alrajhi bank recognized for SAR 44 million contribution to Autism Center of Excellence

Snapshot of the ceremony

Under the patronage of His Excellency the Governor of the Saudi Central Bank, Mr. Ayman Alsayari, the Autism Center of Excellence (ACE) honored alrajhi bank—represented by Chairman Mr. Abdullah bin Sulaiman Al Rajhi—for its SAR 44 million contribution to the establishment and operation of the center over a five-year period. This recognition reflects the bank’s unwavering commitment to social responsibility and inclusive development.

The award was presented during a ceremony held on Wednesday, May 28, celebrating the completion of the ACE project.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Abdullah Al Rajhi said, “Our support for the Autism Center of Excellence stems from a deep belief in the vital role of the private sector in community engagement. We are proud to work alongside all relevant stakeholders and contribute to our wise leadership’s efforts to deliver world-class care for individuals with autism spectrum disorder across the Kingdom.”

He also extended his gratitude to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the Saudi Central Bank for championing the initiative to establish the Autism Center of Excellence, adding, “With praise to Allah and the dedicated efforts of the ACE team, the Kingdom is now home to one of the largest and most advanced autism centers in the Middle East—positively impacting over 500,000 individuals with autism in Saudi Arabia.”

Mr. Al Rajhi further acknowledged the center’s team for their exceptional work in supporting individuals with autism and their families through specialized services including rehabilitation, research, professional training, family assistance, and vocational programs. He emphasized that ACE has become a national benchmark for autism care and service excellence.

Established in 2019 under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and Saudi banks through the Saudi Central Bank, the Autism Center of Excellence serves individuals with autism and related developmental disorders. The center is dedicated to enhancing quality of life and elevating the standards of rehabilitation care across the Kingdom.

alrajhi bank’s support of ACE is part of its broader commitment to sustainable development and social impact. The bank has championed various healthcare initiatives, including the establishment of alrajhi medical centers, funding 91 kidney transplants, and contributing to the "Nation of Giving" campaign during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In education, the bank launched the "Orphan Education Sponsorship Program," covering tuition fees for 200 students annually. It also contributed SAR 80 million to the King Saud University Endowment and SAR 20 million to the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals Endowment.

In the housing sector, alrajhi bank partnered with the Developmental Housing Program to build 222 homes for families in need.

In recognition of these impactful efforts, alrajhi bank received first place in the “Gold Category for Social Responsibility Practices” awarded by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.