Saudi Arabia has launched a new volunteer work license initiative aimed at enhancing the efficiency and safety of volunteer activities. The license is especially important in supporting services for pilgrims, a key focus area in the country’s community efforts.
This move is designed to help volunteers develop their skills and work within a structured and secure environment.
The initiative was introduced as part of the International Non-Profit Sector Exhibition 2025 (IENA), now in its third edition. This major event also includes a social investment forum and a Gulf forum, both of which aim to strengthen collaboration between non-profit organisations and both public and private entities.
In conjunction with this, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has established the Non-Profit Work Observatory Foundation. The foundation’s main role is to track the performance of the sector, gather and analyse data, and conduct in-depth studies to identify and solve the challenges facing non-profit organisations in the Kingdom.
The launch of these initiatives reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing focus on empowering its non-profit sector. Through innovation and coordination, the country seeks to raise the profile of voluntary service as a driver of social impact and national development.
By 2030, the goal is to significantly increase the number of active non-profit organisations and boost their contribution to the national GDP to five per cent. The exhibition serves as a unique platform to share knowledge, build networks, and promote partnerships between global institutions and local entities.
Overall, this initiative marks a strategic effort to formalise volunteer work, support pilgrims more effectively, and ensure that the non-profit sector continues to grow as a vital part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 development agenda.
