Saudi Arabia's long-running Saudization programme continued to extend its scope in 2009 with the establishment of new national training institutes.

An in-depth report into the country's economic performance last year reflected on the increased investment in education and workforce training, with investment for 2009 standing at SR122 billion (£21 billion), up from SR105 billion in 2008.

In order to ensure that Saudi workers are endowed with the requisite skills to succeed in advanced sectors such as the oil and gas industry, national authorities inaugurated a new flagship university in 2009, in addition to approving plans for two additional higher-level institutes.

The country has also developed strong training and development ties with international educational institutions and global oil and gas companies, ensuring that the programme continues to progress in the achievement of its core aim, increasing both the number of national participants in the Saudi workforce and the depth of skills they possess.

Oil and Gas Directory: Training and Development