As Saudi Arabia continues its rapid economic and social transformation, the workplace is evolving just as fast. The arrival of Generation Z into the labor market is accelerating this change, challenging long-standing assumptions about loyalty, leadership, and motivation at work.
Findings from the Multi-Generational Engagement 2026 study conducted by Best Places to Work® in Saudi Arabia reveal a clear message: employee engagement can no longer be assumed—it must be earned.
Loyalty is no longer unconditional
In Saudi Arabia, nearly 45% of Gen Z employees say they would leave a job that does not inspire or challenge them. Job security alone is no longer enough to retain young talent. For this generation, loyalty is a result of meaningful work, growth opportunities, and a positive workplace culture.
They would rather face uncertainty than remain disengaged.
Success without sacrificing personal life
“Gen Z does not want to choose between career success and quality of life.”
Work-life balance has become a non-negotiable expectation. Flexibility, respect for personal time, and outcome-based performance are increasingly valued over long working hours and physical presence. This shift reflects a broader redefinition of productivity across the Saudi workforce.
Authority must be earned
For Gen Z, authority is no longer automatic. Respect is built through:
- Competence,
- Fairness,
- Transparency, and
- Consistency.
Saying “no” to a manager is not seen as disrespect, but as a desire for clarity, dialogue, and purpose. Leadership credibility now matters more than hierarchy.
Purpose over pay
More than 68% of Gen Z employees in Saudi Arabia say they would choose meaningful work over a higher salary. They are looking beyond compensation, seeking roles that align with their values and contribute to something larger than themselves.
They are not just looking for jobs—they are looking for purpose.
Transparency as a sign of respect
Asking about salary early in the recruitment process or requesting clear role expectations is not considered impolite. For Gen Z, transparency reflects respect for time and honesty in the employer–employee relationship.
Clear communication is no longer optional—it is expected.
A multi-generational reality
While Generation Z is driving this transformation, engagement levels remain strong across all age groups in Saudi Arabia:
- 67% among employees aged 22–30,
- 72% among those aged 31–45,
- 74% among employees aged 46 and above.
These figures demonstrate that the expectations reshaping the workplace are increasingly shared across generations.
A strategic priority for Saudi organizations
For organizations operating in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the context of Vision 2030, engagement has become a strategic lever. Companies that invest in transparent leadership, meaningful work, and employee well-being are better positioned to attract, retain, and engage top talent in a competitive labor market.
In Summary
The Multi-Generational Engagement 2026 – Saudi Arabia study by Best Places to Work® confirms that Generation Z is not rejecting work—it is redefining it. Loyalty, purpose, transparency, and balanced leadership are now core drivers of engagement across all generations.
For Saudi organizations, building high-performing workplaces means creating environments where people feel respected, informed, and connected to a meaningful mission. Through its research, certification, and advisory programs, Best Places to Work® supports employers in measuring, understanding, and enhancing employee engagement to build sustainable, future-ready organizations.
