Saudi Arabia, Kuwait ban graduation ceremonies outside schools

Gulf News

26-04-2025

Cairo: Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have banned graduation ceremonies outside educational institutions, a move seen as aimed at easing financial pressure on students' families.
The Saudi Ministry of Education has issued a decree limiting such events to school premises and under specific regulations, according to media reports.
Similarly, Kuwaiti Minister of Education Jalal Al Tabtabaei decreed that ceremonies — whether marking graduation, academic distinction, or other occasions — should be held within school premises only, and not outside.
The decree directed school administrations to coordinate and hold such celebrations in accordance with the relevant regulations approved by the ministry.
According to Kuwaiti newspaper Al Seyassah, citing informed sources, the decree was preceded by an extensive study covering the expected repercussions and cautious reactions, particularly from private and foreign schools in the country.
The study concluded that the decree will be applied to all schools in Kuwait.
Saudi education advisor Fawzia Al Waqit commended the decision as "wise."
In remarks to TV channel Al Saudiya, she pointed to violations at some graduation ceremonies, noting they had turned into expensive events. According to her, some halls where such celebrations are held cost nearly SR120,000, paid for by parents — not to mention the expenses for graduation gowns and food.
Such extravagance, she added, may make some students feel marginalised and lead to unhealthy comparisons among graduates.