In recent years, Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in prioritizing education as a key focus of government policy. The country has recognized the importance of providing its citizens with access to free schooling at all levels, from elementary to secondary education. This commitment to education is reflected in the structure of the school system, which is divided into three main levels: elementary, intermediate, and secondary schools. One distinctive feature of the Saudi Arabian education system is the emphasis on religious education. Religious subjects are integrated into the curriculum at all levels, reflecting the country’s strong Islamic heritage. At the secondary level, students have the opportunity to choose between a religious track or a technical track, allowing them to pursue their interests and talents in a more specialized way. Despite the government’s efforts to promote education for all, there are still disparities in attendance rates between boys and girls in Saudi Arabia. While girls are permitted to attend school, factors such as cultural norms and societal expectations can impact their access to education. As a result, there is a noticeable gap in the literacy rates between males and females, with over 85 percent of males being literate compared to around 70 percent of females. Moving forward, it will be important for Saudi Arabia to continue working towards achieving gender equality in education and ensuring that all citizens have equal opportunities to access quality schooling. By addressing these disparities and promoting inclusive education policies, Saudi Arabia can further enhance its education system and empower its citizens to succeed in an increasingly competitive global economy.

In recent years, higher education in Saudi Arabia has experienced remarkable expansion and development. This growth can be attributed to the establishment of prestigious institutions such as King Saud University, Islamic University, and King Abdulaziz University, which offer a wide range of academic programs catering to diverse fields of study. These institutions place a strong emphasis on disciplines such as sciences, technology, military studies, religion, and medicine, providing students with comprehensive and specialized education. In addition to traditional universities, Saudi Arabia also boasts a thriving network of Islamic studies institutes and religious pedagogy schools, which play a crucial role in preserving the country’s cultural and religious heritage. These institutions can be found in various towns and cities across the country, offering students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Islam and its teachings. One unique aspect of higher education in Saudi Arabia is the segregation of genders, with women typically receiving college education in separate institutions. Despite this, female students have access to a wide range of academic opportunities and resources, allowing them to pursue their academic goals and aspirations. Furthermore, the presence of foreign teachers in technical and medical schools has significantly enriched the academic landscape in Saudi Arabia. These international experts bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom, providing students with a global perspective on their chosen field of study. Moreover, many students in Saudi Arabia opt to study abroad for their university education, seeking to broaden their horizons and gain exposure to different cultures and perspectives. This trend reflects the country’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment that prepares students for success in a rapidly changing global economy. Overall, the growth and development of higher education in Saudi Arabia have paved the way for a new generation of skilled and highly educated professionals who are poised to make significant contributions to their communities and the world at large.

The establishment of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in 2009 near Jeddah marked a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to enhance its position as a scientific hub and compete on an international level in the field of sciences. The state-of-the-art campus is equipped with advanced laboratories, virtual reality facilities, and a powerful supercomputer to facilitate cutting-edge research and innovation. One of the unique aspects of the university is its commitment to providing a relatively liberal environment for its students, both male and female, from around the world. In contrast to the strict societal norms in Saudi Arabia, the university allows women to drive on campus, a privilege that was only extended to public roads in 2018. Additionally, female students have the freedom to choose whether to veil or unveil, a freedom that is not commonly afforded to women in Saudi society. By creating an inclusive and progressive environment, the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology is not only fostering a culture of diversity and tolerance but also empowering its students to excel in their academic pursuits. This forward-thinking approach is not only benefiting the students and faculty at the university but also contributing to Saudi Arabia’s overall goal of becoming a global leader in scientific research and innovation.