By: Logistics middle east

In an exclusive collaboration, Logistics Middle East and the Saudi Logistics Academy (SLA) have launched a landmark whitepaper titled “The Role of Human Capability Development in Saudi Arabia’s Logistics Sector.”

This first-of-its-kind report explores the critical link between workforce readiness and the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global logistics powerhouse under Vision 2030.

A workforce at the centre of transformation

Saudi Arabia’s logistics sector is projected to contribute more than $135 billion to the national economy by 2030.

As the Kingdom rapidly scales infrastructure and trade corridors, the whitepaper highlights a parallel, and equally vital, priority: building a skilled, agile workforce ready to meet the demands of digitalisation, sustainability, and global competition.

The report identifies human capability development (HCD) as a foundational pillar in transforming the Kingdom’s economic landscape.

From upskilling in automation and AI to fostering leadership and strategic thinking, the findings urge stakeholders to put people at the heart of logistics growth.

What the data reveals

Drawing on new sector-wide research conducted by Logistics Middle East, the whitepaper reveals that 83% of logistics companies in Saudi Arabia expanded their workforce in 2023.

Yet, 42% admit that many employees still lack critical competencies, especially in digital tools, supply chain strategy, and sustainability.

High workloads and lack of time were cited by 57% of respondents as the main barriers to training.

However, the report finds cause for optimism: 87% of companies are investing in training, while many are implementing job mobility and mentorship programmes to bridge the skills gap internally.

Leadership perspectives and insights

The whitepaper features insights from top industry leaders, including Rayan Albakri, Deputy Minister for Logistic Services; Abdulla Mohammed Al Zamil, Chairman of Saudi Global Ports; and Craig Roberts, CEO of ASMO.

With Vision 2030 accelerating and Saudi Arabia climbing 17 places in the Logistics Performance Index, this whitepaper provides timely, data-driven recommendations to guide public and private stakeholders alike.

Access the full whitepaper here and join the conversation on shaping the Kingdom’s logistics workforce of the future.