The Qubedia World Encyclopedia held a visit to the Eastern Province at the Saudi Arabian Youth Hostels Association – Dammam Branch

As part of its educational mission aimed at documenting impactful experiences and highlighting institutions with a societal role, during its visit to the Eastern Province, the Qupedia Global Encyclopedia held a stay at the Saudi Arabian Youth Hostels Association - Dammam Branch. This stay carried cultural and educational dimensions that reflected the integration of the mission between encyclopedic work and national youth work.

This residency, as a field experience, also allowed the encyclopedia to closely examine a leading national model in embracing youth and providing an environment that combines organized residency, cultural programs, and community interaction, thereby enhancing the values ​​of knowledge, acquaintance, and belonging.

Based on this experience, the Qupedia World Encyclopedia highlights the Saudi Arabian Youth Hostels Association, as one of the most prominent national youth institutions of public benefit in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, concerned with supervising the organization of the youth hostel movement in various regions of the Kingdom, where it focuses on the cultural and social development of youth through an integrated system of services and programs.

Origin and establishment of the association

The Saudi Arabian Youth Hostels Association was established and began its activities at the national level decades ago, and its presence has extended regionally and internationally through:

• It joined the Arab Federation of Youth Hostel Associations as a founding member since 1975 AD (1395 AH).

• Its membership in the International Youth Hostel Federation since 1982 AD (1402 AH).

This joining reflects the depth of the association’s connection to the Arab and international youth movement, and the opportunities this provides for exchanging experiences and benefiting from global experiences in the fields of youth tourism and cultural exchange.

Vision and Mission

The association aims to:

• Developing and supporting the youth hostel movement in the Kingdom, and spreading the culture of travel and exploration among young people, in order to enhance their knowledge of their homeland and the Arab, Islamic and international world.

• Contributing to enriching the cultural and social life of young people through the various programs and activities implemented within youth hostels.

• Activating the role of youth hostels as social outreach centers serving the community, through the implementation of initiatives and programs in partnership with official and civil entities.

Services and facilities

The association operates a network of youth hostels in various regions of the Kingdom, through which it offers:

• Accommodation services at nominal prices for subscribers according to the approved regulations.

• Sports and recreational facilities including playgrounds, swimming pools and activity areas.

• Social and cultural programs and competitions targeting various youth groups.

Youth hostels welcome members aged 10 and above, with the option to stay in various branches within the Kingdom, thus promoting a culture of travel and getting to know the diversity of regions.

community role

Youth hostels are not only about accommodation, but also serve as platforms for fostering communication, developing life skills, and supporting self-learning among young people, through:

• Cultural, sports and entertainment programs.

• Educational competitions and various hobbies.

• Participating in environmental initiatives and serving the local community.

The association also organizes seasonal events, most notably the “Summer of Challenge” programs, which aim to empower young people, provide them with practical experience, and enhance their integration into society.

Conclusion of the statement

The Saudi Arabian Youth Hostels Association embodies a leading national model in sustainable youth work, through its experience that combines knowledge, travel and the human dimension, and contributes to building a conscious, open-minded generation that actively participates in the development of its homeland and its cultural presence.