Employment among Saudi women in the private sector has exceeded one million for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s labor market transformation under Saudi Vision 2030, according to analysis by Al Eqtisadiah.

The rise in female employment comes alongside a broader decline in unemployment, which fell by 0.3 percentage points to 7.2 percent in the fourth quarter of 2025. The figure brings the Kingdom closer to its Vision 2030 target of 7 percent, a threshold first reached in late 2024 before fluctuating through 2025.

Labor market gains have been underpinned by sustained economic growth, particularly in non-oil sectors, supported by government spending and expansionary fiscal policies. Analysts attribute job creation largely to private sector expansion and structural reforms aimed at increasing workforce participation among Saudi nationals.

Female employment has been a central driver of this shift. Prior to the launch of Vision 2030, unemployment among Saudi women stood at 34.5 percent, significantly contributing to overall joblessness. By the fourth quarter of 2025, female unemployment had declined to 10.3 percent, its lowest level since official records began in 1999.

At the same time, female labor force participation rose by 0.8 percentage points to 34.5 percent, exceeding the Vision 2030 target. Male participation also increased, reaching 64.7 percent. However, male unemployment edged up slightly to 5.6 percent, indicating a divergence in labor market dynamics across genders.

Overall unemployment, which includes both citizens and expatriates, rose marginally by 0.1 percentage points to 3.5 percent. This increase was driven by a rise in non-Saudi unemployment, which reached 1.7 percent.Economic indicators suggest that employment growth is closely tied to broader macroeconomic performance.

Saudi Arabia’s gross domestic product expanded by 5 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2025, marking the fastest pace in four quarters and the eighth consecutive quarter of growth. The oil sector recorded a 10.8 percent increase, its strongest expansion in over three years, supported by higher production levels.

The non-oil sector maintained steady growth of 4.3 percent for the 20th consecutive quarter, reinforcing its role as a key pillar of economic diversification. In contrast, the government sector contracted by 1.2 percent, its first decline in more than two years.

Within the private sector, employment gains among Saudi nationals have been substantial. A total of 811,000 jobs were added over the period, including approximately 533,000 positions filled by women and 278,000 by men. As a result, total Saudi employment in the private sector rose to 2.55 million, representing a 52 percent increase.

Women accounted for 66 percent of new jobs created for Saudi citizens in the private sector, highlighting their growing role in the workforce. The increase reflects a series of policy reforms aimed at improving access to employment opportunities and reducing structural barriers.

Key measures have included lifting restrictions on women’s participation across multiple industries, advancing wage equality, and updating maternity regulations. Authorities have also introduced targeted programs to support female employment, including training initiatives, childcare services, and policies designed to enhance workplace inclusion.

Mobility reforms, including the lifting of restrictions on women driving, have also contributed to increased workforce participation by improving access to jobs. In parallel, government initiatives have encouraged private sector firms to hire more women, aligning corporate practices with national employment objectives.

The expansion of female employment has had a measurable impact on the overall labor market, contributing to a sustained decline in unemployment among Saudi nationals. Analysts note that continued progress will depend on maintaining economic growth, particularly in non-oil sectors, and further integrating women into emerging industries.

The data indicates that structural changes in the labor market are gaining traction, with female participation emerging as a key factor in achieving broader economic goals.

The season, themed “Ezek we Malfak” (Your Glory and Refuge), launched on Thursday along the beautiful banks of Wadi Safar in western Diriyah, marking another significant celebration of heritage, creativity, and unity.

The theme reflects Diriyah’s enduring legacy as the birthplace of the first Saudi state and a symbol of the Kingdom’s strength, culture, and history.

Organized by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), the opening ceremony was attended by Prince Fahd bin Saad bin Abdullah bin Turki, Governor of Diriyah, along with several cultural and media figures from Saudi Arabia and abroad.

The evening was brought to life with artistic performances inspired by the spirit of “Al-Awja,” a term deeply linked to Diriyah’s identity and the pride of the Saudi people.

Through captivating visual displays, advanced lighting, and drone shows, the story of Wadi Hanifa was beautifully told in a performance titled “I Am Al-Awja,” which left the audience inspired and emotional.

Adding to the evening’s charm, the winners of the “Rawi Al-Diriyah” (Narrator of Diriyah) program, Tamim Al-Harthi and Bader Al-Harbi, delivered interactive performances that reflected the profound connection between Saudis and their national heritage.

Their presentations, blending storytelling, music, and tradition, symbolized the deep emotional bond that unites the people of Saudi Arabia with Diriyah — the land where their nation’s story began.

The celebration also featured musical and theatrical performances showcasing Saudi folk traditions, including the Ardah and Samri dances.

These performances highlighted the diversity of Najdi culture and celebrated the artistic spirit of young Saudis, both men and women, who are keeping their heritage alive through creativity and performance.

