Health and education drive sector expansion
Saudi Arabia’s non-profit sector experienced remarkable growth in 2023, with total revenues reaching SR54.4 billion ($14.5 billion), a 33% increase compared to 2022. The latest figures, published by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), highlight the sector’s pivotal role in driving social and economic development.
Revenue Growth
The non-profit sector’s revenue surged due to significant contributions from key activities:
- Health-related activities: Accounted for 70% of total revenue, recording the highest growth rate among all activities.
- Education and research activities: Grew by 53%, reflecting increased investments in learning and innovation.
- Volunteer brokerage and promotion activities: Achieved a 36% rise, indicating growing societal interest in volunteerism and community engagement.
These activities collectively positioned the non-profit sector as a critical enabler of Saudi Arabia’s socio-economic goals.
Expenditures Breakdown
The sector’s total expenditures climbed to SR47 billion ($12.5 billion) in 2023, with:
- Health-related activities: Leading with a 74% increase, reflecting rising investments in healthcare.
- Education and research activities: Up 55%, further emphasizing the Kingdom’s focus on knowledge-driven growth.
- Environmental activities: Witnessed a 34% rise, underscoring efforts to promote sustainability.
Workforce Contribution
The bulletin highlighted the contributions of employed individuals across key non-profit activities in 2023:
- Cultural and entertainment activities: Represented 27.6% of the workforce.
- Social services: Contributed 27.2%, addressing community needs.
- Development and housing: Accounted for 12.4%, supporting housing initiatives.
- Health activities: Made up 11.5%, bolstering healthcare accessibility.
- Education and research: Represented 7.5%, focusing on innovation.
The remaining 13.8% was distributed across other non-profit activities.
Strategic Impact
The growth of Saudi Arabia’s non-profit sector aligns with the goals of Vision 2030, which emphasizes fostering a thriving, engaged society. Increased investments in healthcare, education, and environmental initiatives underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to achieving sustainable development and improving quality of life for its citizens.
With a 33% revenue growth and expanded contributions across diverse fields, Saudi Arabia’s non-profit sector is becoming a cornerstone of the nation’s social and economic transformation. Its sustained expansion reflects the Kingdom’s strategic focus on empowering communities and driving holistic development.
