Saudi Arabia marked the International Day of Cooperatives with 581 cooperative societies operating across the Kingdom, boasting more than 75,000 members. These societies work in agriculture, tourism, culture, housing, and other sectors, contributing approximately SR2.673 billion ($712 million) to the Kingdom’s non-oil gross domestic product (GDP).
Role in Vision 2030
The cooperative sector supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by promoting local development, community participation, and the growth of the third sector. Observed on the first Saturday of July, the day highlights the role of cooperatives in advancing sustainable development by enabling people to pool resources and expertise for the benefit of local communities.
Government Support and Regulation
The Kingdom’s cooperative sector is supported by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development through the General Directorate of Cooperative Societies. This directorate works to strengthen the regulatory environment and support the growth of cooperatives. It also helps cooperatives expand their developmental and economic roles while improving the efficiency and sustainability of their operations.
Impact on Communities
Cooperative societies continue to implement development initiatives and projects that support local communities, economic empowerment, and sustainable development. More than 8,000 people benefited from cooperative empowerment programs in 2025, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
