Shuruq Ismail Al-Sharif1*, Modhi Mohammed Alkhaldi2
1Department of Sociology and Social Work, Collage of Arts, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam,Saudi Arabia.
2Social Researcher, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
Volume: 18 | Issue: 1 | Pages: 80-102| March2026 | https://doi.org/10.54940/ss24675112 | PDF
Received: 16/12/2025 | Revised: 05/01/2026 | Accepted: 29/01/2026
*Corresponding Author: sialsharif@iau.edu.sa
Abstract
This study analyzes the role of the non-profit sector in advancing sustainable development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through an analytical examination of its historical evolution and a forward-looking assessment of its future challenges within the framework of Saudi Vision 2030 and beyond. The research problem arises from the contrast between the sector’s rapid growth and increasing recognition of its economic and social significance, and the persistence of structural, operational, and financial challenges that continue to affect its developmental effectiveness.The study adopts a case study to examine the Saudi non-profit sector within its institutional and organizational context, while incorporating a foresight perspective to explore its evolving roles and future trajectories. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with twelve experts and practitioners in the non-profit sector. Participants were selected using purposive sampling, with further participants recruited through snowball sampling.The findings reveal a qualitative transformation in the sector’s trajectory, shifting from individual charitable initiatives toward a more institutionalized and professional organizational structure. Saudi Vision 2030 has served as a strategic turning point, strengthening the sector’s position as an active development partner. Nevertheless, challenges remain, particularly in institutional capacity building, human resource development, and financial sustainability. The study recommends establishing a specialized academy for the non-profit sector to develop national expertise and enhance leadership and managerial capabilities.
Keywords
Non-Profit Sector, Future Foresight, Sustainable Development
How to Cite
Al-Sharif, S. (2026). The Non-Profit Sector and Its Role in Achieving Sustainable Development: An Analysis of Development Pathways and Future Challenges. Journal of Umm Al-Qura University for Social Sciences, 18(1), 80-102. https://doi.org/10.54940/ss24675112
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Copyright (c) 2026. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC)