Local News
Developer Scope 2026: A plan to localize 340,000 jobs in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has announced a new phase of the Nitaqat program, which will begin in 2026, with the aim of creating 340,000 jobs and supporting national talent in line with the goals of Vision 2030.
A strategic step towards achieving the goals of Vision 2030
The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced today (Thursday) the launch of a new and updated phase of the “Nitaqat Enhanced Program,” a strategic step aimed at boosting the participation of Saudi nationals in the labor market. This phase is scheduled to begin in 2026 and will extend for three years, targeting the Saudization of more than 340,000 jobs for Saudi men and women in private sector establishments. This will enhance the sustainability of the labor market and directly support the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Historical context: The evolution of the Nitaqat program since 2011
This announcement marks another step in the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to regulate the labor market, which effectively began with the launch of the Nitaqat program in 2011. The program was a turning point, classifying establishments into color-coded categories (red, yellow, green, and platinum) based on their Saudization rates, offering incentives to those who complied and imposing restrictions on those who did not. In 2021, the program underwent a significant transformation with the launch of Nitaqat Al-Mutawir (Developer Nitaqat), which abandoned fixed percentages and adopted a more dynamic model. This model links required Saudization rates to the number of employees in the establishment and the nature of the economic sector, thus providing greater flexibility for companies and directing Saudization towards high-quality jobs. The new phase, commencing in 2026, builds upon this developmental approach, focusing on creating sustainable jobs that align with future skills.
A flexible design that balances localization and private sector growth
His Excellency the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Engineer Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, affirmed that the new phase was meticulously designed to achieve a delicate balance between two strategic objectives: empowering national talent and increasing their participation in the labor market, and supporting the growth of the private sector and ensuring the smooth continuity of its operations. Al-Rajhi explained that the program is based on a comprehensive analysis of the labor market and the capabilities of establishments across various sectors. He noted that the experiences of previous phases have demonstrated the competence of Saudi citizens and their ability to excel and succeed in various professions with high efficiency, which served as a primary motivation for launching this ambitious phase.
Importance and expected impact on the national economy
This phase is expected to have a multifaceted positive impact. Domestically, it will contribute to reducing unemployment rates, raising the skill level of the national workforce, and increasing citizens' contribution to the GDP. As the Deputy Minister of Human Resources and Social Development for the Labor Sector, Dr. Abdullah Abu Thnein, explained, the Ministry conducted in-depth analytical studies to ensure that the targeted Saudization rates are realistic and take into account the specific circumstances of each sector, thus promoting job stability and increasing productivity. Regionally and internationally, this step enhances the attractiveness of the Kingdom's investment environment, demonstrating a commitment to building a sustainable economy based on qualified national talent—something foreign investors seeking long-term partnerships look for. These policies also contribute to building a more diversified and resilient economy and reducing reliance on expatriate labor in vital sectors, thereby strengthening the Kingdom's long-term economic security.
Local News
Weather in Saudi Arabia: Warning of strong winds and dust in most areas
The National Center for Meteorology warns of continued active winds stirring up dust and sand in Mecca, Medina and Riyadh, which will reduce visibility, with a chance of light rain in the north.
Warning from the National Center for Meteorology
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued a warning regarding the continued impact of active surface winds stirring up dust and sand on Thursday, which will reduce horizontal visibility across large parts of the Kingdom. The center explained that this weather condition will directly affect the regions of Mecca, Medina, and Tabuk.
Affected areas and the extent of the weather conditions
According to the weather report, this phenomenon is not limited to the aforementioned areas, but extends to include the western parts of the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, and Hail regions. Its effects also reach parts of the Riyadh region, as well as the Najran and Eastern regions, meaning that most of the Kingdom is under the influence of this active air mass.
The climatic context of the dust phenomenon in Saudi Arabia
Sandstorms and dust-laden winds are a common weather phenomenon in Saudi Arabia, due to its predominantly desert geography and the presence of vast desert areas such as the Rub' al Khali and the Great Nafud. These phenomena typically occur during the transitional periods between seasons, when the convergence of air masses with different temperatures and atmospheric pressures generates strong winds capable of carrying enormous quantities of sand and dust over long distances.
Expected effects and safety guidelines
These weather conditions have multiple impacts on daily life and public safety. On the health front, asthma and respiratory patients are advised to avoid going out unless absolutely necessary and to wear protective masks. On the roads, reduced visibility increases the risk of traffic accidents, requiring drivers to exercise extreme caution and reduce their speed. Air traffic at some airports may also be affected, potentially leading to delays or rescheduling of flights. The General Directorate of Civil Defense urges citizens and residents to stay updated on weather warnings and adhere to safety guidelines.
Chance of light rain in the north
In contrast, the National Center for Meteorology noted that the sky will be partly cloudy to cloudy over the northern parts of the Kingdom, with a chance of light rain. This rain, if it falls, could contribute to improving air quality and reducing dust levels in those areas.
Local News
Developing 17 public parking areas in Riyadh to support the Riyadh Metro
Riyadh Reemat announces a partnership to develop 17 public parking lots with an area of 60,000 square meters near Riyadh train stations and vital areas, with the aim of improving mobility and reducing congestion.
