Through advance safety systems and workforce development, Aramco is creating an inclusive, skilled, and future-ready organisation that supports both its employees and the wider communities it serves

Aramco's global leadership rests not only on vast energy assets and cutting-edge technologies but on the strength of its people.

With more than 75,000 employees and thousands of contractors from nearly 100 nationalities, the company has placed workforce development and inclusion at the heart of its strategy.

By combining large-scale training programmes, diversity initiatives, and well-being support, Aramco is building a future-ready workforce equipped to drive long-term success.

A DIVERSE & INCLUSIVE WORKFORCE

Aramco continues to expand opportunities for women and people with disabilities (PwD), advancing diversity as a source of innovation.

Female participation has grown significantly, with women now representing 24 per cent of new recruits and increasingly moving into STEM roles and leadership positions.

The number of female leaders rose from 233 in 2023 to 308 in 2024, supported by targeted training and partnerships with institutions such as Harvard, INSEAD, and IMD.

Operational safety remains a priority

For PwD employees, inclusion is reinforced through accessible facilities, workplace adjustments, and assistive technologies.

Awareness campaigns and training programmes have fostered a culture of respect and inclusion, while mentorship opportunities help PwD employees pursue leadership tracks.

Contractors, too, are part of this effort, with tailored awareness and inclusion programmes rolled out across worksites.

Aramco also champions youth empowerment in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. In 2024, it received more than 729,000 applications for vocational and non-employee training programmes.

Over 3,200 students joined internship schemes, with women representing 47 per cent of participants. Such initiatives are designed to equip young Saudis with critical skills for tomorrow’s economy while ensuring the energy sector continues to attract top talent.

SKILLS, LEARNING & WELL-BEING

Employee learning is delivered at a scale unmatched by many global peers. In 2024 alone, Aramco delivered 13.8 million hours of training, averaging 140 hours per employee.

These ranged from executive education with top business schools to immersive technical courses delivered through VR and AR.

The myLearning platform, powered by AI, allows employees to personalise training pathways, reinforcing a culture of continuous development.

Training goes beyond technical upskilling. Employees benefit from coaching in leadership, financial literacy, and well-being, while contractors have access to the globally benchmarked Well-Being Programme, supported by a 24/7 multilingual call centre and video counselling.

Aramco’s Work-Life Support Programme, meanwhile, provides access to counselling, mindfulness coaching, childcare, and fitness facilities, helping employees balance professional growth with personal well-being.

Recognition of these efforts has been consistent. In both 2024 and 2025, Aramco was certified as a Top Employer in Saudi Arabia by the Top Employers Institute.

It was also named among Forbes’ World’s Best Employers and listed by TIME as one of the "100 Most Influential Companies", reflecting its dual role as a global energy leader and an employer of choice.

While operational safety remains a priority, Aramco’s people strategy is increasingly the story.

By empowering employees, opening doors for women and PwD, and cultivating the next generation of Saudi talent, the company is shaping a workforce that will not only sustain but accelerate its growth in the decades to come.

By OGN Bureau