Saudi Arabia introduces major education reforms under new school law

Saudi Arabia has approved the executive regulations for its new General Education Law, introducing wide ranging reforms that will reshape the country’s education system from nursery through Grade 12. The new legislation creates a comprehensive legal framework for public and private education and is designed to support the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by improving educational quality, expanding opportunities and strengthening oversight across the sector.

One of the most notable changes allows private schools to decide whether boys and girls can study together, while public schools will continue to separate male and female students after the early childhood stage. The move marks a significant shift in education policy for the Kingdom and gives private institutions greater flexibility in organizing their academic programmes.

The law also establishes a new General Education Affairs Council that will oversee key education policies. The council will be chaired by the Minister of Education and include representatives from several government ministries, the Education and Training Evaluation Commission and the private sector. Officials say the body will help coordinate education reforms and ensure that policies are aligned with national development goals.

Compulsory education will continue for children between the ages of six and 15. The Ministry of Education will have the authority to take legal action against parents or guardians who prevent children from attending school or who contribute to students leaving education before completing the compulsory stage. Officials say the measure is intended to improve school attendance and reduce dropout rates.

Arabic will remain the main language of instruction throughout the general education system. However, schools will be allowed to teach in another language when appropriate, giving educational institutions greater flexibility while preserving the country’s cultural and linguistic identity.

The legislation also confirms that classroom teaching will remain the primary method of education across all grade levels. At the same time, the Ministry of Education plans to expand digital learning by developing programmes that include live online classes, self paced learning and other flexible educational options. Regulations will also be introduced for lifelong learning certificates to encourage continuous education beyond traditional schooling.

Students will have access to more diverse educational pathways under the new framework. The ministry will be able to introduce specialized academic and vocational tracks designed to better prepare students for future careers and meet the changing demands of the labor market.

The law places greater emphasis on supporting students with disabilities by requiring schools to provide suitable educational services, assistive technology and assessment methods that match individual learning needs. It also strengthens programmes for gifted students through specialized schools, enrichment centers, improved identification systems, teacher training and partnerships with universities and research institutions.

Private schools will face stricter quality standards under the reforms. Educational institutions must obtain accreditation from the Education and Training Evaluation Commission or another internationally recognized accreditation body approved by Saudi authorities. The Ministry of Education will oversee licensing procedures, ownership transfers, school operations and the introduction of international curricula while ensuring that subjects related to national identity remain part of every approved curriculum.

The new rules also introduce a clearer process for education licences. Applications must receive a written decision within 30 days, and institutions whose applications are rejected will have the right to appeal. The government says these measures are intended to improve transparency and encourage investment in the education sector.

Private and nonprofit education providers will also benefit from a more defined regulatory framework. Under certain conditions, the ministry may provide financial assistance, staffing support or other resources to eligible institutions as part of efforts to expand educational services under Vision 2030.

Teachers will have broader professional responsibilities under the new law. They will be expected to follow approved curricula, meet the learning needs of individual students, encourage creativity and innovation, identify gifted learners, uphold national values and participate in continuous professional development programmes.

The legislation also introduces stricter disciplinary procedures for teachers, administrators and private schools that violate regulations. Authorities will have the power to temporarily remove staff from duty while investigations are carried out. Serious violations could result in dismissal and permanent disqualification from working in the education sector. Private schools that fail to comply with the law may receive warnings, face financial penalties, lose the right to admit new students or have their operating licences revoked. If a licence is cancelled, the school must ensure that enrolled students are able to complete the academic year without disruption at the owner’s expense.