RIYADH: The UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has added the holy city of Madinah, King Abdullah Economic City and Al-Ahsa to its Global Network of Learning Cities. Established in 2012, the network aims to support and improve lifelong learning worldwide by encouraging discussions about education policies, connecting cities and educational institutions, and enhancing local and international partnerships. Learning Cities promote inclusive learning within families and communities at all levels of education, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday. They also work to facilitate work-related learning, and expand the use of modern educational tools to foster a culture of lifelong learning. The Kingdom now has five cities in the network: Jubail Industrial City was added in 2020 and Yanbu Industrial City in 2022. The former received the UNESCO Learning City Award in 2021.