The Development of General Education Policy and Regulation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Journal Article

2026

This study analyzed the development of general education policy and regulation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by comparing the 1970 Education Policy Document with the 2026 General Education Law. It examined areas of continuity and transformation in educational philosophy and objectives, state responsibility, governance and the distribution of powers, educational stages and pathways, curricula, the rights of students and teachers, quality and evaluation, equity and inclusion, family and community participation, private and nonprofit sector involvement, educational financing and asset management, and oversight and accountability. The study used a descriptive method with analytical and comparative dimensions. The study examined the provisions of both documents within their respective historical and regulatory contexts, classified them into common themes, and analyzed them to identify similarities, differences, continuity, and innovation. The findings revealed that the 1970 document established a comprehensive intellectual and educational framework characterized by a detailed articulation of Islamic foundations and social and educational purposes, as well as a centralized state role in planning, financing, supervision, and educational provision.