On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia's Cabinet passed a law allowing foreign universities to establish branch campuses across the kingdom, Minister of Education Dr. Hamad Al-Sheikh announced.
This decision will "achieve a qualitative leap in empowerment, excellence and quality," according to Al-Sheikh, who believes "it would also be instrumental in raising the efficiency of spending, developing financial resources and human capabilities for universities in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030."
The law will be applied gradually with the opening of three universities in its first phase. These institutions - which have yet to be named - will be given a "transitional period of one year from the date of implementing the draft law."
Under the new "Law of Universities," the three colleges "will enjoy independence in accordance with the general policy approved by the State." They will be allowed to use their own resources, establish endowments and companies, approve their specialties/programs, and choose leaders on the basis of efficiency.
"I believe it's going to raise the standards of higher education in the kingdom because local colleges will up their game when faced with competition. Also, it's great to have diverse options for students and it's expected that these new universities will provide that, providing them with innovative courses," Mona, a Saudi university lecturer, told StepFeed.
The academic explained that her students are excited about the news and feel it's about time for the world's top educational institutions to come to Saudi Arabia.
"They know our country is advancing and to them it's only natural to move forward when it comes to education. Building connections with top international universities is a great start," she added.
The recently approved decision is expected to create thousands of job opportunities in Saudi Arabia. It's also a leap forward in the country's bid to modernize its education system.
According to 22-year-old Youssef, this decision will "change a lot for many."
"I know several friends who really wanted to study at specific international universities but couldn't travel for several reasons. This will no longer be the case for future students who struggle to go abroad because they'll now be able to enroll in top universities right here," he said.
Salma, a 25-year-old graduate, can't wait for new universities to open as she's hoping to apply for a master's degree when that happens.
"I did my undergraduate studies in graphic design abroad but I recently launched a small business here and don't want to leave it. At the same time, I need to study further and do a master's degree in a business related field to help me run my business," she explained.
Though great universities are present in the kingdom, the young entrepreneur failed to find a course that fits what she needs. With the introduction of new international universities, she hopes to find courses for creatives working in business fields. "I think it's an amazing opportunity for our country to build a more diverse academic scene. We're excited for it," she added.