Latest news with #HumanResourcesDevelopmentFund
Arab News
26-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia increases wage support to 50% for tourism sector jobs
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has raised wage subsidies for local workers in the tourism sector from 30 percent to 50 percent, in a strategic push to expand employment opportunities for Saudi nationals and reduce reliance on foreign labor. The initiative, part of the Employment Support Program by the Human Resources Development Fund, was unveiled by the Ministry of Tourism in coordination with other government agencies. It extends financial support to 43 tourism-related professions and is designed to enhance the appeal and sustainability of careers in the sector. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the program aligns with the Ahlaha initiative — the ministry's national workforce empowerment plan — which seeks to train and integrate Saudi citizens into the tourism industry. The updated wage support is expected to encourage more private sector involvement in national workforce development and marks a significant step toward achieving the goals outlined in the Kingdom's National Tourism Strategy, which aims to create 1.6 million jobs by 2030 as part of the broader Vision 2030 economic diversification agenda. 'The step aims to raise the percentage of national employment in the tourism sector, while ensuring job sustainability and stability for Saudi workers,' the SPA report stated. The decision underscores ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Tourism and its partners to empower Saudi men and women in tourism-related roles and increase Saudization rates across the industry. Latest figures from the General Authority for Statistics show that by the fourth quarter of 2024, employment in the tourism sector grew by 4 percent year on year. Saudi nationals comprised 25 percent of the workforce — or 242,073 employees — while expatriates accounted for 75 percent, totaling 724,458 workers. The Riyadh and Makkah regions led the sector in employment numbers. In a related move, authorities announced in April that 41 key tourism roles, including hotel managers, travel agency directors, and tour guides, will be exclusively reserved for Saudi nationals starting April 2026. The decision is part of continued efforts to localize critical job functions and strengthen the domestic workforce.
Leaders
25-05-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Boosts Tourism Wage Support to Empower National Workforce
The Ministry of Tourism has announced a significant increase in wage support for Saudi workers in the tourism sector. This increase raises the financial contribution provided through the Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF) from 30% to 50%. This updated support applies to 43 job roles and licensed tourism activities, enhancing the ministry's efforts to localize the sector. Empowering National Talent Through 'Ahlaha' This initiative is part of the 'Ahlaha' program, which aims to equip and employ Saudi nationals in tourism-related professions. By enhancing job stability and workforce sustainability, the program makes tourism careers more attractive for citizens. The ministry emphasized that this move aligns with its ongoing collaboration with relevant government entities to increase Saudization levels across the tourism industry. The goal is to position tourism as a key sector for employment and sustainable economic growth in Saudi Arabia. The enhanced wage subsidy program, administered by HADAF, supports private-sector employers by covering a portion of Saudi employees' wages. This initiative improves job security and incentivizes hiring, ultimately benefiting the entire tourism sector. Advancing Workforce Readiness with Training Programs Additionally, the ministry is advancing national workforce readiness through diverse and modern training programs under 'Ahlaha.' These programs are offered both locally and internationally to upskill Saudi talent and align with global tourism standards. The HRDF wage support program plays a critical role in promoting long-term employment for Saudi citizens by sharing salary costs with employers. Ultimately, this initiative strengthens the domestic labor market and supports the growth of the tourism sector. By investing in Saudi talent, the Ministry of Tourism aims to create a vibrant and sustainable workforce that drives economic development. Short link : Post Views: 1 Related Stories
Asharq Al-Awsat
22-05-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Private Sector Employment of Nationals Rises 93% in Q1
Saudi Arabia's Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF) announced a significant increase in the employment of Saudi nationals in the private sector, with 143,000 citizens hired through the Fund's programs during the first quarter of 2025, a 93% growth compared to the same period last year. In its quarterly report, the Fund also revealed that 1.18 million Saudis benefited from its training, empowerment, and career guidance services in Q1, marking a 4% year-on-year increase. More than 98,000 private sector establishments across various industries and regions of the Kingdom benefited from HRDF services during the same period, reflecting a 37% increase over Q1 of the previous year. Notably, 93% of these businesses were small, medium, or micro enterprises, underscoring the Fund's role in supporting grassroots economic development. HRDF disbursed SAR1.8 billion (approximately $480 million) during the quarter to support training, empowerment, and career counseling programs. HRDF Director General Turki Al-Jawini said the Fund operates in close partnership with public and private sector stakeholders to create job opportunities for Saudi nationals. He highlighted ongoing transformations within the Fund, driven by the government's commitment to investing in human capital. Al-Jawini noted that the growing number of individuals placed into jobs through HRDF initiatives reflects the Fund's strategic efforts to respond to labor market changes, improve workforce efficiency, and align with economic priorities. He added that the Fund continues to evolve its support programs to better meet the needs of the market and national development goals. HRDF's focus remains on providing tailored training and career development programs that equip Saudi talent for roles across key sectors, especially those identified as economic priorities.
