Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Eng. Ahmed Al-Rajhi, highlighted the Kingdom’s major transformation in the labor market, driven by rapid technological advancements—particularly artificial intelligence, which is reshaping jobs and skills worldwide.
Speaking at the International Labor Market Conference 2026 in Riyadh, Al-Rajhi noted that while automation and robotics have improved market efficiency, they have also redefined job roles, making it essential to better understand the future of work centered on sustainability and skills development.
He revealed that more than 2.5 million young men and women have joined the private sector in Saudi Arabia since 2020, reflecting the success of labor market reforms aligned with Vision 2030.
Al-Rajhi also pointed out that around 262 million young people globally face unemployment or lack of education and training, emphasizing the urgent need to invest in skills development and job creation.
He stressed that successful labor market reforms depend on strong institutions and effective coordination between government entities, noting that Saudi Arabia is building an integrated system focused on workforce participation, skills enhancement, and market efficiency.
The minister added that the global shift toward a green economy is creating new job opportunities, while geopolitical changes are increasingly influencing employment trends worldwide.
Al-Rajhi also announced the launch of “Takamol Academy,” which aims to expand to 75 countries within three years, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to share expertise and lead globally in labor market development.
The conference, attended by ministers, policymakers, and experts from around the world, reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for dialogue on the future of work and a platform for developing practical, evidence-based solutions to evolving labor market challenges.