Ahlam Al-Thunayan, director of Diriyah Season, explained that this year’s theme aims to celebrate Diriyah’s history, values, and culture in innovative ways that reflect the pride Saudis take in their roots.

She emphasized that the symbolism of Al-Awja represents the Kingdom’s continuity — linking the past with the present while inspiring future generations to preserve their cultural identity.

The season features more than 10 diverse programs over 120 days, ranging from cultural and artistic events to historical exhibitions.

Highlights include the “Hal Al-Qusour” program in the Al-Turaif district, where several historical palaces will be opened to the public for the first time, and the “Teen” program, which showcases traditional Najdi architecture.

Other attractions include the “Diriyah Novel Festival” in Al-Bujairi and “Diriyah Nights,” which bring together Saudi culinary art and international dining experiences in a lively and elegant setting.

The “Season Market” in Al-Tawali recreates the charm of old Arabian souqs, while Al-Dhuwairah district will host interactive family activities and craft workshops. Visitors can also enjoy luxury hospitality experiences with scenic views over Wadi Safar, merging modern leisure with historical elegance.

According to the DGDA, all programs are guided by principles of cultural sustainability, empowering local talents and artisans, and fostering partnerships that strengthen cultural tourism in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The goal is to position Diriyah as a living museum — a place where the past and present merge seamlessly to inspire the future.

Nasser Al-Gharbi, chairman of the Economic Families Association, praised the Diriyah Season as a shining example of how culture and community development can work together.

He noted that the season reflects Vision 2030’s objectives by empowering local communities and creating sustainable economic opportunities through cultural engagement.

Dr. Abdulmohsen Al-Sheikh of the Saudi Economic Association highlighted that initiatives like the Diriyah Season help strengthen local economies, create jobs, and encourage regional investment — all key goals under Vision 2030.

The Diriyah Season ultimately stands as a proud tribute to Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, creativity, and unity. By blending tradition with innovation, the festival transforms Diriyah into a vibrant cultural hub that connects generations.

It serves as a reminder that the Kingdom’s strength lies not only in its progress but also in its deep respect for its history and identity — values that continue to guide its journey toward a bright and sustainable future.

Organized by the Embassy of Japan, the event took place at the Cultural Palace in the Diplomatic Quarter and reflected the strong friendship, mutual respect, and deep cultural connection between the two nations.

The festival attracted a large and diverse audience, including government officials, diplomats, cultural figures, and business leaders, all of whom gathered to commemorate seven decades of fruitful partnership.

The event served as a cultural bridge, strengthening understanding between the Saudi and Japanese people and celebrating the shared values of innovation, tradition, and respect that have defined their bilateral relations.

Throughout the day, visitors experienced a fascinating blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. The festival featured a series of captivating performances, including Wadaiko drumming, which filled the venue with energy and rhythm, and Kabuki dance, a classical Japanese art form that combines graceful movement with expressive storytelling

. The soothing sounds of Tsugaru Shamisen, a traditional string instrument, added an authentic touch that transported guests to the heart of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Exhibits and workshops introduced visitors to Japanese crafts, calligraphy, origami, and ikebana (the art of flower arrangement), offering hands-on experiences that highlighted the artistry and precision deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

A special section of the festival showcased traditional Japanese clothing, such as kimonos and yukatas, allowing guests to explore the beauty and symbolism behind each garment.

Culinary enthusiasts enjoyed a taste of Japan through food stalls offering authentic dishes like sushi, ramen, and mochi, giving visitors a flavorful glimpse into Japan’s celebrated cuisine.

In addition to cultural displays, the festival also highlighted the growing economic and educational collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

An exhibition area featured several Japanese companies operating in the Kingdom, reflecting Japan’s active role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.

These companies showcased their contributions to technology, renewable energy, and industrial innovation, reinforcing the strong economic partnership between the two nations.

Japanese Ambassador Morino Yasunari expressed his pride in the enduring relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia, noting that their friendship has deepened through mutual respect, collaboration, and shared aspirations for development and peace. He emphasized that the 70th anniversary is not just a celebration of past achievements but a symbol of the new era of cooperation unfolding between the two countries.

Ambassador Yasunari also highlighted the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties. He said that cultural exchange serves as a bridge that connects people on a deeper level, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. Through events like the Japan Festival, both nations can continue to learn from one another and build enduring connections that go beyond economic and political collaboration.

The festival’s success reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing openness to global cultural exchange under Vision 2030, which encourages the development of arts, heritage, and international cooperation.

The Kingdom’s emphasis on cultural diplomacy aligns perfectly with Japan’s long-standing tradition of promoting peace and friendship through culture and education.

As visitors explored the festival’s exhibitions and performances, they witnessed the harmony between Japan’s rich traditions and modern innovation—a quality that resonates with Saudi Arabia’s own transformation journey. From art and music to technology and cuisine, the event showcased how both nations are balancing their cultural heritage with forward-looking progress.

