The Causes and Effects of Employee Turnover Among Saudi and Non-Saudi Workers in Saudi Arabia’s Private and Public Sectors: An Analysis Based on GOSI Data

Abstract

This study investigates the causes and impacts of employee turnover of Saudi and non-Saudi employees registered with the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) on public and private sectors in Saudi Arabia. In addition, this study inspects the causes and impacts of employee turnover rate focusing on factors such as job security, career development, and compensation, this research aims to provide insights for reducing turnover rates and improving workforce stability. This study was conducted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, using data from the General Organization for Social Insurance, the Open Data Platform, and the General Authority for Statistics. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative analysis of GOSI data covering demographic turnover patterns with qualitative survey responses to gain deeper insights into the motivations behind employee decisions to stay or leave. Findings reveal a higher turnover rate in the private sector, driven by job insecurity, contract limitations, and limited career growth. Expatriate employees, particularly in the private sector, exhibit higher turnover than Saudi nationals. In the public sector, job security and benefits contribute to lower turnover rates. Key predictors of turnover include job security, compensation, career development, and work-life balance. To mitigate turnover, it is recommended that private sector organizations enhance job security through long-term contracts, offer competitive compensation packages, provide structured career paths, and promote flexible work arrangements. These strategies could effectively improve employee retention and support the Kingdom’s workforce stability goals.