Tag Archive for: Poverty in Saudi Arabia

Posts

, ,

5 Diseases Impacting Saudi Arabia

Diseases Impacting Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia’s government has spent much of the last decade trying to promote the nation as a cultural and economic superpower. It has achieved this through massive investment in the tourism sector and by hosting various high-profile sporting events. The Saudi government clearly also prioritizes the population’s health with the latest available figures from the World Health Organization (WHO) suggesting that 12.8% of Saudi Arabia’s public expenditure is dedicated to public health projects. This is significantly higher than both the global average of 10.8% and the average of 8.3% that Saudi Arabia’s eastern Mediterranean neighbors spend. Despite this, some communicable diseases continue to pose a significant risk to public welfare. Here is information about the diseases impacting Saudi Arabia and the efforts to address them.

 1. Dengue Fever

Dengue fever, which the mosquito-borne Orthoflavivirus causes, can cause high fever, muscle pain and large rashes. Rising average temperatures across the Mediterranean have allowed mosquitoes to spread north from East Africa to the Middle East. This has increased Saudi Arabia’s mosquito population and has contributed to a rise in infection rates since the 1990s. These rates spike each year during the holy month of Ramadan, where this year, more than 122 million worshippers visited the city of Mecca in western Saudi Arabia.

Large gatherings of people from outside the country, who have had no previous exposure to the virus and have therefore built no immunity, can allow it to spread rapidly if they do not take the necessary precautions, such as wearing insect-proof clothing and sleeping under mosquito nets.

The Saudi health ministry has invested heavily in raising awareness of behaviors that prevent the spread of mosquitoes among locals. This helped reduce the number of annual reported infections from 4,266 in 2018 to 1,888 the following year.

2. MERS-CoV

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is one of the most recently identified diseases impacting Saudi Arabia. In early 2025, the Saudi health ministry confirmed nine cases, including two deaths.

MERS-CoV produces flu-like symptoms and infects patients through their respiratory system. Experts believe it has passed to Saudi Arabia’s rural population through contact with dromedary camels, which people widely use for transportation across the country’s deserts.

 3. Meningitis

The Saudi health ministry identified 11 cases of meningitis in March 2025, with the WHO identifying a further 17 in April. In response to this, the Saudi health ministry now requires anyone entering the country to receive a quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine at least 10 days prior to their arrival. At the time, estimates indicated that only 54% of international visitors to Saudi Arabia met the vaccination requirements.

The Saudi health ministry highlighted the importance of vaccination to citizens in its public health campaigns. This complements a post-exposure chemoprophylaxis scheme, in which close contacts of patients receive antimicrobial prophylaxis in order to prevent further transmission.

The U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has classified meningococcal meningitis as one of the diseases impacting Saudi Arabia, which poses the greatest risk to British tourists visiting the country. The UKHSA’s current guidance urges tourists travelling to Saudi Arabia to ensure they receiv meningitis vaccinations before they travel.

 4. Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the most widely researched diseases impacting Saudi Arabia. Since 2021, Saudi Arabia’s National Tuberculosis Programme has focused on training hospital staff to prevent TB being transmitted between patients, and investing in specialist TB hospitals.

These efforts to curb the spread of the disease have reduced the infection rate from 23 infections per 100,000 people in 2000, to 8.4 infections per 100,000 people in 2023. This meets the targets set out in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on health and well-being.

Despite this success, TB remains more prevalent in Saudi Arabia than in the neighboring United Arab Emirates, and in much of Europe, including the U.K. 

5. Brucellosis

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease transmitted to humans through contact with animals such as sheep, goats and camels, and through drinking their unpasteurized milk. Many epidemiologists believe it to be the most widespread zoonotic infection in the world.

Infection rates have dropped in Saudi Arabia over the last 30 years, partially due to urbanization reducing the number of people working in agriculture. Despite this, the disease remains endemic in rural communities.