The Japan Festival in Riyadh served as more than just a commemoration of diplomatic history—it became a celebration of friendship, creativity, and shared vision.

It reflected how two nations, despite geographical distance, are united by mutual respect, collaboration, and the desire to build a better future together.

By combining culture, education, and innovation, the festival strengthened the foundation for future cooperation and mutual growth, marking a new chapter in the ever-evolving relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia.

Through events like this, Riyadh continues to affirm its role as a global center for cultural dialogue, welcoming the world to celebrate diversity, heritage, and the power of human connection.

The event, which saw the signing of 28 agreements and memoranda of understanding worth over SR3.6 billion ($960 million), underscores the Kingdom’s growing role as a global leader in sustainable agriculture and environmental innovation.

Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the four-day exhibition features nearly 450 companies and organizations from 34 countries, including 11 national pavilions.

The event serves as a vibrant platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies in plant, animal, and fish production, aligning with the Saudi Vision 2030 goals of achieving food self-sufficiency, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing the Kingdom’s agricultural competitiveness.

In his opening remarks, Minister Al-Fadley emphasized the significance of agricultural innovation in achieving environmental sustainability, water preservation, and food security.

He noted that the record-breaking number of agreements signed reflects the confidence of local and international investors in the Kingdom’s agricultural sector, which continues to expand through strategic investments and advanced research.

Prince Saud bin Turki Al-Faisal, chairman of the board at Riyadh Exhibitions Co., highlighted the event’s growing influence, describing it as “a vital global platform for exchanging expertise, forging partnerships, and advancing sustainable agricultural practices.”

He added that global environmental challenges call for innovative solutions and collaboration between nations to safeguard natural resources and ensure a resilient future for food production.

Following the inauguration, Minister Al-Fadley toured various pavilions, exploring the latest advancements in livestock management, aquaculture, organic farming, food processing, agricultural machinery, and biotechnology.

He praised the exhibitors for their contribution to transforming agriculture into a high-tech, eco-conscious industry that supports both local farmers and international trade.

The exhibition’s first day saw the signing of 28 strategic agreements among public, semi-governmental, and private entities aimed at enhancing agricultural investments, supporting startups, and driving innovation in the sector.

Several international partnerships were also announced, focused on boosting Saudi Arabia’s agri-food value chains, expanding research in climate-resilient crops, and encouraging technology transfer from leading agricultural nations.

According to event organizers, the Saudi agricultural sector contributed SR119 billion to the national GDP in 2024, marking a steady rise in productivity and investment.

This figure is expected to climb to SR140 billion by 2030, reflecting the country’s success in diversifying its economy and reducing dependency on imports through sustainable domestic production.

Running parallel to the exhibition is the International Future of Agriculture Summit, which gathers experts, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from around the world to discuss the future of food systems, digital agriculture, and sustainable farming techniques.

Topics such as AI-driven irrigation, hydroponics, and green supply chains are central to this year’s discussions, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional hub for smart agriculture.

Industry leaders attending the exhibition praised the Kingdom’s proactive approach toward building a resilient and environmentally responsible food system.

By leveraging technology, research, and international partnerships, Saudi Arabia continues to advance toward its Vision 2030 targets, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and global collaboration.

The exhibition not only celebrates Saudi Arabia’s agricultural progress but also serves as a reminder of the Kingdom’s broader mission: ensuring food security for future generations while balancing economic growth and environmental stewardship.

With over 450 global participants and nearly $1 billion in agreements, the 42nd Saudi Agriculture Exhibition stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to creating a prosperous, sustainable, and food-secure future — both for itself and for the wider world.

The opportunities are part of the young prince’s Vision 2030, aimed at ending the kingdom’s dependence on oil and transforming it into a global investment power.

The prince, known in the West as MbS, plans to create new sectors and develop domestic projects that would create jobs for millions of Saudis, through the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the kingdom’s sovereign investment fund that acts as the main vehicle boosting investments at home and abroad.

PIF will finance 85% of these opportunities along with the Saudi private sector, while the remaining financing will come from capital investments from investors in the Gulf and globally, Saudi Press Agency said, quoting the prince’s speech.

The PIF is the cornerstone investor in a number of mega projects including a high-tech economic zone dubbed NEOM planned for an area close to the size of Belgium, an entertainment park outside Riyadh called Qiddiya being built on a site 2-1/2 times larger than Disney World, and a luxury tourist resort off the Red Sea coast that will span 50 islands.

This week, Prince Mohammed unveiled plans to build a zero-carbon city at NEOM, with infrastructure costs of $100 billion to $200 billion.

The world’s top oil exporter is expected to borrow tens of billions of dollars this year to fill state coffers hit by lower oil prices and to boost liquidity at the PIF.