A total of 147,000 Saudi men and women have joined the tourism sector as employees between 2020 and the first half of 2025, reflecting the results of a strategic partnership between the Saudi Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF) and the Kingdom’s expanding tourism industry.

HADAF stated that it continues to strengthen the national workforce’s capabilities through 19 specialized, employment-linked training agreements valued at more than $226.9 million. These agreements aim to train over 8,450 Saudis across various tourism professions, ensuring that training outcomes are directly connected to job opportunities.

The Fund also reported a 75% employment sustainability rate among those it supports in the tourism sector, highlighting the effectiveness of its programs and their alignment with industry needs. This achievement highlights the success of HADAF’s broader strategy to develop local talent for one of the Kingdom’s most dynamic and fast-growing sectors.

To further build human capital, HADAF has introduced 22 professional certifications in specialized tourism fields and launched 12 online training courses through its Doroob platform.

Additionally, the Fund has increased wage support for establishments in selected tourism-related activities, now covering 50% of salaries up to $800 per month—a measure designed to boost private sector participation and sustain employment growth.