How do I find IKTVA-registered companies?

Visit Aramco's official IKTVA portal, where approved suppliers and available opportunities are published.

What is the best way to prepare my resume for these roles?

Start by building a professional resume focused on skills and achievements, then check it with the ATS grader to ensure compatibility with enterprise hiring systems.

Conclusion

Aramco reaching 70% localization through IKTVA is not just a number — it represents 200,000 real job opportunities across diverse, advanced sectors. Job seekers who equip themselves with the right skills and an ATS-compatible resume will be best positioned to seize these opportunities.

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

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