On the latest episode of The RiyalDeal (watch, runtime: 41:07), the spotlight was on the Kingdom’s labor strategy. Tom Burges Watson hosted Chief Investment Officer of Haytham & Company Ali Raza, who welcomed the newly announced skill-based work permit system, saying it's a needed shift to better align foreign talent with local demands while still prioritizing Saudization through mentorship and long-term partnerships.

Saudi CEO of Cooper Fitch Trefor Murphy also offered a broader regional hiring outlook, saying that 2Q 2025 hiring in Saudi grew 2% y-o-y, led by finance, logistics, and AI. Murphy noted a growing trend of companies hiring international advisors instead of C-level execs, as local professionals rise to fill senior roles.

ALSO- The Mo Show (watch, runtime: 46:04) saw Mohammed Islam chat with Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, about Michelin’s official launch in Saudi Arabia. Anonymous inspectors are already on the ground, initially focusing on hubs like Riyadh and Jeddah with plans to expand across the Kingdom, Poullennec said.

A word for the chefs: Poullennec encouraged Saudi chefs to focus on creating authentic experiences for their guests rather than cooking for the guide, assuring them that true talent will be recognized.

ALSO WORTH WATCHING-

  • The First Class’s host Fatima Daoui sat with United Electronics Company’s (eXtra) CEO Mohamed Galal (watch, runtime 48:58), as they talked in depth about the development journey of eXtra from early stages and challenges to a company with a market value surpassing SAR 7 bn.
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