Saudi Arabia has introduced a new work permit system based on professional skills, aiming to attract qualified professionals and enhance the competitiveness of its labor market. The measure, announced by Minister of Human Resources Ahmed Al-Rajhi, classifies foreign workers into three categories—high-skill, skilled, and basic—based on academic qualifications, experience, technical abilities, salary level, and age. The system is effective as of July 1, 2025, for new arrivals, while the reclassification of expatriates already in the country began on June 18.
This reform is part of a significant economic expansion driven by the giga-projects of Vision 2030, such as NEOM, Red Sea Project, Qiddiya, and Diriyah Gate, which span sectors from construction and digital urbanism to healthcare and culture. These initiatives demand international standards, advanced know-how, and integrated management capabilities.
Italian engineers, architects, doctors, and specialists are highly regarded for their globally recognized expertise, from the quality of their design and infrastructure work to their precision in technical and scientific fields. The new Saudi classification system specifically rewards this type of professionalism, facilitating access to qualified positions and contracts that ensure skills are properly recognized.
The macroeconomic context reinforces this opportunity: the overall unemployment rate fell to a historic low of 2.8% in the first quarter of 2025, with the rate for expatriates at just 0.8%. This signals strong demand for specialized profiles and a favorable environment for attracting international talent.
For Italy, this represents an open channel to leverage its professional excellence in high-growth markets where the focus is increasingly shifting from the quantity to the quality of the workforce. It is a concrete chance to transform the “Made in Italy” reputation into economic and professional value in the heart of the Middle East.
