ALEC boosts local workforce with ‘AHLAN’ program in Saudi Arabia's construction sector

ALEC Engineering, a major player in the construction industry, has launched a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the participation of Saudi nationals in the construction sector. This effort, named the ‘AHLAN’ program, focuses on equipping Saudi nationals with key business and technical skills through an immersive, month-long onboarding process. The initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which seeks to increase local employment in various sectors, including construction.

The program includes a comprehensive blend of training sessions, workshops, and mentorship opportunities designed to rapidly ramp up the capabilities of new entrants. ALEC Engineering has been making strategic moves to integrate more local talent into its workforce, offering specialized training to ensure that Saudi nationals are well-prepared for roles in both technical and managerial capacities.

This onboarding initiative comes at a time when Saudi Arabia's construction industry is witnessing substantial growth, with the sector poised for significant expansion due to mega-projects such as NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and the Amaala development. These projects have created a demand for skilled professionals, and ALEC's focus on local talent is expected to contribute to the overall enhancement of the country’s workforce capabilities.

ALEC, known for its work on landmark projects, is leveraging the ‘AHLAN’ initiative to ensure it can meet the growing labor demands while also adhering to the country's Saudization policy, which aims to reduce unemployment among Saudi citizens. This policy, part of Vision 2030, encourages companies to prioritize the hiring of Saudi nationals over expatriates.

Through this program, ALEC is not only helping bridge the skills gap in the construction sector but is also playing a crucial role in fostering sustainable employment opportunities for the local population. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in its infrastructure and real estate sectors, programs like ‘AHLAN’ are expected to be instrumental in providing a highly trained workforce ready to take on the challenges of these ambitious projects.

The push for more local talent in construction also reflects broader changes in Saudi Arabia’s labor market, where private companies are increasingly looking to comply with national goals to diversify the workforce. ALEC’s emphasis on technical training, leadership development, and career mentorship ensures that new employees are not only job-ready but are also positioned for long-term growth within the organization.