As reported by the General Authority for Statistics, the combined unemployment rate encompassing both Saudi citizens and expatriates in the Kingdom has declined to a notably low level, reaching just 2.8%, reflecting ongoing improvements in the national labor market.
This marks the lowest figure ever recorded and reflects a quarterly drop of 0.7 percentage points. It also shows a similar annual decrease when compared to the first quarter of 2024. Among Saudi nationals, the unemployment rate declined to 6.3%, the lowest level on record.
The rate of Unemployment in the Kingdom among women saw a substantial improvement. Female labor force participation rose to 36.3%, with the employment-to-population ratio reaching 32.5%. Their unemployment rate dropped by 1.4 percentage points, landing at 10.5% for the quarter.
Saudi men also showed gains. The male labor force participation rate rose to 66.4%, while the employment-to-population ratio climbed to 63.8%. Their unemployment rate dropped slightly to 4.0%, compared to the previous quarter.
Young Saudi women between the ages of 15 and 24 also made notable gains. Their participation rate rose by 1.1 percentage points to 18.4%. The employment ratio increased to 14.6%, despite a minor rise in their unemployment rate to 20.7%.
By contrast, young Saudi men saw mixed results. Their participation rate dipped to 33.0%, and the employment ratio fell to 29.2%. However, their unemployment rate dropped to 11.6%, reflecting some overall improvement.
For Saudis aged 25 to 54, labor indicators were mostly positive. The participation rate climbed to 69.6%, and the employment ratio rose to 65.9%. Their unemployment rate decreased to 5.4%.
Most unemployed Saudis expressed flexibility regarding job offers. Over 94% said they would accept private-sector jobs. A majority were also willing to work long hours or commute for over an hour.,
The employment Deficit in Saudi Arabia declined reflecting sustained improvement in employment conditions. As labor participation rises and unemployment drops, Saudi Arabia continues to show signs of economic resilience and growth.