Antibiotics such as Doxycycline can treat brucellosis, with ongoing humanitarian efforts focusing on supplying these medicines to remote areas.

Future Steps

Internal and external efforts to raise public awareness of vital health practices and improve the supply of treatments to rural communities are combating diseases impacting Saudi Arabia. Recent outbreaks, however, prove that substantial government funding of the health ministry and international co-operation remain crucial to further reducing the threat that communicable diseases pose across the country.

– Billy Stack

Billy is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

, ,

Disability and Poverty in Saudi Arabia

Disability and Poverty in Saudi ArabiaWhile disability and poverty are not always directly linked, people with disabilities often face challenges in many areas of life. This article will put disability and poverty in Saudi Arabia under the spotlight, while considering challenges that those with disabilities may face, such as unemployment.

In 2021, 13.6% of the population in Saudi Arabia lived in poverty. Meanwhile, back in 2010, the poverty rate among the population was 18.2%. In this drop, about 483,000 people came out of poverty in Saudi Arabia.

Disability and Poverty in Saudi Arabia

About 7.1% of the Saudi population have some form of disability. However, according to the Saudi General Authority for Statistics, about 10% of the Saudi population reported some form of disability in 2017. In addition, a study showed that about 48.6% of men with disabilities are unemployed compared to 11.5% of men who do not have disabilities. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for women with disabilities is 75.3%, while the unemployment rate for women with disabilities is 32.8%. These statistics highlight the importance of understanding how disability intersects with wider economic and social problems, such as poverty.

People with disabilities face a higher risk of falling into poverty in Saudi Arabia. In most countries around the world, disabled people often rely on the support of their family. In Saudi Arabia, another factor that can cause a person to fall into poverty is a denial of certain opportunities and/or employment opportunities. For example, someone by the name of Mariam Al-Sulami had cerebral palsy, which affected her to the point that it prevented her from attending school everyday. But due to the high motivation and her high GPA and grades, she hoped to get into medicine and dreamed of becoming a doctor. Authorities rejected her medical school application, due to deeming her “medically unfit,” so that is when she decided to take up the path of studying business administration.

Promoting Inclusivity

Saudi Arabia’s ambition toward inclusivity for people with disabilities. The first ever legislation for people with disabilities in KSA passed in 1987. According to an article by Maher S. Al-Jadid, “The LD contains important provisions that assurance persons with disabilities rights equal to those of other people in society.” Additionally, the Tawafuq program is an employment program that ensures that people with disabilities get the employment they need. The Saudi Human Resources Development Fund launched the program in 2014, which is tasked with ensuring that people are able to receive employment opportunities and the support they need. Meanwhile, the Moowaama program aims to expand the number of companies capable of employing people with disabilities. The Mowaama program encourages private companies to help people with disabilities, and to consider it their duty to the country while making their workplaces more inclusive.

The Tawafuq program has registered more than 648,000 people with disabilities with 62,728 people with disabilities being placed into employment, among many other figures that displayed increasing employment for people with disabilities. On the other hand, the Moowaama program has no public number of hires disclosed but one can see its impact by the 150 companies earning Moowaama certifications, reaffirming its efforts into creating a workspace that is disability-inclusive.

Looking Ahead

Although there are still struggles and obstacles in the way of people experiencing disability and poverty in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi government has introduced programs to ensure people with disabilities can access the tools and opportunities to thrive.

– Majida Mohamed

Majida is based in Minneapolis, MN, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

, ,

Revolutionizing Health Care: 3D Printing in Saudi Arabia

3D Printing in Saudi Arabia3D printing is transforming health care practices across Saudi Arabia. As a regional leader in medical innovation, the country is using 3D printing to advance its health care system. Producing medical devices such as prosthetics, dental implants and surgical tools allows for personalized and cost-effective treatments.

