International Non-Profit Forum In Riyadh Welcomes Over 2,000 Experts And Specialists

The International Non-Profit Forum commenced in Riyadh, spearheaded by Ahmed Al-Rajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development. The event, held from December 3 to 5, drew over 2,000 participants, including leaders and experts from around the world. The forum featured 100 speakers representing 20 countries, highlighting its global significance.

Al-Rajhi noted the non-profit sector's remarkable growth in Saudi Arabia. Since 2017, the number of organizations has surged from 1,700 to over 7,000 by 2025. This expansion marks a 370% increase, showcasing the sector's rapid development under Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Vision 2030 has significantly transformed the non-profit sector. The establishment of the National Center for Non-Profit Sector has improved governance and transparency. It also enhanced capacity-building and organizational effectiveness across the sector.

Recent achievements include a rise in specialized organizations supporting developmental priorities to over 92%. Additionally, the sector's contribution to the gross domestic product reached 1.2%, with a target of five percent by 2030.

Volunteerism has seen substantial growth. By 2025, there were 1.5 million volunteers and more than 500,000 annual volunteer opportunities. Beneficiary satisfaction with services provided by the sector exceeded an impressive 89%.

Al-Rajhi expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia's leadership for its unwavering support of the non-profit sector. He emphasized that this forum will enhance the sector's local and international impact while fostering strategic partnerships for sustainable development.

The non-profit sector in Saudi Arabia boasts a long history dating back nearly a century. The first official regulation of donations was established in 1928 during King Abdulaziz's reign. This historical foundation underscores the sector's enduring presence in the Kingdom.

With inputs from SPA