Positioning Vision 2030 within the International Higher Education Landscape: Saudi Higher Education and International Transformation

Abstract

This study explores how the Saudi Universities Law of 2019 is transforming higher education in Saudi Arabia and shaping universities’ contributions to Vision 2030. It examines how institutions are modernizing curricula, strengthening governance, fostering industry partnerships, and developing diverse revenue streams. The study adopted a qualitative interpretive research design whereby data was collected through semi-structured interviews with maximum-variation sample of 25 faculty members from 14 universities across six provinces.

Findings reveal that Saudi universities are embracing modernization, with the law providing autonomy and guiding reforms in curricula, technology integration, and program accreditation. Supported by the Ministry of Education, universities are aligning education with labor market needs, pursuing financial self-sufficiency through partnerships and paid programs, and attracting top local and international talent. Accreditation by the National Center for Academic Accreditation and Evaluation (NCAAA) has strengthened standards, improved program quality, and enhanced competitiveness. Technical colleges complement these efforts by equipping students with practical skills, while universities increasingly bridge the gap between graduate qualifications and workforce demands.

The main implication of this study is that Saudi Arabia’s national vision can be most effectively achieved when institutional excellence is not confined to a small number of internationally competitive universities but gradually expanded across the broader higher education system.