RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s non-profit sector’s efforts during the Hajj season led to the registration of 61 new organizations in June, bringing the total number of establishments to 4,942. Data issued by the National Center for Non-Profit Sector also revealed the number of volunteers in the sector increased to reach 105,000 in June, up from around 100,000 recorded in May. The newly registered entities comprise 46 civil associations, five civil institutions, and 10 family funds, covering a wide range of development fields across the Kingdom. This aligns with the non-profit sector’s key role in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification initiative. It also supports the sector’s aim to improve the quality of life and enhance human, social, and religious values. Additionally, it reinforces the center’s commitment to collaborating with all parties to ensure transparent oversight of donation collection and disbursement. The center emphasized the importance of compliance with regulations, guidelines, and procedures within the non-profit sector. The statement indicated that collaboration with the Hajj and Umrah organization and other relevant entities facilitated pilgrimage rituals for nearly 2 million people. The center also participated in the Siqaya and Rifadah committees, overseeing non-profit activities related to water and food distribution for pilgrims. The committee approved over 70 non-profit organizations to provide these services during Hajj. Additionally, the center took regulatory action against certain non-profit organizations and individuals. This included issuing warnings, dissolving boards of directors, and appointing temporary boards. The center also revoked licenses and issued violations for improper fundraising practices. In February, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi announced a 173 percent increase in non-profit organizations since 2018. During a speech at the Second Annual Forum for Non-Governmental Organizations in Riyadh, Al-Rajhi also noted a surge in beneficiary satisfaction, reaching 86 percent at that time — surpassing the 2025 target. The minister emphasized the pivotal role of the council and its collaboration with the center, praising the leadership’s support for the non-profit sector and commending the council’s efforts and achievements in advancing Saudi Vision 2030 goals. In June 2023, Al-Rajhi said that the nonprofit sector played a significant role in national development, creating “sustainable impacts” and establishing robust partnerships with community institutions and individuals through the implementation of “many outstanding projects.”