Filipino workers doubled in KSA during 2023 and more planning to move

Filipino workers doubled in KSA during 2023 and more planning to move. Data from the Department of Migrant Workers revealed that in 2023, the number of Filipinos seeking employment in Saudi Arabia more than doubled, surpassing all other Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Out of the nearly 1.8 million overseas Filipino workers in GCC states, over half chose to live and work in Saudi Arabia, their longstanding preferred destination for overseas employment. Between January and October, more than 380,000 Filipino nationals embarked on employment in the Kingdom, a notable increase from the 2022 figure of about 143,850. The United Arab Emirates secured the second spot, attracting over 250,600 Filipino workers in 2023, compared to nearly 166,200 in the previous year.

Filipino workers doubled in KSA during 2023 and more planning to move

Hong Kong and Singapore followed as popular destinations for Philippine expats. The total deployment of Filipinos overseas in 2023 marked a significant rise from 2022, reflecting a recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hans Leo Cacdac, Officer-in-Charge of the DMW, anticipates further job opportunities in 2024, emphasizing the global shift toward a post-pandemic era with economies and trade reopening.

Saudi Arabia’s appeal stems not only from being a well-established labor market for Filipinos but also from robust bilateral relations and streamlined immigration procedures. Arnold Mamaclay, President of Philippine Employment Agencies and Associates for Corporate Employers in the Middle East, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s efficiency in visa processing, with the Saudi Embassy releasing visas in just one day. Despite current policies favoring Saudi nationals, there remain numerous job openings for non-Saudis, particularly in the construction and hospitality sectors, thanks to ongoing mega projects.

The demand for household assistants has also increased, attributed by Lito Soriano, former head of the Philippine Association of Service Exporters, to the expanding Saudi economy and the growing involvement of Saudi women in professional activities. As the middle class expands and engages in economic development, the need for household assistance rises, aligning with the encouragement of women’s participation in the workforce by the Saudi crown prince. (Source: Arab News)