In a pivotal move aimed at reshaping the Saudi Arabian workforce, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced on Thursday the launch of a new and advanced phase of the "Enhanced Nitaqat Program." This phase is scheduled to begin in 2026 and will run for three years, targeting the creation of over 340,000 additional jobs for Saudi citizens across various private sector entities.
Program context and strategic objectives
This announcement comes as a continuation of a long process of reforms in the Saudi labor market. The Nitaqat program, since its initial launch in 2011 and subsequent radical update in 2021, has been one of the most important regulatory tools used by the state to reduce unemployment rates and increase the participation of Saudis in economic development. This new phase is particularly significant as it coincides with the approaching deadline for achieving the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to reduce unemployment rates to 7% and enhance the private sector's contribution to the GDP.
Through this step, the ministry aims to achieve real sustainability in the labor market, not limited to numbers, but focusing on the quality and stability of jobs, which ensures that the economic wheel turns more efficiently and enhances local purchasing power.
A well-considered balance between localization and business growth
Commenting on the launch, the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Engineer Ahmed Al-Rajhi, affirmed that the design of the new phase was not arbitrary, but rather the result of extensive studies to ensure a delicate balance between increasing Saudization rates and supporting the growth and competitiveness of private sector establishments. Al-Rajhi explained that the program is based on a thorough analysis of the market situation and the absorptive capacities of establishments, praising the efficiency and excellence demonstrated by Saudi citizens in various professions during previous phases, which has provided strong motivation to move forward in raising the targets.
Scientific methodology and empowerment of competencies
For his part, the Deputy Minister for Labor, Dr. Abdullah Abu Thnein, explained that the ministry based the new percentages on comprehensive analytical studies of all economic sectors. He indicated that the targeted percentages were set to be realistic and applicable, taking into account the nature and circumstances of each business activity, in order to ensure that business operations are not disrupted.
Abu Thnein added that this strategy will directly contribute to enhancing job stability, raising productivity rates, and creating quality job opportunities that align with educational outcomes and the aspirations of Saudi youth. The ministry affirms that this phase will play a pivotal role in achieving a sustainable balance between supply and demand in the labor market, thereby strengthening investor and private sector confidence in the national economy in the long term.
