Saudi Arabia Launches “Athar” Platform to Support Environmental Freelance Work

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has launched a new digital initiative called the “Athar” platform to support and regulate environmental freelance work across the Kingdom as part of its broader sustainability and employment agenda. The platform aims to provide a formal framework where environmental specialists, consultants and freelancers can find opportunities, connect with organisations, and contribute to sustainable development objectives aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. The Athar platform is designed to bridge the gap between environmental expertise and project demand, making it easier for individuals with skills in areas such as conservation, environmental assessment, resource management and eco-consulting to offer their services in a structured marketplace. By providing a centralised digital space for professionals and organisations to interact, Saudi authorities hope to bolster local capacity in environmental projects and boost employment opportunities in green sectors. Officials emphasise that the platform will not only create new, flexible work opportunities for specialists but also support the country’s environmental commitments by ensuring that sustainability initiatives have access to qualified talent. This approach reflects a growing trend in the Middle East toward leveraging digital platforms to match expertise with sustainability needs, whether for environmental monitoring, natural resource management, or climate adaptation projects. The launch of Athar aligns with several national goals, including enhancing environmental governance, expanding green jobs and integrating sustainability considerations into economic transformation. With environmental challenges becoming more complex, the platform aims to help Saudi Arabia build a skilled ecosystem of freelance professionals who can contribute to climate, biodiversity and environmental resilience efforts long term.