Saudi Arabia continues to bolster its social safety net with new initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of its citizens, particularly those within low-income brackets. A noteworthy development is the implementation of financial assistance for electricity bills, announced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development as part of broader support efforts.
This initiative, planned for the fiscal year 1446 AH (2025), allocates 72 Saudi Riyals monthly to each eligible family to help cover part of their electricity expenses. The objective is clear: to alleviate financial burdens for those who need it most and improve their overall quality of life.
According to the Ministry, "This support is part of comprehensive assistance programs, including basic pensions and food support," highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of its citizens. With this support, families significantly impacted by economic challenges can find some relief.
To qualify for this financial aid, potential recipients must meet several criteria. Firstly, they must be registered beneficiaries of the Saudi social security program and maintain a monthly income below 9,000 Saudi Riyals. Other requirements include permanent residency within the kingdom, possession of an active bank account for fund transfers, and ownership of independent housing.
The registration process for the support is straightforward. Interested families can begin by visiting the official website of the Ministry of Human Resources. They can navigate through the “Services” section and enter the digital support platform. Here, they will need to log in using their username and password, followed by entering their national ID and verifying their eligibility status. The aim is to streamline access to which families might need assistance quickly.
Enhancing the ease of access to social services, the Ministry recently announced the launch of the digital inclusivity service on February 17, 2025. This initiative is particularly beneficial for elderly individuals and those with disabilities, allowing them to access necessary support without needing to visit any governmental offices physically. They can now inquire about their support status and receive assistance with their applications directly via the digital platform.
This new service is aimed at fostering greater efficiency within the social support system, ensuring beneficiaries can obtain the necessary assistance at their convenience. The Ministry emphasizes, "The initiative aims to ease the financial burdens of our citizens and to fulfill their basic needs," showcasing its dedication to implementing modern practices aimed at enhancing service delivery.
Notably, the Ministry has introduced exceptions to the nationality requirement for specific categories of people. For example, foreign women married to Saudi nationals and their children, as well as individuals with disabilities and orphans without citizenship documentation, may still receive aid.
Overall, the electricity support initiative and the digital inclusivity service are significant steps toward ensuring economic stability and fostering social equity among Saudi citizens, especially those grappling with financial hardships. By prioritizing such support, the Saudi government is setting the stage for continual improvements to living standards across the nation as it navigates the challenges of modern socio-economic dynamics.