Job Market Research in Saudi Arabia

1. What are the current job market trends in Saudi Arabia?

The current job market in Saudi Arabia is experiencing some significant trends, including:

1. Economic diversification and privatization: With the country’s move towards economic diversification and reducing its reliance on oil revenues, there has been a shift in the job market towards non-oil sectors such as healthcare, education, tourism, and technology. This means that there are growing opportunities for individuals with skills and experience in these fields.

2. Localization efforts: The Saudi government has been increasing its efforts to encourage companies to hire more local citizens instead of relying on expatriates. This has led to an increase in job opportunities for Saudi nationals, especially in sectors that were traditionally dominated by expatriate workers.

3. Upward trend in the gig economy: As technology advancements have made it easier for people to work remotely or on a freelance basis, there has been an increase in the number of people working in the gig economy. This trend is also prevalent in Saudi Arabia, with many young individuals choosing this type of work over traditional 9-5 jobs.

4. Growing demand for skilled workers: The Kingdom is investing heavily in industries such as construction, infrastructure, and renewable energy, leading to a high demand for skilled workers in these areas. Additionally, with the rapid growth of the startup scene in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, there is also a need for talent with skills related to entrepreneurship and innovation.

5. Increased focus on gender diversity: In recent years, there has been a push towards gender diversity and inclusion in the workforce. This is evident through initiatives like the Vision 2030 goals which aim for more women participating in the labor force. This shift has opened up new job opportunities for Saudi women across various industries.

6. Emphasis on digital transformation: With the rise of technology and automation across different sectors, there is a growing demand for tech-savvy professionals who can lead digital transformations within organizations.

Overall, while there may have been some setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the job market in Saudi Arabia remains relatively stable, with a strong focus on promoting economic growth and attracting more talent to support the country’s development goals.

2. How has the job market in Saudi Arabia been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?


The job market in Saudi Arabia has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As with many other countries, the Saudi Arabian economy has experienced a slowdown due to lockdowns and restrictions put in place to curb the spread of the virus.

1. Economic Impact:
The pandemic has had a major impact on the country’s economy, with a decline in oil prices and reduced demand for non-oil sectors such as tourism, retail, and construction. This has led to budget cuts and reduced spending, resulting in job losses across various industries.

2. Hiring Freeze:
Many companies have implemented hiring freezes or are delaying recruitment processes due to the uncertainty caused by the pandemic. A survey by KPMG found that around 85% of companies in Saudi Arabia have suspended hiring new employees for an indefinite period.

3. Layoffs:
With businesses facing financial challenges, some companies have resorted to layoffs to cut costs. This has resulted in a significant number of expatriates losing their jobs and leaving the country, creating a shortage of labor in certain industries.

4. Contract Cancellations:
Many companies have had to cancel contracts and projects, leading to a reduction in contract-based jobs and affecting both blue-collar and white-collar workers.

5. Reduced Working Hours & Pay Cuts:
To avoid layoffs, some companies have reduced their employees’ working hours or implemented pay cuts, causing financial strain on workers.

6. Impact on Specific Industries:
Industries heavily dependent on air travel such as aviation and tourism have been severely affected by travel restrictions, leading to significant job losses. The energy sector has also faced challenges due to falling oil prices.

7. Increase in Remote Work:
The pandemic has also accelerated the trend of remote work in Saudi Arabia, with many companies implementing work-from-home policies for their employees’ safety. This has resulted in increased demand for e-commerce platforms but also affected traditional brick-and-mortar businesses and their employees.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the Saudi Arabian job market, leading to layoffs, hiring freezes, pay cuts, and reduced working hours. The extent of the damage will depend on how long the pandemic persists and how quickly the economy can recover.

3. What industries are thriving in the job market of Saudi Arabia?


Some of the industries that are currently thriving in the job market of Saudi Arabia include:

1. Oil and gas – The energy sector remains one of the most important and dominant industries in Saudi Arabia, with the country being one of the world’s largest oil producers and exporters.

2. Construction – With several large-scale development projects currently underway, there is a high demand for skilled professionals in the construction industry.

3. Healthcare – As the population continues to grow and age, there is a growing need for healthcare professionals, especially in fields such as nursing, medicine, and allied health.

