Jakarta (Indonesia Window) – Saudi Arabia's swift transformation under its Vision 2030 is not only reshaping the Kingdom's economy and society but also creating growing demand for global talents.

As the country pursues its ambition of becoming a global hub for innovation and a knowledge-based economy, the Saudi government is expanding opportunities for international students and professionals, particularly in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

The importance of these four disciplines was highlighted by chairperson of Indonesia’s Saudi Universities Alumni Association, Sheikh Bachtiar Nasir, Lc., during his keynote speech at the opening ceremony of Saudi Education Expo (SEE) 2026, here on Friday (July 31).

"Over the past two decades, many Saudi universities have opened their doors to international students to help meet the growing demand for expertise in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics," he said.

In addition to offering fully funded scholarships, Sheikh Bachtiar said the Saudi government is creating millions of employment opportunities with competitive salaries and comprehensive accommodation benefits.

"Don't worry about the current conflict in the Middle East. I studied at the Islamic University of Madinah during the Gulf War and graduated in 1994. Everything was safe," he said, reassuring prospective students.

As an alumnus of one of Saudi Arabia's leading universities, Sheikh Bachtiar also described the extensive benefits available to international students, including those from Indonesia.

These benefits include full tuition waivers, monthly living allowances, free accommodation, textbooks and learning materials, as well as complimentary daily meals.

However, he noted that such generous support also presents its own challenge.

"This is where the character and faith of Indonesian students are truly tested. The opportunity to deepen Islamic knowledge is tremendous, but so are the worldly temptations when virtually everything needed during one's studies is provided," he said.

Sheikh Bachtiar, who also serves as Secretary-General of the Indonesian Council of Young Intellectuals and Ulamas (MIUMI), expressed his appreciation to the Indonesian Students Association in Saudi Arabia (PPMI Saudi Arabia) for organizing Saudi Education Expo 2026, which is being held at SMESCO Convention Center in Jakarta from July 31 to August 2.

Reporting by Indonesia Window