RIYADH — The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) continues to offer support to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups through its Qiwa platform, which provides a range of online services developed to streamline and simplify labor law requirements for business owners. The aim of MHRSD is to ensure the success, continuity, and contribution of new businesses to the national economy and their role in providing sustainable jobs for Saudis. MHRSD also offers support to entrepreneurs who are at the stage of launching new enterprises by providing online services which reduce the need for paperwork and in-person calls. Through Qiwa business owners will also be provided with an interactive Saudization plan which will ensure they meet their Saudization requirements. The step will also ensure new jobs are created for Saudis. Moreover, the emerging businesses will benefit from an Establishment Balance in the Nitaqat Program by granting them a grace period for one year. This step aims to support the emerging businesses, in raising their contribution in the national economy and the local content. The range of services offered on Qiwa reflect MHRSD’s commitment to support entrepreneurs by facilitating business set-up procedures and automating its services, in line with the Kingdom’s digital transformation program. The streamlining of services to reduce time, effort, costs, enhance transparency and speed decision-making processes, are also aimed at attracting foreign investment. Qiwa aims to create an integrated and competitive labor market, enhance Saudization and improve relationships between employers and employees by making its services more user-friendly. The platform was launched 2 years ago to improve business and individual experiences and enhance the range of labor services provided by the HRSD. — SG