4. Information technology – The Saudi government has invested heavily in developing its information technology sector, creating many job opportunities in areas such as software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity.

5. Finance and banking – The financial sector is an important contributor to the Saudi economy and offers numerous job opportunities for finance professionals.

6. Tourism and hospitality – In recent years, Saudi Arabia has been working towards diversifying its economy by boosting its tourism industry, leading to increased job opportunities in this sector.

7. Education – The government’s focus on improving education has created a demand for qualified teachers and administrators at all levels.

8. Retail and consumer goods – With a rapidly growing population and increasing demand for consumer goods, there are ample opportunities for employment in retail and consumer goods industries.

9. Manufacturing – The manufacturing sector is another area that is steadily growing in Saudi Arabia, providing job opportunities in sectors such as automobile manufacturing, food processing, and petrochemicals production.

10. Mining – Saudi Arabia has significant mineral resources and is investing in expanding its mining industry, offering various employment opportunities in this field.

4. Are there any emerging or growing industries in the job market of Saudi Arabia?


Yes, there are several emerging and growing industries in the job market of Saudi Arabia, including:

1. Healthcare: The Saudi government has made significant investments in the healthcare sector, leading to an increased demand for skilled healthcare professionals.

2. Tourism: With the country’s recent relaxation of visa requirements, tourism is expected to be a major contributor to the economy and job market in Saudi Arabia.

3. Technology: The rise of digitalization and smart cities has led to a growing demand for professionals in fields such as information technology, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

4. Energy: As one of the world’s top oil-producing countries, Saudi Arabia continues to invest in its energy industry and requires skilled professionals in areas such as engineering, project management, and renewable energy.

5. Education: The government’s initiatives to improve the education system have created opportunities for teachers and educators in both public and private schools.

6. Finance and banking: The financial sector is experiencing growth due to increased investment opportunities, leading to a higher demand for financial analysts, bankers, accountants, and other related professionals.

7. Construction: The ongoing development projects across the country have generated a need for professionals in the construction industry such as architects, engineers, project managers, and labor workers.

8. Retail and consumer goods: With a growing population and increasing spending power among consumers, there is a need for professionals in various roles within the retail and consumer goods sector.

9. Logistics and transportation: The country’s strategic location as a key trade hub has resulted in an increase in demand for logistics and transportation professionals.

10. Entertainment industry: In line with the government’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy away from oil dependency, there has been a focus on developing the entertainment sector which has created employment opportunities in fields like film production, event management, digital content creation etc.

5. How does the unemployment rate in Saudi Arabia compare to other countries?


According to the World Bank, as of 2019, the unemployment rate in Saudi Arabia is approximately 5.76%. This is relatively low compared to other countries such as South Africa (28.74%), Spain (14.1%), and Italy (10.3%).

Compared to its neighboring Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Saudi Arabia has a lower unemployment rate than Bahrain (6%) and Oman (7%), but slightly higher than Qatar (5.3%), Kuwait (2.2%), and the United Arab Emirates (2.1%).

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s unemployment rate falls within the average range compared to other developed and developing countries globally.

6. What is the average salary range for different job roles in Saudi Arabia?


The average salary range for different job roles in Saudi Arabia varies depending on the industry and level of experience. Here are some examples of average monthly salaries for popular job roles in Saudi Arabia, based on data from Salary Explorer:

1. Accountant: SAR 6,500 – SAR 15,000
2. Marketing Manager: SAR 10,000 – SAR 30,000
3. Human Resources Manager: SAR 12,000 – SAR 35,000
4. Sales Executive: SAR 7,000 – SAR 20,000
5. Software Engineer: SAR 10,500 – SAR 25,000
6. Nurse: SAR 4,500 – SAR 15,000
7. Teacher: SAR 7,500 – SAR 18,000
8. Project Manager: SAR 12,000 – SAR 40,000
9. Operations Manager: SAR 15,000 -SAR45 ,000
10. Executive Assistant: SAR7 ,500- S AR17 ,00

7. Are there any specific skills or qualifications that are highly sought after in the job market of Saudi Arabia?


Skills and qualifications highly sought after in the job market of Saudi Arabia include:
1. Arabic language proficiency: As it is the official language of Saudi Arabia, proficiency in spoken and written Arabic is a valuable skill for job seekers.

