Population Ageing and Social Policy Challenges in Saudi Arabia
An in-depth analysis of demographic transitions, care needs, and policy responses for an ageing Saudi society.
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Population Ageing in the Middle East
Advancing Research, Advocacy, and Action for Ageing Societies in the Middle East
Research-driven solutions to improve dignity, wellbeing, and social inclusion of older adults across Saudi Arabia and the wider region.
- Evidence-based advocacy and policy support
- Regional research and demographic expertise
- Improving dignity and wellbeing of older adults
60+
Years of Combined Research Experience
GCC & MENA
Regional Focus
Who We Are
A Regional Centre Advancing Knowledge, Policy, and Practice on Ageing
MECAP is a Middle East–focused centre dedicated to understanding and responding to population ageing through rigorous research, informed advocacy, and practical social action.
With a strong regional focus on Saudi Arabia, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the wider Middle East, MECAP works at the intersection of academia, policy, and community engagement to support the dignity, wellbeing, and inclusion of older adults.
Our work is grounded in academic excellence and professional expertise, translating demographic and public health research into evidence-based policy guidance and age-friendly initiatives across the region.
Learn More About MECAP
Middle East Focus
Saudi Arabia, GCC, and regional contexts
Research & Policy
Evidence-driven insights for decision makers
Social Action
Programs that improve lives of older adults
Academic Foundation
Public health, demography, and ageing studies
Our Core Work Areas
Research, Policy, and Action for Ageing Societies
MECAP works across interconnected domains to generate knowledge, inform policy, and improve the lives of older adults across the Middle East.
Research on Ageing
- Population ageing trends and transitions
- Health, quality of life, and care needs
- Migration, urbanisation, and family structure impacts
Statistical & Demographic Analysis
- Census and survey data analysis
- Population projections and modelling
- Evidence for policymakers and planners
Advocacy for Older Adults
- Elder rights and social protection
- Age-friendly living environments
- Challenging ageism and stereotypes
Consultancy & Advisory
- Government and NGO advisory services
- Elder care system design and assessment
- Data-driven planning and evaluation
Research to Practice
Turning Evidence into Policy and Real-World Impact
MECAP bridges the gap between academic research and practical action, ensuring that evidence informs policy decisions and leads to sustainable improvements in the lives of older adults.
1
Research & Data
We conduct rigorous research and statistical analysis on ageing, health, and demographic change to generate reliable, region-specific evidence.
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2
Policy & Strategy
Research findings are translated into policy guidance, planning tools, and strategic recommendations for governments and institutions.
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3
Programmes & Action
Policies are implemented through age-friendly programmes, services, and community initiatives grounded in local contexts.
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4
Monitoring & Evaluation
Continuous monitoring and evaluation ensure effectiveness, accountability, and long-term sustainability of interventions.
Evidence-Based Decisions
Policies and programmes guided by data, not assumptions
Accountability & Learning
Clear metrics to assess impact and improve outcomes
Sustainable Impact
Long-term solutions embedded in regional systems
Key Social Projects & Programmes
Translating Evidence into Action for Older Adults
MECAP develops and supports practical initiatives that improve the dignity, wellbeing, and inclusion of older adults across Middle Eastern societies.
Age Friendly Cities Initiative
Collaborating with municipalities to design accessible public spaces, safe mobility, and inclusive urban environments for older adults.
Learn More →Elderly Day Care & Community Centres
Establishing community hubs that provide social engagement, basic health monitoring, and supportive services for older adults.
Learn More →Mobile Health & Social Outreach
Delivering essential health and social services to older adults in rural, remote, and underserved communities through mobile teams.
Learn More →Intergenerational Engagement Programmes
Connecting older adults and younger generations through mentoring, cultural exchange, and skill-sharing initiatives.
Learn More →Digital Inclusion & Tele Support
Empowering older adults with digital skills and access to telehealth, communication tools, and online support services.
Learn More →Community-Based Long-Term Care Networks
Developing volunteer and community support systems to assist older adults living alone or with limited family care.
