The expansion of non-oil activities brings with it the acute need to make best use of manpower at all levels. Saudi Arabia has a small population relative to the size of its economy. Much of the economic expansion during the construction of the Kingdom’s infrastructure necessitated the use of expatriate labor. Developments in education and training are a clear indication that, just as the Government is reducing dependence on oil, so it is determined to reduce dependence on foreign labor, especially in the areas of science and technology.

The SIDF has played a key role in creating local Saudi industrial enterprises and the employment opportunities which they present. The wide range of locally manufactured goods now available in the Kingdom attests to the success of the SIDF’s contribution.