Workplace Nurseries to Expand Across Saudi Employers

Workplace childcare nurseries are set to expand across government institutions and private companies in Saudi Arabia following new directives issued by the Council of Ministers.

The Cabinet directed the Ministry of Education, in coordination with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and other authorities, to develop procedures for establishing nurseries at workplaces with large workforces.

According to officials, the initiative is intended to support working parents, strengthen women’s participation in the labour market, and contribute to early childhood development goals under Vision 2030.

Authorities were tasked with preparing regulatory frameworks and operational procedures aimed at addressing organisational challenges and simplifying implementation processes across public and private sector institutions.

The Cabinet also called for nursery operating hours to align with varying schedules across ministries, education departments, and companies to better accommodate employees’ working hours and encourage enrolment in workplace childcare centres.

Support measures for existing nurseries operating within government workplaces include increased operational budgets, facility maintenance, internet infrastructure upgrades, and the recruitment of childcare staff and cleaners.

Officials said admissions at workplace nurseries will be limited to employees’ children while governance mechanisms overseeing support services will also be strengthened.