2. Technical skills: In line with Saudi Arabia’s growing focus on technological development, employers look for candidates with technical skills such as IT, data analysis, and programming.

3. Industry-specific certifications: Certain industries, such as healthcare and finance, may require specific certifications or licenses for certain roles.

4. International experience: With Saudi Arabia’s efforts towards globalization and attracting foreign investment, multilingual and globally experienced candidates are highly valued by employers.

5. Cultural sensitivity: Due to the diverse population in Saudi Arabia, employers seek individuals who are culturally sensitive and can work effectively in a multicultural environment.

6. Leadership skills: Employers value candidates who possess leadership qualities such as communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and adaptability.

7. Education qualifications: Higher education degrees from reputable universities are important for many jobs in Saudi Arabia, especially those in managerial or specialized positions.

8. Soft skills: Employees who have excellent interpersonal skills like teamwork, time management, and leadership are highly sought after by employers in Saudi Arabia.

9. Project management skills: The ability to manage projects efficiently is crucial for many companies operating in Saudi Arabia. Candidates with project management expertise are highly desirable.

10.Remaining updated with laws and regulations: It is essential to keep oneself updated about laws and regulations that govern the work environment of various sectors because that ensures compliance at all times This helps an individual save time which would otherwise be wasted on futile activities along with substantial fines or penalty amongst other consequences if any violation takes place owing to non-compliance scenarios which could be easily avoided investing minimal time/effort keeping abreast of changes as national/local government bodies begin implementing new plans thereby creating numerous employment opportunities regularly presenting themselves resulting therein!

8. How do local businesses and international corporations contribute to the job market of Saudi Arabia?


Local businesses and international corporations both play a significant role in creating job opportunities in Saudi Arabia. Here are some of the ways they contribute to the job market:

1. Employment in various sectors: Local businesses and international corporations operate in different sectors of the economy, such as oil and gas, finance, construction, healthcare, education, etc. This means that they provide employment opportunities for people with diverse skills and backgrounds.

2. Diversification of job market: The presence of international corporations brings a diverse range of job opportunities to Saudi Arabia. These companies bring in new technologies, processes and expertise that require skilled workers, leading to the growth of specialized jobs in the country.

3. Investment in infrastructure: International corporations invest heavily in building infrastructure such as factories, offices, warehouses, etc., which creates additional jobs for construction workers and other laborers.

4. Training and development: Both local businesses and international corporations invest in training and developing their employees to increase their skills and efficiency. This not only benefits the individual employees but also strengthens the overall talent pool in the country.

5. Attracting foreign talent: The presence of multinational companies attracts highly skilled expatriates from all over the world who bring new ideas and knowledge to the job market in Saudi Arabia.

6. Generating indirect employment: Local businesses and international corporations create indirect employment opportunities through their supply chains. This includes suppliers, logistics companies, maintenance services, etc., which further contribute to economic growth.

7. Encouraging entrepreneurship: With their established networks and resources, multinationals can also help stimulate entrepreneurship by partnering with small local businesses or investing in startup companies.

8. Global exposure for Saudis: Working with international corporations provides Saudis with valuable exposure to different cultures, business practices, and work environments than what is available locally. This helps them gain global experience without leaving their home country.

In summary, both local businesses and international corporations contribute significantly to the job market of Saudi Arabia by creating various job opportunities, promoting economic growth, and investing in the development of skilled workers.

9. Is there a gender wage gap present in the job market of Saudi Arabia?

According to a report by the World Bank, there is indeed a gender wage gap present in Saudi Arabia. The report states that the gender wage gap is around 26.6%, with women earning an average of $0.60 for every $1 earned by men. This gap is primarily attributed to the limited job opportunities for women and their lack of equal access to education and training opportunities. Additionally, cultural norms and discriminatory practices also contribute to this gap. However, efforts are being made by the government and other organizations to address this issue and promote gender equality in the country’s workforce.

10. Have there been any recent changes to labor laws or policies affecting the job market in Saudi Arabia?


Yes, there have been several recent changes to labor laws and policies in Saudi Arabia that have affected the job market. These changes include:

1) The implementation of a five percent expat levy, which requires companies to pay a fee for each non-Saudi employee they hire.

