The issue of corporate social responsibility has been getting greater attention by many companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the rest of the region. As an essential part of corporate social policy, CSR has also been gaining more institutional aspects as companies tend to integrate this activity into the broader effort for economic and social development.

Since Zakat (wealth tax) became an Islamic pillar, social solidarity and communal work has always been unanimously considered as a major component of Islamic and Arab heritage. However, the incorporation of such moral principles into companies’ policies and established duties has still some way to go. With most regional governments now introducing plans for sustainable economic and social development, the issue of corporate social responsibility is featuring more and more as an essential ingredient in nationwide efforts aimed at ensuring social welfare and equity among citizens. Considering these important changes, the issue of social corporate responsibility needs to be considered with a fresh look that goes beyond the traditional concept of charity or social mutual help and public relations.

Against this background, the main aim of the Saudi CSR Forum is to work out a broad framework defining the basics and main criteria of CSR, as defined within the Saudi and Arab context. The forum has been raising keen interest and is expected to attract active participation by a wide array of government institutions, Saudi and global corporations as well as specialists and consultancy firms. Many Arab organizations have also expressed their intention to attend the event.

Among the subject that will be prominently featured on the forum’s agenda, are the following:

• The evolution and latest trends in Corporate Social Responsibility policies
• How to transform CSR plans from individual initiatives into strategic corporate initiatives with companies
• Potential economic impact of a consensus based CSR strategy
• Establishing a national framework for CSR. (Through a partnership between public, private institutions and NGOs.)
• Suggested policy options and priorities for CSR programs (such as tackling poverty, investing in human resources, protecting the environment and providing support for groups with special needs etc..
• Case studies on CSR initiatives in Saudi Arabia and other countries.