Riyadh, February 04, 2025 – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Sport has made significant strides in promoting community sports, aligning with the nation’s broader goals under Vision 2030 to encourage healthy lifestyles, foster an active society, and enhance the quality of life for its citizens. 2024 marked a milestone in this pursuit, with community sports participation seeing a remarkable surge. Compared to 2023, the number of participants increased by an impressive 121%, while the number of events held across the Kingdom grew by 142%.
The Ministry’s dedicated and strategic approach towards strengthening the sports sector has yielded tangible results. In 2024, an estimated 58.5% of Saudi adults aged 18 and older participated in physical activity for at least 150 minutes each week. This significant figure highlights the growing commitment of the adult population towards embracing regular exercise as part of their daily routines. Additionally, the commitment to fostering a healthy, active lifestyle for younger generations is also reflected in the 18.7% of children aged 5 to 17 who engaged in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily.
These impressive increases can largely be attributed to the implementation of 242 community sports programs and events organized in 2024, designed to engage citizens from all walks of life. The reach of these initiatives was broad, spanning 32 cities and governorates across the Kingdom. Over 155,000 residents, both citizens and expatriates, participated in these events, demonstrating the widespread enthusiasm for community sports.
Notably, the Eastern Region emerged as the leader in participation, with 41,500 individuals taking part in various sports activities. This surge in engagement across the Kingdom highlights the success of localized and inclusive sports programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of all regions.
Among the diverse range of activities offered, running proved to be the most popular, with over 50,000 participants across 30 different active programs. This growing enthusiasm for running not only underscores its accessibility and appeal but also reflects a broader cultural shift towards more active lifestyles. Running, as a universal and easily accessible form of exercise, remains a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's community sports initiatives.
Furthermore, the Saudi Yoga Committee emerged as the most active sports organization in 2024, hosting more than 13 events across the Kingdom. These yoga sessions have become increasingly popular, providing individuals with a means to improve flexibility, reduce stress, and enhance both mental and physical well-being.
The Ministry of Sport’s efforts have proven to be effective in fostering a more active and health-conscious society. Looking ahead, the Ministry is committed to developing a comprehensive and sustainable strategy for community sports, recognizing the significant impact these activities have on societal well-being. This strategy will not only promote the benefits of physical activity but also ensure that the Kingdom’s vision of health, excellence, and vitality continues to thrive in the years to come.
As the nation moves forward with its Vision 2030 objectives, the importance of integrating sports and physical activity into everyday life remains a priority for the Ministry. By continuously expanding opportunities for citizens and residents to participate in community sports, the Kingdom is well on its way to achieving long-lasting health outcomes, fostering a society of active, engaged individuals, and enhancing the overall quality of life for all.