Saudi nonprofit sector records 173% growth surge since 2018

The Saudi minister of human resources and social development has announced a remarkable 173 percent increase in nonprofit organizations since 2018.

Ahmad Al-Rajhi also noted a surge in beneficiary satisfaction, which has reached 86 percent — surpassing the target for 2025. The number of specialized nonprofit organizations has similarly risen since 2018, with over 800,000 volunteers and government contracts worth SR6 billion ($1.6 billion).

During the second annual forum for nonprofit organizations, “Partnerships in the Non-Profit Sector,” organized by the Council of Foundations in Riyadh on Sunday, Al-Rajhi emphasized the pivotal role of the council and its collaboration with the National Center for the Non-Profit Sector.

Al-Rajhi, who is chairman of the center’s board, praised the leadership’s support for the nonprofit sector and commended the council’s efforts and achievements which contributed to the realization of Saudi Vision 2030 goals.

The Saudi minister witnessed the signing of memorandums of understanding between the Council of Foundations and various government and nonprofit entities. These included agreements with the National Center for Non-Profit Sector, Elm, Prince Mutaib bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud Charitable Foundation, and Leaders Development Co.

He launched several council initiatives, including the Partnerships platform designed to foster nonprofit sector collaborations, and the Intilaqa initiative, which promotes women’s involvement in developmental work within the nonprofit sector and encourages women entrepreneurs to support nonprofit organizations.

Al-Rajhi also inaugurated the second Saudi-British Fellowship Program, led by the Leaders Development Co. in collaboration with the University of Manchester, which aims to empower leaders. In addition, he witnessed the launch of studies and materials aimed at enhancing knowledge and administrative awareness within the nonprofit sector.

Abdulrahman Al-Rajhi, chairman of the Council of Foundations, said the forum sought to boost integration, coordination and knowledge exchange among nonprofit organizations. This edition was focused on increasing awareness about the vital role of partnerships in the nonprofit sector, fostering collaborations with other sectors, and sharing valuable local and global partnership experiences.