Learn More →
Social Initiatives & Long-Term Engagement
Building Sustainable Systems for Ageing Societies
Beyond individual projects, MECAP works to strengthen social systems, build capacity, and foster regional collaboration for lasting impact.
Awareness & Education Campaigns
Public awareness initiatives that challenge ageism, promote respect for older adults, and highlight the social and economic value of ageing populations.
Training for Caregivers & Service Providers
Capacity-building programmes for formal and informal caregivers, healthcare staff, and social service providers.
Community Clubs & Support Networks
Establishing inclusive community spaces that foster social connection, mutual support, and active participation among older adults.
Policy Engagement & Regional Collaboration
Working with governments, academic institutions, and regional bodies to align ageing policies and share evidence-based best practices.
Publications & Knowledge Leadership
Evidence That Shapes Policy and Practice
MECAP produces peer-reviewed and policy-relevant research focused on population ageing in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East.
Ageing, Health Systems, and Long-Term Care in the Gulf States
Comparative evidence on healthcare capacity, family care, and long-term care systems across GCC countries.
Read SummaryDemographic Change and Older Adults’ Wellbeing in the Middle East
Peer-reviewed research examining quality of life, social inclusion, and policy implications for older adults in the region.
Read Summary
Regional Impact & Reach
Advancing Ageing Policy Across the Middle East
MECAP’s work spans research, policy engagement, and partnerships across Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East, with a growing regional footprint.
8+
Countries Engaged
Saudi Arabia, GCC & Middle East
25+
Research Outputs
Reports, briefs & studies
15+
Policy Contributions
Consultations & advisory inputs
20+
Partner Institutions
Universities, NGOs & agencies
Our regional ambition is grounded in evidence, collaboration, and a long-term commitment to strengthening ageing policy across diverse social and cultural contexts.
Advocacy & Policy Engagement
Informing Policy. Advancing Elder Rights. Shaping Ageing Futures.
MECAP works closely with governments, regional bodies, and civil society to strengthen policies, social protection systems, and age-friendly environments across the Middle East.
Policy Dialogue & Advisory
Engaging ministries, planners, and institutions through evidence-based policy dialogue, technical consultations, and strategic advisory support.
Social Protection Advocacy
Promoting inclusive social protection systems, pensions, healthcare access, and long-term care frameworks that respond to ageing populations.
Elder Rights & Inclusion Campaigns
Raising awareness on elder rights, dignity, and participation while challenging ageism and negative stereotypes in public discourse.
Regional & Cross-Border Collaboration
Facilitating collaboration across GCC and Middle East countries to share evidence, align policy approaches, and scale best practices.
Partners & Collaborations
Institutional Partnerships for Regional Impact
MECAP works in partnership with public institutions, civil society, and academic organizations to strengthen ageing research, policy dialogue, and programme implementation across the Middle East.
Government Bodies
Engagement with ministries, municipalities, and public agencies to support evidence-informed ageing policy, social protection, and age-friendly development.
Non-Governmental Organizations
Collaboration with NGOs and community-based organizations to co-design and deliver inclusive programmes for older adults.
Academic & Research Institutions
Joint research, publications, and capacity-building initiatives with universities and research centres in the region and beyond.
Regional & International Partners
Cooperation with regional networks and international organisations to align approaches, share best practices, and scale impact.
Support Our Mission
Investing in Dignity, Evidence, and Impact for Ageing Societies
Your support enables rigorous research, effective advocacy, and practical programmes that improve the wellbeing and dignity of older adults across Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
Why Your Support Matters
Population ageing presents one of the most significant social and policy challenges facing the Middle East. Sustainable solutions require evidence, long-term planning, and community-based action.
- ✔ Independent research on ageing and demographic change
- ✔ Policy engagement and advisory support for governments
- ✔ Community programmes and outreach for older adults
- ✔ Capacity building and training for caregivers
MECAP is committed to transparency, accountability, and ethical stewardship of all funds received.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of Ageing in the Middle East
Support evidence-based ageing research, collaborate on policy and programmes, or engage with MECAP to advance dignity, inclusion, and wellbeing for older adults across the region.