Saudi Arabia has announced the completion of the first phase of its vocational verification programme, which now encompasses 128 countries. This initiative, spearheaded by the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources, is part of a broader effort to regulate the labour market and ensure that incoming workers possess the necessary skills and educational credentials.
In line with a cabinet decree, the programme focuses on verifying the qualifications of workers in highly skilled vocations to ensure they meet the accredited skill criteria required in Saudi Arabia. The verification process operates through a unified platform dedicated to vocational assessment, offering streamlined and efficient procedures.
The ministry emphasized that this initiative is crucial in curbing the influx of unskilled foreign workers, enhancing the skill data of expatriates, and boosting productivity levels within the kingdom. As part of its ongoing efforts, the ministry plans to extend the programme's coverage to 160 countries, encompassing various professions including engineering and healthcare.
The vocational verification programme, launched early last year, includes both practical and theoretical assessments across 23 vocational categories. Workers must pass these tests in their home countries to be eligible for visas to Saudi Arabia.
This coordinated effort with relevant government agencies is seen as a significant step towards ensuring that the Saudi labour market is populated by qualified and skilled professionals, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and productivity of the workforce.
