The launch reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing role in shaping global discussions on employment, social protection, and sustainable labor reforms amid rapidly changing economic conditions.

The academy brings together policymakers, experts, and practitioners from around the world to exchange knowledge on global labor trends and innovative policy solutions.

With the addition of 19 new member countries in this edition, the initiative now includes participants from 50 nations, underscoring its expanding international reach and relevance in addressing shared employment challenges.

Designed as a year-long academic and capacity-building program, the Global Labor Market Academy focuses on developing practical skills and policy frameworks that can be adapted across diverse economic contexts.

Participants engage in research-driven discussions, case studies, and collaborative learning aimed at improving labor market resilience and promoting inclusive growth.

The opening sessions of the academy were led by experts from the World Bank, who emphasized the critical role of social and labor policies in addressing global challenges such as unemployment, workforce transitions, and demographic changes.

Special attention was given to youth employment, highlighting the need for policies that equip young people with relevant skills and create pathways to decent work.

Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the academy aligns with broader national efforts to modernize its labor market and invest in human capital development.

By facilitating dialogue among international stakeholders, the Kingdom aims to contribute to evidence-based policy making and support reforms that enhance productivity, fairness, and social stability across labor markets worldwide.

The academy also serves as a platform for sharing best practices on labor regulation, social protection systems, and employment strategies that respond to technological change and globalization.

Through structured learning modules and peer-to-peer engagement, participants gain insights into how different countries tackle labor market challenges and adapt policies to local needs.

Looking ahead, the initiative has set an ambitious goal to expand its membership to more than 75 countries by 2028.

This expansion is intended to strengthen global collaboration and position the academy as a leading forum for shaping the future of international labor markets through research, policy innovation, and capacity building.

The event in Riyadh reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and contributing to global policy dialogue.

By hosting the Global Labor Market Academy, the Kingdom reinforces its role as a convener of ideas and a supporter of cooperative approaches to employment and social development challenges.

The inauguration concluded with a reaffirmation of the academy’s mission to support sustainable labor market reforms and empower policymakers with the tools needed to navigate evolving workforce dynamics.

As global employment landscapes continue to change, the academy is expected to play an increasingly important role in guiding policy responses and promoting inclusive economic growth.

Launched three years ago, the program was designed to gradually localize jobs across private sector industries through a structured and transparent framework.. Its initial goal was to create 340,000 jobs for Saudis, a benchmark that was surpassed well ahead of schedule due to strong compliance and participation from businesses..

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development said the results of the first phase have contributed directly to lowering unemployment rates and increasing Saudi participation in private companies.. Officials highlighted that the program also improved job stability and encouraged employers to invest in local talent..

Following the success of the first phase, the ministry has officially launched the second phase of the initiative.. This next stage will run for three years and aims to localize more than 340,000 additional jobs, further strengthening the role of Saudi professionals in the private sector..

The phased structure of the program has been widely praised for giving companies sufficient time to adapt to localization requirements.. By offering clear Saudization targets over a defined period, businesses are able to plan recruitment, training, and workforce development more effectively..

Experts believe the strong outcomes demonstrate the government’s long-term commitment to building a sustainable labor market aligned with Vision 2030 goals.. The initiative focuses not only on job numbers but also on improving workforce quality and organizational stability..

Employment growth under the program has been driven by cooperation between regulators and private sector employers.. Incentives, regulatory clarity, and gradual implementation have helped reduce resistance while encouraging long-term compliance..

The ministry has emphasized that localization is being implemented in a balanced way, ensuring business continuity while prioritizing national talent.. This approach has helped maintain investor confidence and avoid sudden disruptions in key industries..

According to officials, the Nitaqat Al-Mutawar Program has also supported skills development by encouraging companies to train Saudi employees for specialized and managerial roles.. This has contributed to career progression opportunities and higher retention rates..

Government data shows that the private sector now employs millions of Saudi nationals, reflecting a steady shift away from reliance on expatriate labor.. The program has played a central role in accelerating this transition over the past three years..

Policy experts note that localization initiatives are increasingly focused on long-term employability rather than short-term quotas.. Programs like Nitaqat Al-Mutawar are seen as tools for reshaping workforce culture and improving productivity..

The second phase is expected to expand localization into additional sectors while refining compliance mechanisms.. Authorities aim to ensure that job creation remains aligned with economic growth and private sector needs..

Officials have also stressed the importance of monitoring and evaluation to maintain program effectiveness.. Continuous assessment will help identify gaps, improve implementation, and ensure fair outcomes for both employers and employees..

As Saudi Arabia continues to diversify its economy, workforce localization remains a key pillar of national development strategy.. Employment programs are increasingly linked to broader goals such as competitiveness, innovation, and social stability..

The success of the Nitaqat Al-Mutawar Program highlights the impact of structured policy design combined with strong public-private cooperation.. With the second phase now underway, expectations are high that employment gains will continue to accelerate in the coming years..