PARIS — Three Saudi cities — Riyadh, AlUla and Riyadh Al-Khabra — have been added to UNESCO's Global Network of Learning Cities, marking a major milestone in the Kingdom's efforts to advance lifelong learning and align its education system with global sustainable development goals. UNESCO's 2025 update confirms the cities' admission after they met international standards for integrating learning into daily life across schools, workplaces, public spaces and homes. The organization described them 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 nurture entrepreneurial culture. With these additions, the number of Saudi cities in the network rises to eight. The full list now includes Jubail, Yanbu, Madinah, Al-Ahsa, King Abdullah Economic City, Riyadh, AlUla and Riyadh Al-Khabra. UNESCO recognition also supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals, which prioritize education, innovation and human capital development. By strengthening lifelong learning ecosystems and expanding opportunities for upskilling and digital readiness, these cities contribute to building a knowledge-driven, diversified economy.
