Which Saudi Cities Are Included on the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities?

The Saudi cities designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as International Learning Cities include eight cities. In 2020, Jubail Industrial City was designated, followed by Yanbu Industrial City in 2022. In 2024, three Saudi cities were designated: Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, King Abdullah Economic City, and Al-Ahsa Governorate.

In 2025, UNESCO designated three Saudi cities as Learning Cities: Riyadh, AlUla in the Madinah Region, and Riyadh Al-Khabra in Qassim Province.

These cities promote inclusive learning for all, from basic education through higher education; stimulate learning at the level of families and local communities; facilitate learning for employment; and expand the use of modern educational tools to foster a culture of lifelong learning. Saudi Arabia places strong emphasis on the quality of education, ensuring lifelong access to educational opportunities for all members of society, and implementing policies that support sustainable intellectual development.