Saudi Arabia Launches National Youth Development Policy

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has introduced a new nationwide policy aimed at strengthening the role of young people in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. The General Policy for Youth Development outlines a framework to support youth participation across government, private sector and nonprofit organisations.

The policy focuses on five key areas of growth: economic empowerment, community participation, education and lifelong learning, health and wellbeing, and national identity and religious values. It aims to provide young Saudis with tools and opportunities to become innovators, problem solvers and active contributors to society.

Officials said the policy was developed after research into youth preparation programmes in 20 leading countries and over 34 workshops with stakeholders. It also seeks to fill legislative gaps, address youth-related challenges and financially support youth-led initiatives.

Objectives under the policy include promoting digital safety, protecting youth from discrimination and violence, ensuring equal opportunities for both genders, and supporting young Saudis with disabilities.

The launch of the General Policy for Youth Development is seen as a key step in efforts to position Saudi Arabia as a hub for youth enrichment, especially as 69.4 percent of the population is under 35, with 35.9 percent aged 15 to 34.