Riyadh has officially joined UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC), a global platform that brings together education, culture, and environmental sustainability. The network supports cities in embedding social and environmental priorities into learning frameworks and curricula, widening access to education across all ages and contexts, from schools and universities to community-based initiatives. It also champions lifelong learning as a driver of inclusive, future-focused development across cities worldwide.

The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) noted that this milestone underscores Riyadh’s steady progress in strengthening its position as a knowledge-driven capital, firmly rooted in its cultural heritage and identity. It also reflects a clear commitment to education and learning, with human development at the forefront of its priorities. RCRC added that this achievement mirrors the Leadership’s continued support for the education sector, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, where education is a cornerstone for building a knowledge-based society ready to navigate future challenges.

Led by RCRC in partnership with government entities, the private sector, and the local community, Riyadh’s accession marks a new chapter for international cooperation and the exchange of best practices in education and community learning. It also strengthens the city’s learning ecosystem beyond formal institutions to include the family, the community, and the workplace, enabling individuals to pursue lifelong development while promoting innovation, diversity, and adaptability.

This recognition raises the number of Saudi cities in UNESCO’s network to eight: Jubail, Yanbu, Madinah, Al-Ahsa, King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), AlUla, Riyadh Al-Khabra, and Riyadh.

UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities brings together 425 cities across 91 countries. It works to strengthen inclusive learning from basic through higher education, revitalize community and vocational learning, and expand the use of modern educational technologies, advancing individual empowerment, social inclusion, and economic and cultural prosperity.