A Comparative Analysis of Legal Special Education Provisions in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates

This article provides a comparative analysis of special education legal provisions and frameworks in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It examines the historical development, federal laws, disability categories, screening processes, free appropriate public education, individualized education plans, least restrictive environment (LRE), parent involvement, and due process rights. While both countries have made significant strides in developing inclusive policies and initiatives, areas for improvement remain, particularly in consistent LRE implementation, clearer parental safeguards, and robust dispute-resolution mechanisms. As nations with shared cultural ties, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have immense potential for exchanging best practices to drive regional progress in ensuring equitable, inclusive education for all learners.