2) The introduction of the “Saudization” program, which aims to increase the percentage of Saudi nationals in the workforce by encouraging companies to prioritize hiring locals over foreign workers.

3) The issuance of new regulations for part-time employment, allowing companies to hire workers for specific tasks or projects on a part-time basis.

4) The introduction of the Wage Protection System (WPS), which requires employers to transfer salaries directly to their employees’ bank accounts, ensuring timely and accurate payments.

5) Changes to the sponsorship system, known as “Kafala”, which now allows workers to switch jobs without their employer’s permission after the expiration of their work contract.

These changes are part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts towards economic reform and reducing dependence on oil revenues by creating more job opportunities for its citizens.

11. Are there any government initiatives or programs supporting job creation and employment growth in Saudi Arabia?


Yes, there are several government initiatives and programs aimed at creating new job opportunities and promoting employment growth in Saudi Arabia. Some of these include:

1. National Transformation Program (NTP): This is part of the country’s Vision 2030 plan aimed at diversifying the economy and creating new job opportunities in sectors such as tourism, healthcare, logistics, and technology.

2. Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF): This fund provides training programs to improve the skills of the local workforce and help them find better job opportunities.

3. Nafiz Program: This program aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by providing them with loans and consultancy services to help create new jobs in various industries.

4. Hafiz Program: This program is dedicated to increasing the participation of women in the workforce through education, training, and providing flexible work arrangements.

5. Nitaqat Program: This Saudization initiative aims to increase employment of Saudi nationals in both private and public sectors by setting quotas for companies based on their size and industry.

6. Mazaya Program: This program offers financial incentives to companies that employ Saudi nationals for certain positions or have a high Saudization percentage.

7. Job Creation Commission (JCC): Established in 2017, this commission works towards improving skill levels among Saudis, encouraging entrepreneurship, and attracting foreign investments to promote job growth.

8. Technical & Vocational Education & Training (TVET) system: The government has invested heavily in vocational training programs to provide the required skills for specific industries to address the skills gap in the labor market.

9. National Housing Program: This program aims to provide affordable housing options for citizens which can help reduce living costs for Saudi workers, contributing towards attracting more expatriate workers to fill labor market gaps.

10. Initiatives targeting specific demographics: The government has also launched initiatives targeting specific demographics such as young graduates through Ma’arouf, a graduate employment program, and older workers through the National Labor Gateway (TAQAT) that provides training and employment matching services.

11. Attracting foreign investments: The government aims to attract foreign investments in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing to create new job opportunities for both Saudis and expatriates.

12. How do educational institutions and workforce training programs prepare individuals for the job market of Saudi Arabia?


Educational institutions in Saudi Arabia focus on preparing students for the job market by providing them with a strong academic foundation and practical skills. They promote technical and vocational education, which equips students with the necessary skills to meet the needs of specific industries. Workforce training programs are also widely available in Saudi Arabia to help individuals gain specialized skills required in the job market.

Here are some ways educational institutions and workforce training programs prepare individuals for the job market of Saudi Arabia:

1. Developing a strong academic foundation: The primary goal of educational institutions is to provide students with a solid academic background. This includes courses in science, mathematics, English, and other core subjects that prepare individuals for various career paths.

2. Emphasizing technical and vocational education: Technical and vocational education plays an important role in preparing individuals for jobs in high-demand industries such as engineering, construction, healthcare, and information technology. These programs equip students with practical skills and hands-on training that make them job-ready upon graduation.

3. Partnering with industry experts: Educational institutions often collaborate with industry experts to develop curriculums that align with the current demands of the job market. This ensures that students gain relevant knowledge and skills that will make them competitive candidates for employment.

4. Offering internships and apprenticeships: Many universities offer internship opportunities to their students where they can gain hands-on experience while still studying. These internships provide valuable learning experiences and give students a chance to network with potential employers.

5. Providing career counseling services: Most educational institutions have career counseling centers that offer guidance on job markets trends, resume writing, interview preparation, and other essential career skills.

6. Offering specialized workforce training programs: In addition to traditional academic degrees, many institutes also offer specialized workforce training programs in areas such as business administration, logistics, customer service, computer programming, language proficiency, among others.

