RIYADH. Saudi Arabia has strengthened its presence on the global education map as Riyadh, AlUla, and Riyadh Al-Khabra have been officially added to the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC), a move that highlights the Kingdom’s growing commitment to lifelong learning, innovation, and sustainable development.
According to UNESCO’s 2025 update, the three cities qualified for the network after meeting rigorous international benchmarks that integrate learning opportunities across all spheres of daily life, schools, workplaces, public spaces, digital platforms, and homes.
The UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities is a worldwide coalition of cities dedicated to promoting lifelong learning for all. Member cities work to expand access to education, support skills development, encourage digital and AI literacy, promote social inclusion, and advance sustainability. Being part of the network helps cities share best practices, adopt global standards, and collaborate on initiatives that build resilient, knowledge-driven communities.
UNESCO noted that Saudi Arabia’s newly admitted cities have demonstrated strong progress in creating inclusive learning environments, reported SPA. Their initiatives provide pathways for workforce reskilling, upskilling, and entrepreneurship, while also supporting individuals who missed foundational education earlier in life. These efforts help residents adapt to the fast-evolving requirements of the modern labor market, particularly as technologies such as artificial intelligence reshape the global economy.
With this latest addition, Saudi Arabia now counts eight cities within the UNESCO learning network: Jubail, Yanbu, Madinah, Al-Ahsa, King Abdullah Economic City, Riyadh, AlUla, and Riyadh Al-Khabra. The expansion underscores the Kingdom’s continued commitment to building a sustainable, knowledge-based society in line with the goals of Vision 2030.
SU Desk is the editorial team at Saudi Updates, delivering accurate, timely, and insightful coverage of news and developments across the Kingdom. With a focus on credibility and clarity, SU Desk curates verified reports, in-depth updates, and essential information connecting Saudi Arabia with regional and global audiences.