The Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have signed an agreement to launch the third phase of their Programme of Cooperation, to strengthen labour market governance and promote decent work in the Kingdom
The new phase will build on ongoing collaboration and will focus on seven key areas, one of which is strengthening occupational health and safety. The other areas are promoting inclusive social dialogue and representation; ensuring fair recruitment and labour mobility of migrant workers; protecting the rights of domestic workers; expanding migrant workers’ access to fair judicial processes; improving social protection systems; and supporting the adoption of a fair and non-discriminatory minimum wage system.
The programme has a strong focus on improving conditions for vulnerable workers, including migrant and domestic workers, who make up a significant share of the workforce in Saudi Arabia. It will also enhance the institutional capacity of Saudi worker and employer representatives, including the Saudi National Committee of Workers Committees and the Federation of Saudi Chambers.
To support the programme, the ILO will establish a project team in Riyadh to provide technical assistance and coordinate activities with national stakeholders.
“This next phase of cooperation focuses on practical reforms to strengthen labour market institutions, improve working conditions and expand protections for vulnerable workers,” said ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo. “It reflects a shared commitment to advancing labour policies that are aligned with international standards and national priorities.”
Saudi Minister of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) Ahmed AlRajhi, said, “Our renewed partnership with the ILO underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to a fair, inclusive and future-ready labour market. Guided by Vision 2030, we have introduced wide-ranging reforms - from expanding labour mobility and wage protection to pioneering the first National Policy to Eliminate Forced Labour in the region, strengthening labour protections and promoting social justice at every level. As our labour market evolves, collaboration with the ILO helps us align with international standards and build a more sustainable and resilient future of work.”
Previous cooperation has made a significant contribution to labour reform in Saudi Arabia, supporting the development of national employment policies, advancing occupational safety and health standards, strengthening social dialogue institutions and promoting rights at work. It has resulted in improvements in female labour force participation, social dialogue mechanisms, skills governance and labour inspection systems.
