Skyscrapers are now being built by Indians.
New Delhi: The number of Indian workers in Saudi Arabia is continuously increasing. In 2023-24, the number of Indians residing there has crossed 2.65 million (26 lakh 50 thousand). This is not just a figure, but evidence of the strengthening ties between India and Saudi Arabia and the growing demand for Indian professionals.
In this oil-rich country, skyscrapers are now being built by Indian hands, high-tech companies are flourishing, and the participation of Indian workers and professionals is increasing in every sector.
Under the Saudi Government’s Vision 2030, the economy of the country is being diversified into new sectors away from oil. There has been an increased demand for skilled workers in sectors such as construction, infrastructure, telecom, IT, healthcare, and green energy. This is why a large number of people from India are going to Saudi Arabia in search of employment.
The Saudi government company Takamol Holding and India’s National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) have jointly started training for 65 professional skills, enabling Indian workers to easily find jobs.
The scope of Indian companies in Saudi Arabia has increased. Indian companies are also establishing their presence in Saudi Arabia. While there were only 400 Indian companies in 2019, their number has now reached nearly 3,000. Indian companies have invested billions of dollars in the construction, pharmaceuticals, financial services, and telecom sectors. Companies from India are now recognized not just for labour, but also for technology and innovation.
The Saudi government has made new reforms for Indian workers. A digital platform called Qiwa has been launched, where hiring companies upload employee contracts. This provides workers with transparent information and allows them to raise voice for their rights. Life is becoming easier for Indian workers, and their rights are being protected.
Trade between the two countries is also setting new records. In 2023-24, total trade between India and Saudi Arabia reached 43.3 billion dollars. The value of rice sent from India was 1 billion dollars, while India purchased 26.5 million metric tons of crude oil from Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Saudi Arabia remains India’s largest partner in fertilizer supply.
The Indian community in Saudi Arabia is now emerging not just as labourers, but as business partners, engineers, doctors, and technology experts. Their numbers are expected to increase in the coming years.
