Empowering the Non-Profit Sector: Launch of Volunteer Work License Initiative and Non-Profit Observatory
Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Riyadh Region, the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Eng. Ahmed bin Suleiman Al-Rajhi, has unveiled a transformative initiative focused on volunteerism—the Volunteer Work License. Simultaneously, he inaugurated the Non-Profit Observatory aimed at enhancing services for pilgrims, heralding significant developmental and economic advancements within the sector. This initiative addresses the need for qualified volunteers and aims to improve the operational efficiency of organizations while fostering social innovation. Ultimately, these efforts are expected to bolstering the sustainability of the non-profit sector and augmenting its contribution to the local economy.
This announcement came during the opening of the third edition of the International Non-Profit Sector Exhibition 2025, known as "Ina." The exhibition serves as a prominent platform that includes a social investment forum and a Gulf gathering designed to strengthen the relationship between the non-profit sector and both the government and private sectors. The exhibition stands out as a unique venue, bringing together various non-profit organizations along with governmental entities and international institutions, facilitating collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of innovative solutions.
The non-profit sector plays a critical role in achieving sustainable development goals as well as enhancing human capacities. The aim is to increase the number of non-profit entities across various developmental fields with the target of elevating the sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 5% by the year 2030.
Al-Rajhi elaborated on the significance of the Volunteer Work License, which is designed to train and enhance the capabilities of volunteers, empowering them to undertake their responsibilities with excellence and professionalism. This initiative falls within the framework of the national volunteer system, and it seeks to celebrate and govern volunteerism in a structured and secure manner. Particularly, this effort aligns with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes promoting a culture of philanthropy and developing institutional community work.
Additionally, the Non-Profit Observatory dedicated to servicing pilgrims is aimed at systematically monitoring the real conditions within the sector. By collecting and analyzing data, the observatory plans to generate qualitative studies that will address the challenges and obstacles faced by non-profit organizations. This initiative strives to enhance coordination among relevant stakeholders while promoting sustainability and raising the level of excellence within these organizations, in line with national development aspirations.
Through these initiatives, the Saudi government is clearly setting the stage for increased engagement and professionalism within the voluntary sector. The Volunteer Work License and the establishment of the Non-Profit Observatory reflect a concerted effort to foster innovation and collaboration in social work, paving the way for a more resilient and effective non-profit landscape.
In summary, the launch of the Volunteer Work License and the Non-Profit Observatory signifies a major step forward in revitalizing the non-profit sector in Saudi Arabia. These initiatives not only highlight the importance of qualified volunteers but also promote the idea of systemic support and development within this essential sector. The future vision includes a thriving non-profit ecosystem that contributes significantly to both economic growth and social cohesion—goals that are very much aligned with the Kingdom’s broader development ambitions.
