For Medium- And 'specialized' Jobs, It Will Take 6-7 Years To Replace Expats

In addressing the employment landscape within the oil sector, Dr. Saad Al-Barrak, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Oil, underscores the importance of following a unified mechanism approved by the Petroleum Corporation. Emphasizing alignment with the company’s annual budget, Al-Barrak notes that job advertisements reflect diverse needs for qualifications and scientific specializations.

In response to a parliamentary inquiry from Representative Fahd Falah bin Jamea about the Kuwaitization initiative's outcomes, Al-Barrak details the strategy of the Kuwait Oil Company. Positions are categorized as "easy to replace," "medium," and "difficult." While workers in the "easy to replace" category, mainly non-Kuwaiti, have had their services terminated, roles in the "medium" and "difficult" categories require specialized and technical expertise not readily available locally.

Acknowledging the shortage of qualified Kuwaiti workers for these roles, Al-Barrak outlines a phased replacement plan. Positions in the "medium" category are set to transition within 4 to 6 years, while those in the "difficult-to-replace" category will undergo transition within 7 years. This approach ensures a gradual shift until suitable Kuwaiti alternatives become available.

Al-Barrak highlights a significant increase in Kuwaitization over the past five years, reaching 93.03 percent in the fiscal year 2023/2024, up from 89.25 percent in 2019/2020. The Minister emphasizes the company’s commitment to training Kuwaiti workers, providing them with experience and intensive practical courses for roles of rare and challenging technical nature. The termination of non-Kuwaiti workers in these categories is contingent upon the availability of suitable and qualified alternatives, strategically timed to avoid disruptions to crucial projects.

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