Education in Saudi Arabia

Education in Saudi Arabia; Government Initiatives and Educational Institutes for Expat Children

Saudi Arabia’s education system in 2025 is transforming under Vision 2030 to prepare citizens and residents for a knowledge-based economy. For expatriates, especially the 2.6 million Indian community, quality education is critical. This article explores the education landscape, government initiatives, and top institutes for expat children.

Education System Overview

The system includes public, private, and international schools, serving 6 million students. Public schools, free for citizens, emphasize Arabic and Islamic studies, less suitable for expatriates. Over 3,500 private and international schools offer British, American, and Indian curricula, ideal for expat families.

Government Initiatives

The Human Capital Development Program drives reforms: 

Curriculum Modernization: STEM, coding, and critical thinking are integrated, with English emphasized from primary levels. 

Tatweer Program: Upgrades infrastructure and teacher training, adding 1,200 schools by 2025. Digital platforms like Madrasati serve 80% of students. 

Higher Education: Universities like KAUST receive USD 20 billion, fostering research and global partnerships. 

Vocational Training: TVTC trains 500,000 students annually for tech and hospitality roles. 

Inclusivity: Female enrollment in higher education is 49%, with policies supporting special needs students.

Educational Institutes for Expat Children

Top international schools cater to Indian expatriates: 

International Indian School, Riyadh (IISR): CBSE-affiliated, serving 20,000 students with fees of SAR 8,000–15,000 annually. 

Delhi Private School, Jeddah: Offers CBSE and IGCSE, with fees of SAR 10,000–18,000. 

British International School, Al Khobar: Provides EYFS to A-Levels, costing SAR 40,000–70,000. 

American International School, Riyadh (AISR): Offers AP courses, with fees of SAR 50,000–80,000. 

These schools provide robotics, sports, and native English-speaking teachers. Admissions require attested records, often processed via Mosadaqa, as noted in prior discussions.

High fees and limited seats challenge expat families. Government subsidies and plans for 500 new international schools by 2030 address these issues, enhancing options.

Saudi Arabia’s education system in 2025 advances through modernization and inclusivity. International schools like IISR ensure expat children, particularly Indians, receive world-class education, supported by Vision 2030’s reforms, promising a bright future for resident families.