The History of Saudi Arabia Non-Profit Sector

efore delving into the history of the non-profit sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it's important to clarify that in this context, the term "non-profit sector" encompasses charitable actions, both individual and organizational, aimed at supporting those in need through financial support, food, shelter, and other means contributing to their welfare. Charitable deeds carried out by individuals or groups with altruistic intentions are considered part of the non-profit sector.

The Kingdom's history is rich with examples of charitable individuals and organizations dedicated to helping and contributing to the greater good. This inclination towards philanthropy is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, which encourage acts of compassion and generosity.

To kickstart the non-profit sector movement in the Kingdom, its Founder, King Abdulaziz, established spaces for it within various institutional entities, paving the way for its growth and evolution. The following timeline highlights key phases of its development:

1928: King Abdulaziz established a system for distributing donations and funding, laying the foundation for the country's social welfare.

1929: The Higher Charity Committee was established in Makkah al-Mukarramah.

1934: The first orphan care facility, named the Home of the Two Holy Mosques’ Orphans, opened in Medina.

1963: The first home for the elderly and ill, aimed at caring for elderly and disabled pilgrims, opened in Makkah al-Mukarramah.

The sector's modern institutional launch can be traced back to the establishment of the Ministry of Hajj and Awqaf in 1961 (currently known as the General Authority of Awqaf). Additionally, Al-Bir Society in Makkah Al-Mukarramah, founded in 1951, is among Saudi's earliest registered philanthropic organizations.

The non-profit sector gained momentum in the Kingdom in the mid-20th century, with significant growth in the 1970s, coinciding with the country's economic prosperity driven by the oil industry. This period saw the emergence of various social programs and philanthropic organizations, including those in the country's first oil fields.

Given the Kingdom's nearly three-century history, there is an urgent need to further develop its non-profit sector to maximize its contribution to the nation's social and economic development.Top of Form