Located in southwest Asia, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia shares borders with Jordan to the west and Yemen to the north. As the largest Arab country in the Middle East, it is home to Mecca and Medina, the two holiest Islamic cities. Millions of Muslims worldwide travel there annually for the six-day pilgrimage to the Kaaba. Over the years, Saudi Arabia has established numerous charities to aid the less fortunate and is the largest donor in the Gulf region to the Global Fund. It ranks as the 19th largest donor globally, contributing $142.5 million and recently pledged $39 million to the Global Fund, marking a 30% increase from its previous funding. Here are 5 charities operating in Saudi Arabia.

EKHAA Charitable Foundation for Orphan Care

Founded in March 2003, EKHAA provides services to more than 2,055 orphans, including those with special needs, across branches in the country. These services include employment, housing assistance, along with social and cultural program activities. EKHAA’s mission focuses on building independence for orphans through programs, partnerships and a supportive environment that helps them achieve self-sufficiency. Its objectives include ensuring social and financial stability while improving psychological and social well-being.

Saudi Food Bank Association (ETAAM)

Founded in 2011, the Saudi Food Bank Association collaborates with various organizations and businesses to collect surplus food from grocery stores and restaurants, distributing it to those in need. This charity also delivers meals to individuals with special social conditions and low-income households. To ensure effective food distribution, the organization employs modern technology, strategic marketing and skilled staff. With a vision to become a leader in the Kingdom and the Arab world in food provision, the Saudi Food Bank Association aims to promote social solidarity by providing food, preventing waste and supporting food-related research initiatives.

Mawaddah Women’s Charity Association

This charity association was founded to help stabilize and secure families through divorce legislation in Saudi Arabia. The organizations take steps to find long-term solutions to reduce divorce rates and face its negative impacts on families. Founded in 2008, Mawaddah is committed to supporting Saudi families, with a special focus on women and children. It strives to strengthen family relationships and lower divorce rates. Mawaddah also offers courses to assist women who seek to join the workforce. This charity has milestones to work toward, including managing the impact of divorce. According to its website, ‘For women faced with divorce or its aftermath, the assistance on offer from Mawaddah can range from simple financial help to job-qualification programs.’

Alnahda Society

Alnahda Society is a nonprofit women’s organization that focuses on empowering Saudi women socially and economically through a range of programs, like providing educational services and employment opportunities for women. The society began with volunteering efforts, quickly evolving into a cultural institution that is committed to enhancing women’s role in community services. Since 2008, this nonprofit has provided 97,500 services and has operated 37 centers in the capital city of Riyadh.

EHSAN National Platform for Charitable Work

Launched in 2021, the EHSAN digital platform serves as a national donation hub, encouraging charitable activities and community involvement. It uses advanced technology to make these donations reach those in need. The donations have benefitted more than 48 million people. The platform has set a Genius World record for the highest daily donations in 24 hours globally. In March of 2023, more than 558,000 donors contributed to provide support for more than 476,000 people.

Looking Ahead

Saudi Arabia’s diverse charitable efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and enhancing social welfare. Through the various charities operating in Saudi Arabia address issues such as food insecurity, women’s empowerment, family stability and digital philanthropy. The focus on community development and effective aid distribution reveals a growing drive to uplift and empower different segments of society. These programs underline Saudi Arabia’s dedication to advancing social progress and addressing the needs of its people.

– Nouf Hunaiti

Nouf is based in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr