The Human Resources Development Fund supported the employment of 329,000 Saudi citizens in the Kingdom's labor market during the first half of 2026, a 23% increase compared with the same period in 2025,
Total direct support disbursed to individuals and establishments for training, empowerment, and career guidance programs during the first half of 2026 reached about SAR 4.9 billion. The number of Saudi beneficiaries — men and women — of the Fund's programs and services exceeded 1.69 million citizens over the same period.
More than 171,000 establishments across Saudi Arabia benefited from the Fund's services in the first half of the year, with micro, small, and medium enterprises accounting for roughly 95% of beneficiary establishments — underscoring the central role of smaller businesses in creating jobs for citizens.
How the support works
Under the Fund's employer wage support programs in 2026, core assistance generally covers the lower of 50% of a Saudi employee's monthly wage or SAR 3,000 typically for up to 24 months, paid directly to the establishment. Higher combined support is possible through additional top-ups for qualifying categories.
Typical eligibility criteria for Saudi employees include Saudi nationality, an age between 18 and 60, not being a full-time student, a GOSI-registered salary between SAR 4,000 and SAR 15,000, and registration in GOSI with the same establishment for a minimum qualifying period. Programs are administered through digital government platforms, with beneficiaries accessing and managing their support via the Fund's official electronic portal.
The 2026 figures build on last year's results, when the Fund's programs contributed to employing more than 562,000 citizens in private sector establishments, spent over SAR 8.296 billion on training and empowerment, and reached more than 2 million citizens — a baseline that highlights the continued momentum in supporting Saudis in the labor market.
Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.
Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:
- Instagram - @saudiliving
- X - @saudiliving
- Facebook - @saudiliving
- YouTube - @saudiliving
Up Next
Saudi GDP Contracts 4.8% in Q2 2026 on Oil Drop
Saudi real GDP shrank 4.8% year-on-year in Q2 2026 as oil activity fell 24.7%, while non-oil and government sectors posted modest growth.
Aug 23,2026
Saudi Clay Pipes Seeks 70% Capital Cut
Saudi Vitrified Clay Pipes Company applies to reduce capital from SAR 150m to SAR 45.43m to offset accumulated losses, pending regulatory approval.
Aug 23,2026
New Rules to Protect Saudi Marine Environment Issued
Saudi Living reports on new executive regulations for sustainable marine and coastal management, with fines up to SAR 20 million for polluting marine waters.
Aug 23,2026
Shopping Malls & Markets in Riyadh: Full Guide
Your practical guide to Riyadh's malls and markets: luxury, family, and budget options, opening hours, parking, and pricing tips from Saudi Living.
Aug 23,2026Related Stories
Don't Miss Similar Listings
Be the first to know when new stories on this topic are published.
