Saudi schoolbooks show reduced anti-Christian, anti-Jewish content, watchdog says

An Israeli monitoring group found that Saudi Arabia has removed many passages in its textbooks that portrayed Christians and Jews negatively, replacing them with lessons on coexistence and tolerance.

A review of 136 Saudi textbooks by the Institute for Monitoring Peace and Cultural Tolerance in School Education indicates substantial revisions that reduce overtly intolerant language toward Christians and Jews. A previously included hadith likening these faiths to maimed animals has been removed, and 11th-grade lessons now focus on the Prophet Muhammad’s historical treaties with Christian and Jewish communities. Ninth-grade curricula feature Galileo as an example of independent thought, while sixth-grade students are prompted to argue against the idea that kindness is exclusive to Muslims.

The report also highlights new sections that promote empathy for migrant workers and individuals with disabilities, reflecting broader goals of Vision 2030. Critics of the watchdog note occasional inconsistencies, such as the reinstatement of a “report sorcerers” directive, and point out that some geopolitical language, like labeling Israel an occupying power, remains. Nonetheless, the study concludes the curriculum is moving toward greater moderation and inclusivity.