Total number of private sector workers in the Kingdom reached 11,572,408 last month Saudi nationals now constitute 2,369,828 employees, including 972,682 women and 1,397,146 men RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s private sector added 37,009 local employees in August, marking a 6.94 percent increase from July’s 34,606 new hires, the latest official data showed. According to the National Labor Observatory, the total number of private sector workers in the Kingdom reached 11,572,408 last month, up 0.86 percent from July’s 11,473,341. This growth highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to boosting national employment through strategic government initiatives aimed at enhancing local talent within the private sector. It also underscores the effectiveness of Saudi Arabia’s labor policies, which support the broader goals of Vision 2030 to diversify the economy and reduce oil dependency. Of the total workforce, Saudi nationals now constitute 2,369,828 employees, including 972,682 women and 1,397,146 men. The increase in female participation reflects ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusivity, aligning with the national goal of higher female workforce engagement. Expatriates made up the remaining 9,202,580 workers, comprising 8,812,758 men and 389,822 women. The contribution of foreign staff, particularly in sectors requiring specialized skills, remains vital as Saudi Arabia continues to balance national employment objectives with the need for a competitive and skilled workforce. The rise in first-time local hires, coupled with overall employment growth, highlights the success of the Private Sector Empowerment Program, known as Tawteen. This initiative encourages Saudization by offering incentives for companies to hire and train the Kingdom’s nationals. The government’s focus on job creation is a key aspect of its economic transformation plan, with an emphasis on developing a dynamic, inclusive labor market. Saudi Arabia’s private sector has been pivotal in reaching these milestones, supported by reforms from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. Recent labor market regulations, such as streamlined employment processes and reduced barriers for small and medium-sized enterprises, have further driven this growth. These reforms have improved working conditions, making private sector jobs more attractive to Saudis and enhancing competitiveness across industries. The Kingdom’s economic ambitions focus on developing a vibrant private sector capable of absorbing the increasing number of Saudis entering the workforce.