7. Encouraging entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurship has become a major focus in the Saudi job market, with the government promoting it as a means of economic diversification. Many educational institutions offer courses and programs that promote entrepreneurship and innovation.

8. Adapting to technological advancements: In line with the Saudi government’s efforts to modernize the economy, educational institutions have started incorporating modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and robotics into their curriculums to prepare students for jobs of the future.

9. Collaborating with foreign universities: Many educational institutions in Saudi Arabia have partnerships with renowned international universities. This collaboration provides students access to global education and training opportunities, making them competitive in the global job market.

10. Cultural sensitization: With a diverse workforce in Saudi Arabia, educational institutions also promote cultural sensitivity and awareness through courses on cross-cultural communication and understanding.

In conclusion, Saudi Arabian educational institutions and workforce training programs provide individuals with a variety of options to prepare themselves for the job market. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills and focusing on current industry demands, these programs help create a skilled workforce ready to meet the needs of the country’s growing economy.

13. What is the overall employment rate and turnover rate in Saudi Arabia?


As of 2020, the overall employment rate in Saudi Arabia is estimated to be 86%, with roughly 14% of the population being unemployed. The turnover rate varies by industry and company, but on average it is around 15-20%.

14. Is remote work becoming more common in the job market of Saudi Arabia?


Yes, remote work is becoming more common in the job market of Saudi Arabia due to various reasons such as technological advancements, changing attitudes towards traditional office work, and the need for flexibility in the workplace. Many companies in Saudi Arabia are also recognizing the benefits of remote work, such as higher productivity and cost savings. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work in Saudi Arabia as many businesses were forced to switch to remote operations during lockdowns.

15. How competitive is the job market currently for recent graduates?


The job market for recent graduates can vary depending on the industry and location. Generally speaking, it is competitive as there are often a large number of qualified candidates vying for limited entry-level positions. However, certain industries may have a stronger demand for recent graduates, making the job market more favorable in those fields. Additionally, having relevant experience and a strong skill set can give recent graduates an advantage in the job market. Overall, it is important for recent graduates to be proactive in their job search and to differentiate themselves from other candidates in order to increase their chances of landing a job.

16. Do expats have equal opportunities in landing jobs compared to locals in Saudi Arabia?


The opportunities for expats to find jobs in Saudi Arabia vary depending on their qualifications, skills, and experience. In some industries where there is a shortage of skilled local workers, expats may have higher chances of securing a job. However, in other industries that prioritize hiring local talent, expats may face more challenges.

Overall, the Saudi government has implemented policies to increase the employment of locals in both public and private sectors. These policies include quotas for the number of locals that companies can hire and training programs to improve their skills.

In addition, employers are required to prioritize hiring Saudi nationals over expats unless there are no qualified candidates available. This can make it more difficult for expats to secure certain types of jobs in the country.

However, there are still ample opportunities for expats to find employment in Saudi Arabia, especially in fields such as engineering, healthcare, finance and banking, IT and telecommunications. It is important for expats to research the job market and understand the requirements and preferences of potential employers before applying for a job in Saudi Arabia.

17. Are there any particular areas or regions within Saudi Arabia with a better job market than others?

There are certain industries and regions that have a stronger job market in Saudi Arabia. These include:

1. Oil and Gas Industry: The oil and gas industry is the biggest employer in Saudi Arabia, with numerous job opportunities for both Saudis and expats.

2. Healthcare Industry: With a growing healthcare sector, there is demand for skilled doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.

3. Education Sector: As part of the Vision 2030 plan, the government is investing heavily in the education sector, creating more job opportunities for teachers and educational professionals.

4. Construction Industry: There are ongoing construction projects in various cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, providing job opportunities for engineers, architects, project managers, and other related professions.

5. Information Technology (IT) Industry: With a focus on building a digital economy, there is an increasing demand for skilled IT professionals in Saudi Arabia.

6. Hospitality Industry: The tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is rapidly developing, creating jobs in hotels, restaurants, and tourism-related businesses.

7. Eastern Province: The Eastern Province has a strong industrial presence with major companies such as Saudi Aramco located there, offering job opportunities across various sectors.

8. Riyadh: As the capital city of Saudi Arabia and its largest city by population, Riyadh offers diverse job opportunities across industries.