How 3D Printing Is Improving Health Care in Saudi Arabia

  • Lowering the cost of medical care. Saudi Arabians have access to free government-funded health care, but this doesn’t extend to expatriates. Expats, individuals living outside their home countries, make up more than 13 million of the nation’s 38 million residents. Nearly half the population relies on private insurance, either paid out of pocket or provided by employers. 3D printing helps lower the cost of essential medical devices such as prosthetics and surgical tools. By producing these items locally, hospitals reduce their reliance on expensive imports, making treatment more affordable for patients.
  • Accessibility. 3D printing in Saudi Arabia is expanding health care access to rural communities. While 85% of the population lives in urban centers like Riyadh, Jeddah and Mecca, the remaining 15% reside in rural areas with limited access to medical services. This unequal access to health care is partly due to a shortage of health care workers. As of 2023, Saudi Arabia needs 15,000 doctors and 20,000 nurses to meet health care demands. Most medical workers are concentrated in urban areas, leaving rural communities underserved. The government program Saudi Vision 2030 seeks to rectify this injustice through its initiatives in 3D printing to localize manufacturing. Instead of having access to supplies needed for specialized care in one hospital in an urban area, 3D printing would make it possible for any medical facility to produce the supplies needed for each patient.The free medical care for citizens also contributes to a lack of quality in the care provided. Public hospitals and clinics are overcrowded and understaffed, resulting in long wait times. 3D printing will help medical staff save time and improve patient care by providing immediate access to the tools they need.
  • Personalizing patient care. Saudi Vision 2030 concentrates on customized prosthetics, surgical tools and medical devices. Traditionally, these items are imported in bulk using a one-size-fits-all approach, which is costly and often results in poor patient fit. Even low-cost 3D printers can produce splints and other basic medical equipment at a fraction of the cost. Widespread access to 3D printing could expand health care access for low-income individuals, including those not protected by minimum wage laws.

Conclusion

3D printing in Saudi Arabia is set to improve public health further as technology advances. Saudi Vision 2030 promises a future of personalized medical care for all, whether low-income, an expat or from a rural area. Sickness doesn’t discriminate and soon, neither will access to affordable health care in Saudi Arabia.

– Sydney Uhl

Sydney is based in Vancouver, WA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

The Push for Food Self-Sufficiency in Saudi Arabia

Food Self-Sufficiency in Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia imports nearly 80% of its food, relying heavily on international suppliers like the United States (U.S.), which exported $1.58 billion worth of agricultural products to the Kingdom in 2022. Harsh desert conditions and limited freshwater resources have made large-scale farming difficult, leading to an overwhelming dependence on imports. As part of a long-term development strategy, food self-sufficiency in Saudi Arabia is now a priority of the government, as well as aiming to strengthen food security and reduce vulnerability to global market shocks.

Food Waste and Loss

Despite maintaining food security, Saudi Arabia continues to struggle with food dependency and waste. According to United Nations (U.N.) data, the country accounts for 50% of global food waste, even though it has a population of about 33 million. A recent survey found that 78% of purchased food is discarded within a week to make room for newly bought groceries.

Cultural norms that encourage abundance often lead people to neglect or discard food, worsening the food waste crisis. To address the issue, the Saudi government launched programs such as Vision 2030, which includes a target to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030. In addition, the Saudi government launched the National Program for Food Loss and Waste Reduction to support this goal. Other proposed solutions include raising food prices, as low prices and bulk deals often encourage consumers to purchase more than they need.

Investing in Sustainable Agriculture

To reduce dependence on imports, the Saudi government continues to invest in initiatives like the Agricultural Development Fund (ADF), which strengthens agricultural sectors such as soybeans and maize. The country has made significant progress in the 21st century. By 2023, Saudi Arabia had reached self-sufficiency in dairy products and eggs and began exporting the surplus. The country also boosted the production of potatoes, poultry, tomatoes, red meat, carrots, fish and onions. To support continued agricultural growth, the government promotes innovations such as vertical farming, greenhouses and hydroponics. These technologies help maximize yield while conserving resources.

