By Viren Sookhun
Saudi Arabia is undergoing a rapid transformation under Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing reliance on oil. This shift has driven large-scale infrastructure, energy, and industrial development projects, creating significant demand for skilled professionals. Ambitious infrastructure projects, extensive tourism and transport developments, as well as a move into green hydrogen, are driving economic expansion. However, the pace and scale of these developments often outstrip the availability of local expertise, necessitating international talent to bridge the skills gap. These megaprojects require a skilled workforce that cannot be met solely by the local labour market. This presents a significant opportunity for Southern African artisans and engineers, whose expertise and experience make them ideal candidates for these roles.
Meeting the demand for skilled labour
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in futuristic cities and large-scale tourism destinations. Neom, for example, is a high-tech city incorporating clean energy powered flying taxis, high-speed transport systems, and solar-powered structures. Alongside this, significant expansion is underway at the King Salman International Airport and surrounding port infrastructure to support increased trade and travel. These vast projects require a highly skilled workforce, and despite efforts to reduce its unemployment rate, Saudi Arabia does not have enough labour to meet this demand.
A key aspect of these developments is Saudi Arabia’s investment in renewable energy, particularly green hydrogen. Neom is home to one of the world’s largest green hydrogen projects, aiming to produce sustainable fuel for export and domestic use. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to reduce its reliance on oil and become a leader in clean energy. The construction and maintenance of these hydrogen plants require specialised engineering skills, creating additional opportunities for Southern African artisans with expertise in energy infrastructure.
And the ideal workforce to meet this demand
Southern Africa, in particular, has long been recognised for its skilled workforce in engineering, construction, and mining. Many Southern African artisans undergo rigorous trade testing and internationally aligned qualification processes, ensuring they meet global standards. Their hands-on experience in infrastructure projects, from large-scale industrial developments to energy sector construction, aligns well with Saudi Arabia’s current needs.
Furthermore, one of the biggest advantages South African workers bring is their proficiency in English, which significantly reduces communication barriers in an Arabic-speaking environment. Compared to other international labour sources, Southern Africans offer not only technical skills but also clearer communication, making collaboration more efficient on complex projects.
Southern Africans also have a reputation for adaptability due to the country’s diverse linguistic and cultural landscape. With twelve official languages and a multicultural workforce, they are well-equipped to integrate into Saudi Arabia’s working environment.
Steps toward addressing the unemployment crisis
South Africa’s unemployment rate remains one of the highest globally. In the 4th quarter of 2024, the official unemployment rate was 31.9 %, with youth unemployment sitting at around 44.6 % for those aged 16-34. These statistics highlight the critical importance of creating employment opportunities for South Africans, especially the youth. Engaging in international projects, such as Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure developments, could provide valuable avenues for employment and skills development.
In addition, as mining becomes more automated, many skilled workers find themselves displaced. This talent pool can be redirected into opportunities such as Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure development. By investing in targeted upskilling initiatives, trade testing, and certification alignment, young South Africans can be prepared for high-demand roles in Saudi Arabia. The prospect of working on world-class projects provides not only employment but also career growth and international exposure for artisans and engineers.
A cost-effective yet competitive workforce
South African artisans offer a balance between high skill levels and cost-effectiveness. While they command competitive salaries, they remain more affordable than many Western labour markets. This presents a strong value proposition for international contractors managing Saudi Arabia’s large-scale projects.
Furthermore, South Africa’s time zone is only one hour behind Saudi Arabia, making communication with family and support systems back home much easier for expatriates. This factor enhances the attractiveness of Saudi Arabia opportunities for South African workers compared to roles in distant regions with considerable time differences.
While South Africa is a primary source of skilled labour, the broader Southern African region, including Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Mozambique, also has a wealth of experienced artisans. Expanding recruitment efforts to these countries can further strengthen the supply of skilled labour to Saudi Arabia, providing more opportunities for Southern African workers while supporting Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure goals.
Fostering long-term economic partnerships
Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure boom presents a unique chance for South African artisans and engineers to contribute to world-class projects while addressing local unemployment challenges. With strong technical skills, clear communication abilities, and internationally recognised qualifications, Southern African workers are well-positioned to meet Saudi Arabia’s growing demand for skilled labour. By focusing on upskilling and repurposing displaced workers from declining industries, Southern Africa can play a critical role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s transformative developments while creating new career pathways for its workforce.
As Saudi Arabia continues to modernise, strategic partnerships with international workforce specialists will be essential in facilitating these employment opportunities. Specialist recruiters can help match the right talent to the right roles, streamlining the hiring process and fostering long-term economic partnerships between Southern Africa and Saudi Arabia. A reputable turnkey temporary employment services company can facilitate a smooth hiring and placement process. These collaborations not only benefit individual workers but also strengthen trade and diplomatic relations, paving the way for continued cooperation and mutual economic growth.
Viren Sookhun is the MD at Oxyon People Solutions