Quality of Life Program: Saudi Arabia 2026 Explained
The Quality of Life Program is a Vision 2030 Vision Realization Program that explains how Saudi Arabia is building more livable cities in 2026 through entertainment, culture, sports, parks, and recreational infrastructure. Its core mandate is to improve daily well-being and lifestyle satisfaction for citizens and residents while supporting the Kingdom’s social and economic transformation.
Overview
Launched in 2018, the Quality of Life Program addresses one of Vision 2030’s most transformative social objectives: creating a vibrant, fulfilling daily life within Saudi Arabia that reduces the need for citizens to travel abroad for entertainment and leisure. The programme spans entertainment events, sports facilities, cultural venues, parks and green spaces, and urban amenities.
Key targets include increasing household spending on culture and entertainment from 2.9 percent to 6 percent of total spending, having three Saudi cities ranked among the top 100 most liveable cities globally, and increasing regular physical activity participation. The programme has catalyzed the opening of cinemas, live entertainment venues, sports stadiums, museums, and public parks across the Kingdom.
The programme coordinates with multiple delivery entities including the General Entertainment Authority (events and licensing), the Ministry of Culture (arts and heritage), the Ministry of Sports (athletic facilities and competitions), and municipal authorities (parks, public spaces, and urban design). Mega-events such as Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, and international sporting events (Formula 1, boxing, football) are key delivery mechanisms.
Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Launched | 2018 |
| Type | Vision Realization Program |
| Entertainment Spending Target | 6% of household spending |
| Livability Target | 3 cities in global top 100 |
| Key Deliveries | Cinemas, events, sports venues, parks, cultural institutions |
| Major Events | Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, F1, esports |
| Partner Agencies | GEA, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Sports |
Role in Vision 2030
The Quality of Life Program is the primary delivery vehicle for Vision 2030’s Vibrant Society pillar. By creating domestic entertainment, cultural, and recreational infrastructure, the programme aims to retain the billions of dollars that Saudis previously spent on leisure travel abroad while improving citizen satisfaction and well-being.
The programme also has significant economic dimensions — entertainment and culture represent new economic sectors that create jobs, attract investment, and generate consumer spending. The improvement of urban livability supports the Kingdom’s ability to attract and retain international talent, which is essential for the success of economic diversification initiatives.