International Investments

Beyond domestic initiatives, Saudi Arabia is investing internationally to secure food supplies. The Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) has acquired an 80% stake in Singapore-based Olam Agri for $1.8 billion. This acquisition provides Saudi Arabia with access to global supply chains and strengthens its position in the international agricultural market.

Moving Forward

Saudi Arabia’s population will likely reach 40 million by 2050. To keep pace, the government focuses on improving food consumption efficiency and reducing dependence on imports. Although the country currently contributes a significant portion of global food waste, new regulations and public awareness campaigns could help lower that share over the next five years.

Efforts to expand local food production, improve waste management and promote agricultural innovation remain integral to food self-sufficiency in Saudi Arabia, and its development plans. Continued investment in sustainable practices could help the country strengthen food security and support its growing population in the years ahead.​

– Naseem Rahman

Naseem is based in Staten Island, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

Examining Hunger in Saudi Arabia

Hunger in Saudi ArabiaThe Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a Middle Eastern country of 36.5 million people, bordering the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. It is a desert country, with almost 81% agricultural land, but with 85% of the population urban. Saudi Arabia is an oil-based (since the 1930s), and is considered a high-income country. 

Hunger is Not a Significant Problem

According to the Global Hunger Index, hunger in Saudi Arabia is Low, with the country ranking 37 on the 2024 GHI out of the 127 countries with sufficient data to be included. The indicators comprising the GHI are proportions of the population undernourished (3% in Saudi Arabia), children under 5 stunted (10.8%), children under 5 wasted (4.5%) and children who die before their fifth birthday (0.6%). Saudi Arabia’s scores have been consistently low for decades—all indicators below 10%, except for child stunting, which has been decreasing from just below 20% in 2000.

Nutrition Issues

The 2022 Global Nutrition Report shows a slightly different picture than the GHI. Of the thirteen global nutrition targets monitored, the report shows Saudi Arabia as “off course” for seven targets and no data for three. Similar to the GHI, the country is “on course” for childhood stunting, as well as for the raised blood pressure of women. However, there has been no progress, or worsening, with regard to anemia among women aged 15 to 49. The report also measures progress towards achieving noncommunicable disease targets related to diet, and Saudi Arabia has shown only limited progress there. 

In addition, the country’s obesity prevalence is higher than the regional average: 45.5% of adult Saudi women, as compared to 10.3% for the region and 34.3% for Saudi men, compared to 7.5%. Diabetes is also an issue for adult women and men (19% and 20%, respectively). 

Consistent with the Global Nutrition Report, in November 2024, the Saudi Arabian government agency, General Authority for Statistics, published data indicating that the obesity rate of those aged 15 and above was 23.1%, with 45.1% classified as overweight. Obesity data for children aged 2 to 14 years was 14.6%, with 33.3% overweight. GASTAT also reported that only 10.2% of the population ate the recommended five or more servings of fruits and vegetables. 

Resource Challenge: Water

Water supply is a challenge for Saudi Arabia that affects domestic grain production, resulting in dependence on imports. This means that supply chain disruptions caused by external events, e.g., the war in Ukraine, impact food costs. The country’s strategy includes maintaining strong relationships with the countries supplying grain, as well as effective government policies. This has included incentives for end-users, and policies to ensure smooth trade flows of raw materials. 

Resource Challenge: Rational Consumption

The Citizen Account program was initiated by the government in 2017 to provide cash support to the “most deserving groups of citizens,” with the objective of promoting “rational consumption of resources.” Approximately $229 billion has been distributed since the inception of the program, with over $3 billion in January 2025, as the program was extended through 2025. 

An NGO Response, Local and Beyond

Eta’am is an NGO established in 2011, the first food bank in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region. The organization creates strategic alliances in order to save food from waste. It does this by distributing surplus food resources to those in need, as well as with community initiatives in the field of food support. 

In 2022, Eta’am partnered with SABB (the Saudi British Bank) to establish Riyadh’s first central catering kitchen, delivering ready-made meals prepared from food/catering companies’ surplus dry foods to people with special needs, orphans and poor families. The goal has been to reduce food waste (aimed at a half million tons of dry and canned goods) while increasing food security and reducing hunger in Saudi Arabia. 

