Human Resources Development Fund helps employ 329,000 Saudis in H1 2026

The Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF) supported the employment of 329,000 Saudi men and women in the labor market during the first half of 2026, achieving a 23% increase compared to the same period in 2025, according to official statistics announced by the fund in Riyadh on Tuesday.

The fund stated that these results reflect the effectiveness of its programs and initiatives in promoting quality and sustainable employment opportunities, enhancing the readiness of national talent, and contributing to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Human Capability Development Program.

Extensive financial support and diverse services

The fund noted that total direct financial support provided to individuals and businesses benefiting from training, empowerment, and guidance programs reached about SAR 4.9 billion during the same period. The total number of beneficiaries of the fund’s services and programs exceeded 1.69 million citizens, while more than 171,000 establishments across various regions and economic sectors of the Kingdom benefited from the fund’s services, representing a 25% increase compared to the first half of last year.

The fund added that small, medium, and micro enterprises accounted for 95% of all beneficiary establishments, underscoring continued support for private sector growth and its ability to attract national talent, enhance its contribution to economic development, and create job opportunities.

Key role in developing human capital

HRDF Director General Turki bin Abdullah Al-Jawini said these results reflect the strong support and attention the human resources sector receives from the Kingdom’s leadership, which has made investment in people a central pillar of national development. He explained that the fund continues to work in partnership with government entities and private sector establishments to develop more efficient and flexible support and empowerment solutions.

Al-Jawini also noted that the growing number of beneficiaries and establishments demonstrates the fund’s ability to keep pace with economic changes and labor market needs by designing programs and initiatives that meet the requirements of priority sectors, develop national skills, and boost competitiveness.

The Human Resources Development Fund continues to enhance its support and empowerment system to improve the efficiency of national human capital and help achieve the objectives of the National Labor Market Strategy, contributing to economic growth and sustainable development in the Kingdom.