In a move to localise its workforce and align skills training with labour market needs, Saudi Arabia has rolled out new short-term and diploma programmes focused on careers in the retail sector. The initiative, launched on 3 August by the Saudi Retail Academy is in partnership with the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF).
The programme aims to equip Saudi nationals with future-ready skills while creating structured career paths in the retail space.
The newly-introduced training tracks target roles such as brand manager, area manager, showroom manager and sales representative. Designed with flexibility in mind, the courses can be pursued either at the academy’s headquarters or while working on the job. The programmes integrate theoretical instruction with practical experience, ensuring that learners are job-ready upon completion.
One of the standout features of the initiative is its dual accreditation model. Graduates will receive certifications recognised by both the Saudi Technical and Vocational Training Corporation as well as the UK-based City & Guilds, a global authority in vocational education. This international accreditation is expected to enhance the credibility of the programmes and improve the employability of trainees in both domestic and global markets.
The training is either fully or partially subsidised by HRDF, reinforcing the kingdom’s ongoing investment in human capital as part of its Vision 2030 transformation strategy. Retail, a sector historically dependent on expatriate workers, is among the priority areas for localisation under this plan.
By providing clear career pathways and quality training, the Saudi Retail Academy is helping to redefine retail as a viable and respected profession for Saudi nationals. The Kingdom has been pushing to modernise its labour market, diversify the economy, and reduce dependence on foreign talent.