An April 2022 Eta’am initiative distributed almost 157,000 food baskets to over 900,000 people in 19 countries centered around the holy month of Ramadan. Countries receiving food included Albania, Tajikistan (9,650 baskets of food to 51,400 people), Kosovo (13 tons of food to 220 families), and Niger (1,000 baskets to 5,000 individuals). 

In 2023, the food company Sadia partnered with Eta’am and several Saudi retailers to donate 2.5% of sales during the month of Ramadan. Retailers promoted the campaign to raise consumer awareness about the charity and to increase their participation. 

Strengthening the Kingdom: Vision 2030

Vision 2030, an “ambitious vision for an ambitious nation,” launched in 2016. A blueprint for economic diversification, it was designed in five-year phases, beginning with structural and public sector, economic and social reforms. The country is currently in the second phase, with a focus on investments in key sectors and “ambitious” projects. Eleven programs comprise the Vision, with one area being Health Sector Transformation. 

The NEOM Food Production Company launched in December 2023 to develop sustainable solutions in food production, distribution and consumption. The “Vibrant” society vision includes attention to sustainable living and to efficient health and social care systems. Strategic objectives include easing access to, and improving the value of, health care services, and strengthening prevention against health threats. 

Final Thoughts

While Hunger in Saudi Arabia is successfully being addressed, challenges remain in the areas of nutrition, food security and sustainable resource management. Issues such as obesity, diabetes and reliance on food imports highlight the importance of both government policies and private sector initiatives in ensuring long-term stability. Programs like Vision 2030 and partnerships with organizations such as those developed by Eta’am demonstrate the country’s commitment to addressing these challenges through innovation and strategic planning. Moving forward, continued investment in health, sustainability, and food security will be crucial in strengthening Saudi Arabia’s resilience and ensuring a healthier future for its population.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr

, ,

Women Entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia: Economic Empowerment

Women Entrepreneurs in Saudi ArabiaWomen play a crucial role in global economic growth. According to research from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), reducing gender disparities in labor markets could boost gross domestic product (GDP) in developing and emerging economies by nearly 8%.

If the gender gap were closed entirely, the impact would be even more significant, potentially raising GDP in these nations by an average of 23%. Empowering women economically fosters greater income equality and diversification, contributing to more inclusive and sustainable growth. Overall, closing the gender gap could add $7 trillion to the global economy.

Gender Disparity and Poverty in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in gender equality, but disparities remain, particularly in economic participation. While the country has seen significant progress in recent years, women still face challenges accessing capital, business networks and certain industries. One in every 10 women globally is living in extreme poverty and economic barriers in Saudi Arabia have historically contributed to gendered income disparities.

Despite these challenges, Saudi Arabia’s recent economic reforms have drastically improved opportunities for women in the workforce and entrepreneurship. “Between 2017 and 2021, the Saudi female labor force participation rate doubled from 17.4% to 35.6%,” surpassing the Vision 2030 target of 30%. These numbers indicate a shift in economic priorities, but further policy support is needed to ensure long-term sustainability and equal access to financial resources.

Legal Reforms

Over the past decade, Saudi Arabia has implemented key legal reforms that have removed barriers for women in business. The World Bank’s Women Business and the Law 2024 report states that Saudi Arabia now scores a perfect 100 in laws affecting women’s decisions to work, pay equity, business ownership and pensions. These reforms include:

  • Lifting restrictions on women starting and running businesses without male guardianship.
  • Granting women the right to drive in 2018, increasing mobility and access to business opportunities.
  • Anti-discrimination laws to ensure equal pay and employment opportunities.
  • Government-led programs supporting women entrepreneurs through funding and mentorship initiatives.

These legal changes have fostered an environment where female-led businesses can thrive, further accelerating Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification goals.

