Saudi Unemployment Falls to 6.4% in Q1 2026

Saudi Arabia recorded a fresh drop in unemployment among its nationals in the first quarter of 2026, with the rate falling to 6.4% from 7.2% in the final quarter of 2025. The improvement was seen across both men and women, pointing to continued momentum in the local labor market.

The unemployment rate for Saudi men stood at 4.9% in the first quarter of 2026, down from the previous quarter. Among Saudi women, joblessness eased to 9.0%, also lower than the figure recorded in the last three months of 2025.

Why it matters

Falling unemployment is one of the most closely watched indicators of the health of the Kingdom's economy and the pace of job creation for citizens. The latest figures suggest that hiring conditions are strengthening and that more Saudis are finding work across sectors.

The continued decline in female unemployment is particularly notable, reflecting the growing participation of Saudi women in the workforce — a central goal of the country's long-term economic plans under رؤية السعودية 2030.

For residents and expats alike, a stronger labor market often signals broader economic stability, expanding business activity, and rising consumer confidence. Saudi Living will continue to track key economic indicators as new quarterly data is released.

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