#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Global Labor Market #Agreements

Global Labor Market Conference 2026 Concludes

The Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC) 2026 achieved a significant milestone today in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, concluding its third edition at the King Abdul Aziz International Conference Center. This event was held under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, highlighting the Kingdom's growing influence on labor policies worldwide.

Bringing together an impressive assembly of over 10,000 attendees, the conference included 40 labor ministers and more than 200 international speakers and experts from over 100 countries. The theme of this year's event, "Future in Progress,” underscored the focus on adapting to rapid changes in the global labor market.

One of the pivotal moments of the conference was the signing of 90 strategic agreements. These agreements, forged between government entities and the private sector, are aimed at enhancing the labor market and are expected to positively impact more than 6 million individuals both within Saudi Arabia and beyond.

The agreements concentrated on four main areas:
1. Development of Skills and Leadership Capabilities
2. Enhancing Digital Transformation and AI Adoption
3. Expanding Flexible and Freelance Employment Opportunities
4. Strengthening Sectoral Partnerships to align training with labor market needs, thus fostering sustainable economic growth.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Abuthnein, the Deputy Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, emphasized that GLMC is designed to facilitate ongoing collaboration. He mentioned that the conference is not merely a two-day event but a continuous platform for partnerships and knowledge exchange that extends throughout the year.

As part of an ongoing research agenda, the conference launched two significant reports, developed with the World Bank and shedding light on effective employment solutions and analyzing the transformation of Saudi Arabia's labor market over the last decade. These reports offer critical insights and guidance for policymakers seeking to design effective programs in an ever-evolving economic landscape.

The conference kicked off with a high-level Ministerial Roundtable coordinated by Minister Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, where 40 labor ministers convened to outline six decisive measures that will shape the future of work. The discussions were robust, focusing on actionable strategies and collaborative efforts between nations to tackle labor-related challenges.

In an inspiring note, the GLMC also celebrated the graduation of its first cohort from the Labor Market Academy, consisting of 36 graduates representing 34 countries. The second cycle was initiated, welcoming participants from 31 countries, including 19 first-time participants.

Overall, the outcomes of GLMC 2026 illustrate Saudi Arabia's commitment to pioneering labor market innovations and fostering global partnerships. The conference marked a new chapter in policy development, designed to prepare stakeholders for future transformations in the labor sector, reinforcing the nation’s pivotal role in shaping the future of work on a global scale.

Conclusion

This successful conference not only emphasizes the significant strides made in labor market improvements but also forecasts a collaborative future fueled by innovation and a shared vision for economic sustainability. As the world looks towards recovery and development, the principles established at GLMC will be crucial in navigating the complexities of modern labor challenges.