Data released by Mudhar Charity Society, whose activities are limited to the town of Qudaih in Qatif, eastern Saudi Arabia, an area rich in oil, revealed that it sought to assist 3,189 impoverished Saudi citizens during the first half of this year.

The society said that its expenditure increased by SAR 400,000 compared with the first half of last year, indicating a rise in poverty.

It is worth noting that the society’s figures do not reflect the actual number of people living in poverty, as many do not seek assistance from charitable organisations for various reasons.