Yes, homeschooling is legal in Saudi Arabia under strict conditions. The Ministry of Education (MoE) permits it for children with special needs, chronic illnesses, or those residing abroad, subject to prior approval and annual renewal. Recent 2026 reforms emphasize digital tracking via the iEN platform to ensure compliance with national curriculum standards.
Key Regulations for Homeschooling in Saudi Arabia
- Ministry Approval Required: Parents must obtain written authorization from the MoE’s General Department of Private Education before initiating homeschooling. Applications require submission of the child’s medical records, academic transcripts, or proof of residency abroad.
- Curriculum Compliance: Homeschooled students must follow the Saudi national curriculum, including Islamic studies and Arabic language modules. The MoE conducts unannounced inspections to verify adherence, with violations risking revocation of approval.
- Assessment Mandates: Students must sit for standardized exams at designated MoE centers. Failure to meet minimum proficiency thresholds may result in mandatory enrollment in a public or private school.