Human Resources Ministry: Decline in Saudi Unemployment Rate Reflects Progress in Labor Market
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development stressed that the unemployment rate among Saudis has dropped to a historic low of 6.3%, the lowest since statistical monitoring began, reflecting the cumulative impact of national programs and initiatives aimed at developing the labor market and empowering the national workforce.
The ministry noted that this progress aligns with the broader development path the Kingdom is witnessing across various sectors. It emphasized that the Kingdom had already surpassed the Saudi Vision 2030 target of a 7% unemployment rate six years ahead of schedule and is now confidently progressing toward the newly revised target of 5%, in line with recent directives and updates.
It also highlighted record levels of Saudi women's participation in the labor market. Their unemployment rate dropped to a historic low of 10.5%, down from 11.9% in the fourth quarter of 2024, and reflecting a year-on-year decrease of 3.7 percentage points. This decline underscores the impact of initiatives focused on women's economic empowerment, creating a safe and motivating work environment, and enhancing their ability to contribute effectively to national growth.
The ministry said: "Localization and support programs provided to the private sector have led to a new record in the number of Saudis employed in the sector, reaching 2.48 million men and women. The Human Resources Development Fund (Hadaf) contributed to this growth by facilitating the employment of 143,000 Saudi citizens during the first quarter of 2025. The total amount disbursed for training, empowerment, and mentoring programs reached some SAR1.83 billion."
It added: "These outcomes reflect the impact of the National Labor Market Strategy adopted by the ministry, which aims to develop policies and regulations, empower the national workforce, and enhance partnerships with the private sector and relevant stakeholders." The ministry highlighted its commitment to providing quality job opportunities that align with educational outputs, respond to labor market demands, and support the goals of the Saudi Vision 2030 in developing human capital and increasing the contribution of Saudis to the national economy.
