During the Security and History Dialogue 2026 conference, a session titled "Youth and National Identity" examined how educational and community institutions can reinforce national identity among young people, who are increasingly exposed to diverse sources of information and influence.
The discussion focused on institutional and societal mechanisms that help build national identity and consolidate its values in youth, including the roles of family, school, university, and volunteer programs with their extracurricular activities. It was emphasized that Saudi Arabia's community environment also transmits these values to residents through daily interaction and participation in events, reflecting the authentic nature of Saudi society.
The session highlighted volunteer initiatives and extracurricular university activities as key to strengthening youth connection to their communities, improving quality of life, and embedding national identity in all its dimensions—including regional identities tied to cultural and economic heritage. Examples included Al-Jouf's association with olive cultivation and Jazan's with coffee farming, alongside the religious and cultural significance of Mecca and Medina, all forming integral components of the unified Saudi national identity.