Saudi Arabia has approved the executive and regulatory provisions of its new General Education Law, introducing major reforms to the Kingdom’s K-12 education system. The new law creates a comprehensive legal framework for public education from nursery to Grade 12 and supports the goals of Vision 2030.
According to the new legislation, the reforms aim to improve education quality, strengthen governance, and prepare students with skills that match future workforce needs.
One of the most important changes is the creation of the General Education Affairs Council. The council will be led by the Minister of Education and include representatives from government ministries, the Education and Training Evaluation Commission, and the private sector.
The council will help oversee education policies and support the implementation of the new law across the country.
The law also confirms that compulsory education in Saudi Arabia will continue for children between the ages of six and 15. The Ministry of Education will have the authority to take legal action against anyone who prevents children from attending school or causes them to leave during the compulsory education period.
Arabic will remain the main language of instruction in general education schools. However, schools will be allowed to teach in an additional language where appropriate.
The legislation also keeps the existing policy of separating boys’ and girls’ schools after the early childhood stage in public education. This rule does not apply to private schools.
The new framework confirms that classroom-based learning will remain the standard method of education. At the same time, the Ministry of Education will expand digital learning opportunities. These will include live online classes, recorded lessons, and self-paced learning programs.
The ministry will also introduce regulations for lifelong learning certificates to encourage continuous education beyond traditional schooling.
Another major feature of the law is the introduction of more flexible educational pathways. Students will have access to specialized and vocational programs designed to better meet labor market demands and future career opportunities.
The reforms also strengthen support for students with disabilities. Schools will be required to provide suitable educational services, assistive technologies, and assessment methods based on each student’s individual needs.
Gifted students will also receive greater support through specialized classes, dedicated schools, enrichment centers, improved identification methods, teacher training, and partnerships with universities and research institutions.
Private schools in Saudi Arabia will face stricter quality standards under the new law. Educational institutions must obtain accreditation from the Education and Training Evaluation Commission or another internationally recognized accreditation body approved by the Kingdom.
The Ministry of Education will regulate school licensing, ownership transfers, daily operations, and the introduction of international curricula. At the same time, schools must continue teaching national identity subjects approved by the National Curriculum Center.
Applications for education licenses must receive a written decision within 30 days. Applicants whose requests are rejected will have the right to appeal the decision.
The law also provides a clearer legal framework for private and nonprofit education providers. As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia plans to expand educational services through greater private sector participation. The ministry may also provide financial or non-financial support, including human resources, to eligible institutions under approved conditions.
Teachers will be required to follow official curricula, support individual learning needs, encourage creativity, identify gifted students, promote national values, and participate in continuous professional development.
The legislation introduces stricter disciplinary measures for teachers, school administrators, and private institutions that violate regulations. Authorities may temporarily remove individuals from duty during investigations if necessary.
Serious violations could result in dismissal and permanent disqualification from working in the education sector. Private schools that fail to follow the rules may face warnings, suspension of student admissions, fines ranging from SR5,000 to SR50,000, or cancellation of their licenses.
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If a school’s license is revoked, students must be allowed to complete the academic year at the owner’s expense. This measure is intended to ensure that students’ education continues without disruption while the regulations are enforced.
