JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has launched a new skill-based work permit system aimed at attracting global talent and aligning its workforce with the Kingdom’s growing economic needs.
The move, announced by Human Resources Minister Ahmed Al-Rajhi, classifies expatriate workers into three categories, high-skill, skilled, and basic, based on their education, experience, technical skills, age, and salary
The system took effect for new incoming workers on July 1, while the reclassification of existing expatriates began on June 18, according to the Saudi Press Agency and a ministerial notice.
The Kingdom’s demand for skilled professionals is growing amid a wave of giga-projects, including NEOM, the Red Sea Project, Qiddiya, and Diriyah Gate, which span sectors ranging from construction and design to technology and tourism.
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These developments require a high concentration of specialised foreign talent to meet tight delivery timelines and global standards.
The move is part of a broader strategy to enhance productivity, mitigate skill mismatches, and support Saudi Arabia’s long-term economic objectives under Vision 2030.
“The measure aims to enhance worker performance, attract global talent to transfer expertise and experience to the Saudi labour market, improve operational efficiency, benefit from international experience, and build an environment that supports innovation and the development of business models,” the SPA report stated.
Expatriates remain a critical part of the labour market, accounting for 15.7 million people, or 44.4 per cent of the total population, according to GASTAT data for 2024. Among the working-age group — 15 to 64 years — 89.9 per cent of non-Saudis fall within this range, underscoring their role in the Kingdom’s productive sectors.