Three new Saudi cities added to UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities

UNESCO recognition boosts Saudi drive for lifelong learning and future skills

Last updated: December 08, 2025 | 06:56

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Tourists at the Elephant Rock. The Elephant Rock is one of the world’s most popular rocks and the highlight of the region of AlUla.

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Dubai: Three Saudi cities — Riyadh, AlUla and Riyadh Al Khabra — have been admitted to UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities, bringing the Kingdom’s total to eight. The recognition marks a major milestone in Saudi Arabia’s drive to advance lifelong learning and align its education sector with global sustainable development goals.

UNESCO’s 2025 update confirmed the inclusion of the three cities after they met international benchmarks for integrating learning into all aspects of daily life, from schools and workplaces to public spaces and homes.

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With these additions, Saudi Arabia now has eight cities in the network: Jubail, Yanbu, Madinah, Al Ahsa, King Abdullah Economic City, Riyadh, AlUla and Riyadh Al Khabra.

The organisation described the cities as dynamic environments that expand opportunities for workforce reskilling and upskilling, improve literacy for those who missed early formal education, prepare communities for an AI-driven future and foster a culture of entrepreneurship.

UNESCO’s recognition supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which places strong emphasis on education, innovation and the development of human capital. By strengthening lifelong learning systems and broadening opportunities for upskilling and digital readiness, the newly recognised cities contribute to building a knowledge-driven and diversified national economy.

Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.