Factors Underlying the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Protection of the Rights of Individuals with Disabilities

Abstract

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has always observed the rights of individuals with disabilities, as evident from the laws that KSA has enacted, based on the principles of Islamic law. KSA has made significant progress at several levels: (1) enacting definite policies and statutes to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities and maximize their potential contribution to the development of their country, (2) issuing executive regulations and providing required funds to include individuals with disabilities in education, health, and other institutions, and (3) developing programs to rehabilitate individuals with disabilities, provide them with employment, and recognize their dignity. Hence, KSA extensively recognizes the rights of individuals with disabilities by considering them as key partners in the development of Saudi society.