A partnership between “Reemat Riyadh” and “Innovation” to enhance the capital’s infrastructure
In a significant step aimed at improving quality of life and enhancing the transportation system in the Saudi capital, Riyadh Development Company (RIMAAT Riyadh), the development arm of the Riyadh Municipality, signed a strategic partnership agreement with Innovation and Development for Information Technology. This partnership focuses on developing and operating modern off-street public parking facilities in 17 key locations, including areas adjacent to Riyadh Metro stations, representing a major boost to the city's infrastructure.
Project background and strategic objectives
This project comes in the context of Riyadh's rapid population and urban growth, which has led to increased demand for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions. In line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes improving the quality of life in Saudi cities, the Riyadh Municipality, through its development arm, seeks to find innovative solutions to address the challenges of traffic congestion and parking shortages. The project aims to encourage the use of public transportation, primarily the Riyadh Metro, by providing "Park and Ride" parking facilities that allow residents and visitors to leave their cars and continue their journeys efficiently and easily via the metro network.
Project details and targeted locations
Under the agreement, Innovation Company, the developer of the popular ParkAway app, will develop and operate organized surface parking facilities on 17 strategic plots of land. These include seven plots located near Riyadh Metro stations in vibrant neighborhoods such as Al-Shuhada, Al-Mansoura, and Al-Sahafa. Additionally, 10 other plots will be developed in high-traffic areas within the Al-Rahmaniyah, Al-Murabba, and Al-Nasiriyah neighborhoods. These facilities will occupy a total area of approximately 60,000 square meters and are expected to provide nearly 1,700 organized parking spaces.
Expected impact on quality of life in the capital
This partnership is expected to have a tangible positive impact on Riyadh’s urban landscape. By increasing the supply of organized public parking, the project will help reduce haphazard parking and minimize vehicle intrusion into residential neighborhoods near commercial areas and metro stations. These parking spaces will also facilitate access to various destinations, both commercial and residential, thus improving the daily commute experience for residents and visitors. Abdullah Abudawood, CEO of Rimat Riyadh, emphasized that this initiative aims to maximize the utilization of municipal assets and develop sustainable regulatory solutions through partnerships with the private sector, thereby enhancing service efficiency and improving the overall mobility experience within the city.
The role of technology in improving user experience
For his part, Prince Sultan bin Saud bin Khalid, CEO of Innovation Company, explained that this partnership will leverage the company's expertise in managing public parking and utilize the advanced technological solutions offered by the "Park Away" application. The application will provide users with a seamless experience, including easy searching for available parking spaces, electronic payment, and reservation management, thereby increasing operational efficiency, reducing time wasted searching for parking, and enhancing the smart mobility system in Riyadh to match its status as a leading global capital.
Local News
The formation of the new Jeddah Airports Board of Directors to support Vision 2030
Jeddah Airports Company announced its new board of directors, chaired by Raed Al-Mudaiheem. The new board aims to enhance King Abdulaziz International Airport's role as a global logistics hub, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Jeddah Airports Company announced the formation of its new Board of Directors, a strategic move aimed at strengthening governance and leading the next phase of development and growth for King Abdulaziz International Airport. The new board will serve for three years, beginning January 10, 2024, under the chairmanship of Mr. Raed bin Ibrahim bin Sulaiman Al-Mudaiheem, with Mr. Raed bin Hassan Al-Idrisi serving as Vice Chairman.
The council includes a distinguished group of experts and specialists: Professor Ghassan bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al-Sulaiman, Professor Khalid bin Mansour Al-Salman representing the Public Investment Fund, and Professor Mohammed bin Abu Al-Khair Ismail representing the Guests of God Service Program. This diverse composition reflects the integration of expertise between the public and private sectors and a focus on major national objectives.
Strategic context within the national transformation
This restructuring comes as part of the comprehensive transformation underway in the civil aviation sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a cornerstone of achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Since its establishment in 2022, Jeddah Airports Company has been responsible for managing and operating King Abdulaziz International Airport, with the aim of transforming it into a leading global aviation hub. The company is working closely to implement the aviation program initiatives stemming from the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aim to increase the capacity of Saudi airports, enhance the Kingdom's air connectivity, and strengthen its position as a global logistics platform linking three continents.
The importance of King Abdulaziz International Airport
King Abdulaziz International Airport holds exceptional importance as the main gateway to the Two Holy Mosques, receiving millions of pilgrims and Umrah performers annually. Therefore, developing its services and enhancing the passenger experience is a top priority, directly aligning with the objectives of the "Guests of God Service Program," one of the key programs of the Vision. The presence of a program representative on the board of directors underscores the commitment to providing an exceptional and seamless travel experience for pilgrims.
Expected impact of the new council
The new board of directors is expected to play a pivotal role in accelerating airport development projects, overseeing operational efficiency improvements, and implementing the latest smart technologies to better serve passengers. The board will also work to strengthen strategic partnerships with global airlines and investors, contributing to increased non-oil revenues, diversification of income sources, and the company's financial sustainability. The expertise of the Public Investment Fund representative will be instrumental in guiding major investment decisions that will shape the airport's future and its international standing.
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