Zawya
30-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Alshaya Group launches ‘Alshaya Retail Academy' to empower Saudi Youth in line with Saudi Vision 2030
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Alshaya Group, one of the world's leading international retail franchise operators announced the launch of the Alshaya Retail Academy aimed at training young Saudi men and women on the latest retail industry concepts and practices, in KSA. The academy was launched in partnership with several leading government entities, including the Human Resources Development Fund. By providing newly employed Saudi nationals with essential hands-on and theoretical training, Alshaya Retail Academy will directly contribute to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. This initiative not only prepares youth for successful retail careers, but also strengthens the national economy by enhancing their competitiveness in the global job market. The launch of the academy aligns with Alshaya's continued commitment to the region, especially with the opening of The Avenues in Riyadh and Khobar, creating additional opportunities for local talent and contributing to the Kingdom's growing retail sector. The inaugural event was attended by Mohammed Alshaya – Executive Chairman of Alshaya Group, John Hadden – CEO of Alshaya Group, Firas Aba Alkhail - Deputy General Manager for Business at the Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF), Muhammed Al Melhem Assistant Deputy Minister – Ministry of Commerce, Ibrahim Jubairi Gharwi, Assistant Deputy Minister for the Localization of Tourism, Eng. Abdul Rahman Al-Marwani, Assistant Deputy Governor of the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation, represented by Khalid Al-Nasser, Assistant Director General of the General Directorate for Private Sector Training. The attendees emphasised the importance of this initiative in enhancing the participation of Saudi youth in the labour market, which is essential to driving sustainable development and boosting economic growth in the Kingdom. The academy offers comprehensive training programmes, including one-month development courses, as well as three-month qualification courses. These programmes combine theoretical and practical training, enhancing trainees' opportunities to acquire market-ready skills that align with the rapid developments occurring in the retail sector in the Kingdom. 'At Alshaya, we believe in the importance of empowering Saudi youth by equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for their professional growth. We are committed to providing them with comprehensive and integrated training opportunities that help them thrive in the retail sector. This initiative aims to build a national workforce capable of adapting to the rapid changes occurring in the market, which aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030," said Mohammed Alshaya – Executive Chairman of Alshaya Group. Abdullah Faisal, Regional People Director at Alshaya Group, said: "At Alshaya Group, we are deeply committed to providing the best opportunities for all Saudi citizens, whether in employment or training. We take great pride in our established record of employing national talent and continuously strive to expand the opportunities available to them. Through the Alshaya Academy, we aim to empower our youth by equipping them with the essential skills needed to thrive across various sectors, while providing them with the tools necessary for success in the workforce, in alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. We are confident that the Alshaya Academy will serve as a cornerstone for developing talent and helping realize the aspirations of an ambitious generation dedicated to excellence and innovation, in collaboration with leading government bodies." Alshaya was recently awarded by The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in Saudi Arabia as a leading company in parallel training and feminisation. This recognition underscores our commitment to gender diversity and the empowerment of Saudi women in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. Currently, Alshaya runs professional training and mentoring programmes to ensure that Saudi nationals develop the skills they need during their career path. The company has successfully attracted around 4,000 Saudi females to work in world-leading brands such as Starbucks, The Cheesecake Factory, Shake Shack, Raising Cane's, H&M, American Eagle, Victoria's Secret, Bath & Body Works, and Foot Locker. About Alshaya Group Alshaya Group is a dynamic family-owned business, first established in Kuwait in 1890. With a consistent record of growth and innovation, Alshaya Group is one of the world's leading brand franchise operators, offering an unparalleled choice of over 70 well-loved, international brands to customers. Alshaya Group's portfolio extends across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), Türkiye and Europe, with over 4,000 stores, cafes, restaurants, and leisure destinations, major logistics and food production operations, as well as over 125 online and digital businesses including one of the region's biggest retail loyalty programmes, Aura. Operating in multiple sectors including Fashion, Food, Health & Beauty, Pharmacy, Home Furnishings and Hospitality & Entertainment, over 50,000 Alshaya colleagues are united by a commitment to authentically deliver great customer service and brand experiences. From flagship stores and restaurants in prestige malls, through to local coffee shops, drive-thrus and online, Alshaya Group brings customers the experiences they want with the brands they love, in the ways they choose - including Starbucks, American Eagle, Footlocker, Victoria's Secret, H&M, Bath & Body Works, Charlotte Tilbury, Raising Cane's, Shake Shack, and Chipotle.
Asharq Al-Awsat
27-04-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Vision Drives Localization, Reduces Unemployment to 7%
Since the launch of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 in 2016, the Kingdom has focused on a clear goal: building a diversified and sustainable economy, reducing its dependence on oil, and investing in the potential of its citizens. Nearly nine years of continuous effort later, the results today reflect a new reality, showcasing the success of Vision 2030 in transforming ambitions into tangible achievements, particularly in the labor market and the empowerment of national talent. Saudi Arabia's unemployment rate for nationals has dropped to its lowest level, registering 7% in 2024, achieving the Vision 2030 target ahead of schedule. This marks a significant achievement, considering that tackling unemployment was one of the strategic document's top priorities. The sharp decline is largely attributed to a substantial rise in Saudi women's participation in the labor market, which reached 36%, driven by a series of social and economic reforms. These initiatives have reshaped the role of women in development, opening vast opportunities in education, the workforce, and leadership positions. Vision 2030 initially aimed to raise women's labor force participation to 30% by 2030. With this target already surpassed a decade early, the goal has now been revised to 40% by 2030, reflecting the effectiveness of national policies in enhancing workforce localization and leveraging Saudi talent. Historically, Saudi Arabia's labor market has been heavily reliant on the public sector. However, Vision 2030 has driven a shift toward the private sector, with the number of Saudi nationals employed there rising from 1.7 million in 2020 to over 2.4 million in 2024. In 2024 alone, 437,000 citizens were hired in the private sector, supported by more than 7.5 billion riyals ($1.9 billion) from the Human Resources Development Fund for training, qualification, and career guidance programs. This reflects the government's commitment to preparing a generation capable of adapting to the demands of the evolving job market. These figures are not only significant in statistical terms, but also serve as a clear indicator of the fundamental transformation driven by Vision 2030 in the national economy. The vision has made empowerment, diversity, and sustainability key pillars in Saudi Arabia's path toward the future.
