Saudi Job Market Hits 10-Year High in Non-Oil Sectors

Saudi Arabia’s non-oil private sector is hiring at its fastest pace in over a decade, according to new data from Riyad Bank’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI). The May 2025 report reveals that job creation has reached its highest level in more than ten years, driven largely by rising demand and a surge in construction activity.

The PMI score climbed to 55.8 in May, up from 55.6 the previous month, continuing a steady expansion trend in the Kingdom’s non-oil economy. Analysts attribute the uptick to strong domestic sales, robust marketing activity, and increased business confidence - now at an 18-month high.

Construction emerged as a primary growth engine, with companies ramping up hiring to keep pace with new projects. Roles in operations and sales have seen particular growth, as firms respond to local demand even while international order growth shows signs of cooling.

The momentum supports Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification, aiming to reduce reliance on oil and boost sectors such as construction, services, and tourism. The current hiring wave is viewed as a key signal that private sector confidence is translating into long-term investment and job creation.