Women Entrepreneurs Leading Economic Transformation

As a result of these reforms, Saudi women are increasingly shaping the country’s startup ecosystem. According to the 2021-2022 Women’s Report for Saudi Arabia by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, 95% of Saudi women consider entrepreneurship a good career choice, 93% see viable opportunities for new businesses and 90% believe it is easy to start a business.

One standout entrepreneur is Mounira Jamjoom, cofounder of Aanaab, an online professional development platform for teachers across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Aanaab collaborates with local and global institutions to offer short courses, qualifications and licensing programs that assist educators and strengthen the education sector.

Another trailblazer, Bayan Linjawi, launched Blossom, Saudi Arabia’s female-focused accelerator, which supports women-led startups in securing funding and scaling their businesses. Today, initiatives like Monsha’at, Saudi Arabia’s Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) authority, promote female entrepreneurship by providing grants, training and business development support.

A Future Driven by Women Entrepreneurs

The rise of women entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia signals a transformative shift in the country’s economic landscape. With legal reforms, social acceptance and government-backed initiatives, the path for women in business is auspicious. However, sustained efforts are required to ensure that all women, including those in rural areas and lower income brackets, have the same opportunities.

As Saudi Arabia progresses toward its Vision 2030 goals, empowering women entrepreneurs will be crucial in driving economic diversification and long-term prosperity. The momentum is strong, but the journey toward full gender equality in business is far from over. By continuing to invest in policies that support female-led enterprises, Saudi Arabia can set a global example of economic inclusion and sustainable growth.

– Linnéa Matlack

Linnéa is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

Changing the Stigma Around HIV/AIDS in Saudi Arabia

HIV/AIDS in Saudi ArabiaStudies conducted in Saudi Arabia have found that a big portion of HIV/AIDS cases are going unreported. The reason for this has been attributed to a stigma surrounding HIV, which causes fewer people to seek treatment. When cases go unreported it’s hard to understand how big the issue is. This has created a need for better education on what HIV is to change the stigma surrounding it.

History of HIV/AIDS in Saudi Arabia

The first case of HIV was described in the 1980s, however, reporting in Saudi Arabia did not start until 2004. Stigma has formed because people are unaware of how long this disease has been around and who it is affecting. Improvement in reporting has allowed the government and private companies to create programs to help people with HIV and in the process remove any stigma. Despite people being considerably more educated, there is still a large portion of people who feel negatively towards individuals with HIV.

Changing the Stigma

The Saudi government funded a blood screening program as early as 1984. This was a new technique at the time that helped track and diagnose the disease as it spread. In 1994, it founded the Saudi National Aids Program. Since then the government has also made treatment free for individuals diagnosed with HIV. Efforts have been made to improve public knowledge about the disease and how to get tested.

Founded as a countermeasure to the HIV epidemic, the purpose of the Saudi National Aids program is to provide education and treatment to the public. The Program has created amendments to the treatment guidelines for HIV that have allowed for more people to access care. The program claims to be responsible for improving treatment so much so that in 2018 about 93% of reported cases were currently receiving treatment.

Public awareness campaigns create awareness that the government cannot. Progress begins when citizens can support each other through difficult times. Evidence of this was found in a survey that showed that the majority of people felt that they would still be friends with someone if they had HIV/AIDS. Improvement in the resources available for communities is another way awareness is being built. The Saudi Government has released informational brochures that allow community members to educate themselves.

Making Improvements

Since the start of the 2000s, the Saudi people have worked hard to create awareness around HIV/AIDS. In that time, studies have shown improvements in public knowledge and an improvement in attitude towards the disease. The reason public awareness is so important is that it creates a safe environment for people to talk about their health issues. The improved stigma around HIV/AIDS in Saudi Arabia has led to an increase in diagnoses among men. The Saudi Arabian people have shown that they want to improve the quality of life for people with HIV/AIDS, and as public awareness rises so will the amount of people helped.

