Abstract
This study examined stakeholders' views concerning students with special needs in Saudi Arabia, and their perspectives on inclusion or exclusion from mainstream schools. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. The research sample included 21 parents and 32 teachers as stakeholders representing a range of individuals directly involved in education in the special needs' arena in the Saudi Arabia context. The results revealed that several stakeholders opposed those children with special educational needs (SEN) being included in general schools. Moreover, knowledge was found to be lacking among stakeholders regarding legislation for children with special needs. Analysis of the findings clarified the stakeholders' perceptions of special needs education. Based on these results, practice implications for reforms in education for children with special educational needs in Saudi Arabia are discussed.