Riyadh's Upcoming Global Labor Market Conference
Riyadh is gearing up to host the third edition of the Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC). Scheduled for late January 2026, this significant gathering will take place at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center. The event is organized under the distinguished patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
Theme and Objectives
This year, the conference will revolve around the theme "Future in Progress." Attendees will include policymakers, business leaders, labor market experts, and representatives from international institutions. The primary aim is to foster collaboration and dialogue to devise forward-thinking solutions to critical workforce and labor issues.
Statement from the Minister
The Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, His Excellency Eng. Ahmad bin Sulaiman AlRajhi, emphasized the importance of this conference, stating, "We are grateful for the King's honorable patronage of GLMC. It serves as a cornerstone of the global labor landscape and a vital platform for dialogue about the future of work. This event underscores our commitment to international collaboration and innovative solutions that empower labor markets and workers worldwide."
Conference Format and Expected Participants
The GLMC 2026 will bring together more than 45 international ministers, who will participate in a dedicated Ministerial Roundtable. This roundtable aims to develop effective policy solutions for labor challenges on a global scale. The conference program will explore six thematic pillars such as the effects of trade shifts and AI on the workforce, emerging skills needs, and labor market alignment with human progress.
Innovative Approaches at the Conference
This year's edition will introduce several exciting and innovative formats. These include policy 'hackathons' that will facilitate the creation of novel policy solutions. Additionally, there will be sessions where speakers present their most pressing workforce challenges and boldest policy experiments. Academics will also have the chance to choose urgent topics for discussion and debate.
A Growing International Audience
With expectations of over 200 speakers and more than 7,000 attendees, the GLMC will feature over 50 engagements throughout its program. This level of participation highlights the conference's importance in the global labor market dialogue.
Commitment to Labor Innovation Year-Round
Established in 2023, the GLMC has progressed into a global think tank focused on supporting research, innovation, and partnerships aimed at enhancing labor markets worldwide. Initiatives like the Global Labor Market Academy, created through collaboration with the World Bank and Takamol Holding, exemplify GLMC's role as a catalyst for meaningful action. These initiatives strive to cultivate practical solutions that empower governments, businesses, and workers to establish more sustainable labor systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of GLMC 2026?
The main theme is "Future in Progress," emphasizing collaboration and innovative solutions for labor challenges.
Where will the GLMC 2026 be held?
The conference will be hosted at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh.
Who will attend the conference?
Attendees include policymakers, business leaders, labor market experts, and over 45 international ministers.
What innovative formats will the conference include?
This year will feature policy 'hackathons' and sessions where speakers address workforce challenges and policy experiments.
When did the Global Labor Market Conference start?
The GLMC was launched in 2023 and has grown into a year-round global think tank for labor market advancement.