– Kaleb Monteith

Kaleb is based in Greeley, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

Poverty in Saudi Arabia

Poverty in Saudi Arabia Between 2010 and 2021, the poverty rate in Saudi Arabia decreased from 18.2% to 13.6%, lifting 483,000 Saudis out of poverty. However, significant challenges remain, including systemic unemployment and a lack of affordable housing. With a nominal GDP of $1.07 trillion, the country boasts the largest economy in the Middle East. Despite this economic strength, the kingdom also has the highest poverty rate among Gulf states, with one in seven Saudi nationals living in poverty.

Poverty Hidden from View

Saudi Arabia does not officially disclose statistics on poverty or define a poverty threshold. The kingdom portrays itself as a highly developed and civilized nation, with gleaming cities like Riyadh and luxury resorts along the Red Sea, boosting its tourism industry. Yet, poor neighborhoods and slums exist, though their locations often make them invisible to visitors. Urban layouts deliberately segregate lower-class neighborhoods from highways and central city areas, pushing low-income citizens to society’s fringes. Until 2002, Saudi officials denied the existence of poverty altogether and state-run media ignored the issue until Crown Prince Abdullah bin Abdulaziz visited a Riyadh slum, bringing the problem to light.

Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia derives most of its wealth from the oil sector. Vision 2030 is a plan to reduce the country’s reliance on oil by diversifying industries, expanding the private sector and scaling down the public sector. A cornerstone of this initiative is the partial privatization of Aramco, the state-owned oil giant. However, the plan also includes privatizing public services, such as hospitals and schools. A significant challenge for Saudi citizens under Vision 2030 is the proposed reduction in state employment.

Currently, two-thirds of Saudis work in government jobs, but the plan aims to lower this to 20% of the population. Welfare spending, which includes free education and health care, has also seen cuts. The government funds much of its welfare spending through Zakat, an Islamic principle requiring individuals to donate 2.5% of their wealth to charity. The government collects and distributes these funds. Under Vision 2030, the government is reducing subsidies for essential services like fuel, electricity and water. These cuts disproportionately affect poorer citizens, creating further challenges for those already struggling financially.

Women and Migrant Workers: The Most Vulnerable

Under Islamic law, men are traditionally responsible for financially supporting women and children. As a result, women without a husband or living male relative often face significant socio-economic challenges. Female-headed households represent a large proportion of the poorest families in Saudi Arabia. Although women are permitted to work independently, many employers require written consent from a male guardian, limiting women’s participation in the labor force. This guardianship system creates barriers to employment, increasing women’s vulnerability to poverty and rising living costs. Migrant workers, particularly women, are among the most vulnerable groups in Saudi society. They often endure low wages, financial hardships and exploitative practices such as wage withholding and the confiscation of passports, exacerbating their economic challenges.

Progress and Solutions

According to the United Nations (U.N.), poverty in Saudi Arabia has become less of a taboo topic since the crown prince visited a Riyadh slum in 2002. Following this pivotal moment, the country implemented the National Poverty Reduction Strategy in 2005 and the Supplementary Support Programme in 2006, both aimed at assisting those in need. Policy reforms remain essential to effectively combat poverty. Key strategies include promoting a fair tax system, enhancing the efficiency of social protection transfer programs and revising land distribution and public procurement policies. Additionally, prioritizing investments in skill development for citizens is critical. These measures can help expand access to socioeconomic opportunities, fostering greater inclusion and reducing poverty across the nation.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to tackle poverty in Saudi Arabia are advancing, however, systemic challenges such as unemployment, limited affordable housing and economic disparities persist. Targeted reforms, including improved social protection systems and investments in education and skill development, remain critical to achieving greater socioeconomic inclusion. As the kingdom moves forward with Vision 2030, balancing economic diversification with equitable welfare measures could be essential to reducing poverty further.

– Salome von Stolzmann

Salome is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

5 Charities Operating in Saudi Arabia

5 Charities Operating in Saudi ArabiaLocated 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