LABOR MARKET DYNAMICS: SKILL FORMATION AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIAN MIGRANTS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract: This paper examines the labor market dynamics surrounding skill formation and employment opportunities for Indian migrants in Saudi Arabia. With over 2 million Indian workers in Saudi Arabia, this study explores how the demand for labor, particularly in sectors like construction, healthcare, and engineering, shapes skill acquisition among migrant workers. The research highlights the role of bilateral agreements, recruitment practices, and skill training programs in ensuring employability and workforce participation. It investigates the barriers to skill recognition and upward mobility that many migrants face. The study emphasizes the need for stronger cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia to enhance skill transfer, improve worker protections, and promote long-term career growth. By analyzing the labor market reports, government policies, and interviews with Indian migrants, this paper contributes to understanding how skill formation intersects with employment trends in Saudi Arabia, with broader implications for labor migration policies in the Gulf Cooperation Council region. Keyword: labor migration, skill formation, indian migrants, employment opportunities, saudi arabia