Saudi Arabia Opens New Door for Student Life on Private School Campuses
Saudi Arabia has introduced a significant change for private schools. The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing now allows on-campus student housing. This policy permits residential buildings within school grounds.
However, these housing facilities must be in a separate building from the main classrooms. The new rules are part of broader regulations for private learning centers. Therefore, they cover nurseries, kindergartens, and educational complexes.
New Rules for Schools and Safety
The ministry issued new municipal requirements for private schools. These rules aim to enhance environmental quality and safety standards. They also help regulate urban planning across communities.
The requirements apply to schools on dedicated land or leased government property. They also cover buildings on commercial land. Consequently, all private educational buildings must follow specific controls and standards.
Key Standards for School Buildings
The regulations set clear standards for school construction and location. For example, an educational building must be located on two streets. One of these streets must be at least 25 meters wide.
In addition, buildings cannot exceed a specified number of floors. They must also observe mandatory setbacks from property lines. Nurseries are an exception, as they may be on a single 15-meter-wide street.
The rules also ensure students have enough space. There is a minimum land area required per student. This area starts at four square meters per kindergarten student.
It increases to five square meters per student in larger educational complexes. This standard provides a suitable learning environment for all.
Improved Educational Landscape
This change marks a positive shift in Saudi Arabia’s educational landscape. It allows schools to create integrated living and learning communities. Students may now live closer to their classrooms.
The policy supports a more complete educational experience. It also gives families more options when choosing a school. The full requirements are available on the Ministry’s website.
