Physical activity policy in Saudi Arabia: analysis of progress and challenges

Abstract

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is currently undergoing radical and dynamic changes towards development and prosperity across various domains. The Saudi government is focused on promoting physical activity because of its economic, health and cultural benefits. Therefore, sport policy represents a key part of the Saudi government’s Vision (Vision 2030) within the national Quality of Life Programme. The purpose of the study was to analyse the initiatives within the policy that relate to physical activity promotion across the population. The analysis was based on the Comprehensive Analysis of Policy on Physical Activity framework to audit and assess relevant parts of the policy. Published materials were appraised to provide evidence on the progress with achieving the policy’s goals and semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders. Our analysis indicated an ambitious but well-founded policy and the achievement of several objectives. The most apparent achievements have thus far been the rapid, albeit modest cultural change in terms of physical activity, allowing women’s sports and stimulating the level of physical activity among Saudis. Nonetheless some goals are further from being achieved, particularly those around female participation in sports. In conclusion, some progress has been made in realising the policy in relation to physical activity, but various factors exist that have hindered success in certain areas.