The State of Distance Education in Saudi Arabia

This article provides an overview of the role of distance learning within Saudi Arabia by first briefly introducing the country itself, a general overview of the traditional education system currently in use within the country, and then an examination of the status of distance education in Saudi higher educational settings. Insight into how distance education can be successfully implemented, as well as the potential educational advantages that may arise with the further adoption of distance education in Saudi Arabia are presented. The adoption of distance education within Saudi Arabia can help address the issue of the educational overcrowding and the steady increase of the demand of Saudi students for higher education credentials, as well as empower Saudi female students to overcome social and cultural obstacles.