9. Jeddah: With its strategic location on the Red Sea coast and as a major commercial hub of the country, Jeddah has a thriving job market with many international companies having a presence there.

Overall, different regions may have varying job markets depending on the overall economic activity and investment in different industries. Factors such as population density and infrastructure development also play a role in creating employment opportunities in specific areas within Saudi Arabia.

18 .What role does networking and personal connections play in finding employment opportunities in Saudi Arabia?


Networking and personal connections play a significant role in finding employment opportunities in Saudi Arabia. In the Saudi Arabian culture, relationships and personal connections hold great importance in both personal and professional life. Therefore, having a strong network of contacts can open up many job opportunities.

1. Access to hidden job market: Many job openings in Saudi Arabia are not advertised publicly but are filled through internal referrals or recommendations from within the company. Having a network of personal connections can give individuals access to these hidden job markets, increasing their chances of getting hired.

2. Recommendations and referrals: In Saudi Arabia, employers value recommendations and referrals from trusted individuals within their network. If you have a strong relationship with someone in your professional network, they may recommend you for any suitable job openings within their company.

3. Insider information: Networking allows individuals to gain insider information about companies, industries, and job opportunities before they are made public. This gives them an advantage in applying for jobs before others and preparing accordingly.

4. Building trust with employers: In the conservative culture of Saudi Arabia, it is crucial to establish trust before conducting business or entering a professional relationship. By networking and building personal connections with potential employers, individuals can establish trust and increase their chances of being considered for employment.

5. Understanding cultural norms: Networking helps individuals understand the cultural norms and values of the country better, which can be helpful in interviews and during the recruitment process.

6. Finding mentors or sponsors: Personal connections can also lead to finding mentors or sponsors who can guide individuals in their career development journey in Saudi Arabia.

In conclusion, networking and personal connections play a vital role in finding employment opportunities in Saudi Arabia due to the emphasis placed on relationships and trust in business culture. Building meaningful relationships with professionals across various industries can open doors to numerous job opportunities and help advance one’s career.

19. Are internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions readily available for those seeking entry into certain industries within Saudi Arabia’s job market?


Yes, internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level positions are available in various industries within the job market in Saudi Arabia. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has initiatives in place to increase the number of internship and apprenticeship opportunities for Saudi nationals. Additionally, many companies offer graduate training programs and entry-level positions for recent graduates. These can be found through online job portals, company websites, or recruitment agencies.

20. What challenges do foreign workers face when trying to enter or find employment within the job market of Saudi Arabia?


Some challenges foreign workers may face when trying to enter or find employment in the Saudi Arabian job market include:

1. Difficulty obtaining a work visa: Non-Saudi nationals are required to have a valid work visa to legally work in the country. This process can be lengthy and complicated, and the employer must sponsor the employee’s visa.

2. Limited job options: The Saudi Arabian job market is heavily reliant on oil and gas industries, which may limit job opportunities for foreign workers in other sectors. Many positions are also reserved for Saudi citizens under the Saudization policy.

3. Language and cultural barriers: Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia, so non-Arabic speakers may struggle to communicate in the workplace. Furthermore, the country has strict cultural norms and practices that foreign workers must adapt to.

4. Discrimination: Foreign workers may face discrimination based on their nationality, ethnicity, or gender in terms of hiring, salary, or benefits.

5. High competition: Due to limited job opportunities and high unemployment among Saudis, there is stiff competition for jobs among foreign workers.

6. Lack of legal protection: Labor laws in Saudi Arabia favor employers over employees, making it challenging for foreign workers to seek legal recourse in case of disputes with their employers.

7. Lack of knowledge about labor laws: Many foreign workers are not aware of their rights under Saudi labor laws, which puts them at a disadvantage in case of any workplace issues.

8. Sponsorship system: Foreign workers are required to have a local sponsor (usually their employer) who oversees their legal status and can control their ability to leave the country or switch jobs.

9. Gender restrictions: Women face additional challenges due to strict gender segregation and conservative dress codes enforced in many workplaces.

10.Wage delays or withholding of passports: Some employers withhold wages from their employees or retain their passports as leverage, leading to exploitation of foreign workers.