Global Labor Market Conference Concludes with 90 Agreements Benefiting Over 6 Million People

Conclusion of the Global Labor Market Conference 2026

The Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC) 2026 marked a significant milestone in international labor discussions as it wrapped up its third edition today at the King Abdul Aziz International Conference Center in Riyadh, under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. This year's event attracted a remarkable turnout of over 10,000 attendees, including 40 labor ministers and more than 200 international speakers and experts hailing from over 100 nations.

The conference centered on the theme "Future in Progress" and was organized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD). Over the course of the event, a total of 90 strategic agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were signed between various government entities and private sector stakeholders. These initiatives aim to bolster the job market and are expected to benefit in excess of 6 million people both within Saudi Arabia and abroad.

These agreements focus on four critical areas: the development of skills and leadership capabilities, the promotion of digital transformation and the integration of artificial intelligence, the expansion of flexible and freelance employment opportunities, and the strengthening of sector-specific partnerships that align education with the needs of the job market, thereby supporting sustainable economic growth.

During the closing remarks, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Abuthnein, the Deputy Minister for Human Resources and Social Development in the labor sector, emphasized the importance of the GLMC as a platform that fosters collaboration beyond the conference days. He stated that ongoing discussions and partnerships will facilitate continued cooperation throughout the year, addressing both current and future challenges in the labor market.

Complementing the conference discussions, GLMC, in partnership with the World Bank, released two significant reports: "What Works for Work: A Guidebook to Proven and Promising Employment Solutions" and "A Decade of Progress." These publications are designed to assist policymakers in crafting effective labor market frameworks amid rapid economic and technological changes, while also providing insights into the transformation of Saudi Arabia's labor market over the past decade, aligned with the Vision 2030 objectives.

The conference commenced with a high-level ministerial roundtable led by His Excellency Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, which Include 40 labor ministers and the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO). A consensus was reached on six key actions that will shape the future of work.

In addition, the GLMC celebrated the graduation of the first cohort from the Labor Market Academy, comprising 36 graduates from 34 countries, while simultaneously launching the second cohort with participants from 31 nations. This highlights the international and collaborative spirit of the conference, with 19 countries participating for the first time.

The success of this year's GLMC underscores Saudi Arabia's growing role in shaping the future global labor market through innovation, partnerships, and workforce empowerment. As the conference closes, it not only marks a conclusion but signifies the initiation of a new phase focused on developing effective strategies and preparing for future labor market shifts.