Saudi Minister: 90% of private university revenue from tuition fees

Minister of Education and Chairman of the Council of University Affairs Yousef Al-Benyan

Minister of Education and Chairman of the Council of University Affairs, Yousef Al-Benyan, said 90% of private universities’ revenues in Saudi Arabia stems from tuition fees. The ministry aims that the output of the private higher education sector may help establish industries and companies that add real value to the national economy.

Al-Benyan told Al-Eqtisadiah that the next phase will focus on integrating research and development into private education strategies and recruiting highly qualified faculty, while selecting top-performing students through the unified university admissions platform (UPA).

He stressed that financial and institutional sustainability of private universities is a top priority for the ministry and the Council of Universities, calling it a key responsibility of boards of trustees to ensure long-term quality and continuity.

Al-Benyan noted that both public and private universities are well-positioned to align with national transformation goals by upgrading academic programs, strengthening partnerships with government and private sectors, and emphasizing innovation and scientific research.

He added that Saudi higher education is undergoing significant improvements in governance, management, and performance, supported by the new university system, which grants greater autonomy and flexibility, and by the Council’s efforts to promote best academic and administrative practices.