How Saudi Arabia’s mission to become a global AI hub sparked a race for tech talent

Established in 2019, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority aims to train 20,000 specialists to ensure that Saudis can fill highly skilled AI roles by 2030. (SPA)
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Updated 07 March 2025
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How Saudi Arabia’s mission to become a global AI hub sparked a race for tech talent

  • Investment, education, and innovation are closing the skills gap and creating a globally competitive workforce
  • Graduates and job postings in AI fields have boomed, highlighting surging demand for skilled professionals

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s multibillion-dollar investment in artificial intelligence, which is central to its Vision 2030 economic transformation, faces a significant hurdle: a shortage of skilled professionals to drive the nation’s high-tech ambitions.

From cognitive cities such as NEOM to AI-driven healthcare innovations, the Kingdom’s future depends on bridging this skills gap through the implementation of three key strategies: government-led policies, private-sector innovation, and expanded academic opportunities.

A report titled “The State of AI in Saudi Arabia,” published ahead of the 2024 GAIN Summit in Riyadh, highlighted the surging demand for expertise in the field, with AI-related job postings increasing by nearly 54 percent annually between 2018 and 2022.

In 2019, the government established the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority to oversee the National Strategy for Data and AI, with the aim of training 20,000 specialists to ensure that Saudis can fill highly skilled AI roles by 2030.

The Kingdom is already leading the region in AI strategy development, ranking first in the Arab world and 14th globally, according to a 2024 report by UNESCO.

This confidence has translated into considerable investments. Saudi Arabia secured $1.79 billion in AI-focused funding at the 2025 LEAP tech conference last month, for example, reinforcing the country’s status as a growing hub for innovation.

The 2024 GAIN Summit report also revealed a 42 percent increase in the number of graduates in AI-related subjects between 2022 and 2023, reflecting the Kingdom’s focus on the development of homegrown tech talent.

At the academic level, 86 percent of Saudi universities now offer AI-focused undergraduate degrees, 56 percent have master’s programs, and 9 percent provide opportunities to study for a doctorate.




Central to the Saudi Arabia’s strategy is a reimagining of educational systems to cultivate AI technicians, blending technical rigor with real-world problem-solving to support the digital economy. (Supplied)

Central to the Kingdom’s strategy is a reimagining of educational systems to cultivate AI technicians, blending technical rigor with real-world problem-solving to support the digital economy.

Omar Alolayan, co-founder of Almutanabi FinTech, believes AI professionals must strengthen their skills in terms of business acumen, machine-learning operations, cross-functional collaboration, and data engineering.

“Training should focus on industry-specific AI, hands-on deployment, and cross-disciplinary learning to bridge these gaps,” he told Arab News, adding that scalable, accessible AI education is key to closing the talent divide.

“Strategies like online-learning platforms, AI hubs in rural areas, scholarships and mentorship programs can expand access. No-code AI tools also democratize learning for diverse groups, and inclusivity will be critical to sustaining the Kingdom’s AI momentum.”




The SDAIA funds nationwide boot camps for all skill levels. (SDAIA photo)

Efforts to align education with workforce needs are already in motion.

“Schools like King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals have introduced flexible AI and data-science master’s tracks, while government entities like SDAIA are funding nationwide boot camps for all skill levels,” Alolayan said.

He stressed that collaboration is essential and added: “Schools must update curricula, governments should incentivize training, and companies need to offer mentorship and reskilling opportunities.”

The GAIN Summit report also noted that between 2019 and 2023, more than 38,000 students graduated with AI-related degrees, including computer science and engineering, 6,500 of whom studied abroad.




Saudi youth attending a forum during the 2024 GAIN Summit in Riyadh. (SDAIA photo)

Sultan Albarakati, executive director of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology Academy, told Arab News: “KAUST is progressively taking a more proactive role in workforce development in the Kingdom.

“It leverages massive open online courses and cloud resources to deliver practical, hands-on AI training at scale across the Kingdom.”

KAUST partners with the public and private sectors to create tailored upskilling programs for Saudi professionals, he added.

“These training programs aim to democratize AI education and are run in partnership with national entities like NTDP (the National Technology Development Program),” Albarakati said.




KAUST partners with the public and private sectors to create tailored upskilling programs for Saudi professionals. (KAUST photo)

KAUST also helps connects top graduates with employers through annual showcases, and supports student-led startups through incubators.

Bernard Ghanem, a professor of electrical and computer engineering and director of KAUST’s Center of Excellence on Generative AI, described how the institution translates its cutting-edge research into tools that benefit key sectors in Saudi Arabia.

“Much of KAUST’s AI research is open source, with tools and models made available to the public,” he told Arab News.

“Leveraging the world-class AI research at KAUST, the center aims to develop an easy-to-use, no-code platform for non-experts to use our open-source models.”

Private enterprises are also accelerating the Kingdom’s AI capabilities, through strategic investments and infrastructure projects. Alibaba Cloud, for example, has partnered with Tuwaiq Academy and STC to launch AI-training labs at Saudi universities. Databricks has pledged $300 million over the next five years to support AI and data adoption in the country.




Bootcamp at Tuwaiq Academy in Riyadh. (X: @TuwaiqAcademy)

In 2023, SDAIA partnered with Google Cloud to launch the Elevate Program, a five-year initiative designed to train 1,000 women from 28 countries in machine learning, with plans to upskill more than 25,000 by 2028.

Fadi Kanafani, general manager for the Middle East region at SoftServe, emphasized the important role such partnerships play in striking a balance between the retention of local talent and the utilization of international expertise.

“Retaining top AI talent while attracting global expertise requires a multifaceted approach that combines research incentives, industry collaboration and career-development opportunities,” he told Arab News.




A joint undertaking of the SDAIA and Google Cloud, the Elevate Program aims to train over 25,000 women from various nations in advanced technical domains in five years. (SPA/file)

He also noted that initiatives such as grants and fellowships for AI research could incentivize Saudi professionals to lead groundbreaking projects while attracting international experts.

“Establishing AI hubs within giga-projects like NEOM can foster collaboration between local and global talent, creating an ecosystem where innovation thrives,” Kanafani said.

Career-acceleration programs, developed with partners such as Aramco and the Ministry of Investment, are also vital for efforts to provide Saudis with world-class domestic opportunities, he added.
 

 


Riyadh school selected as one of world’s top 100 for 2025

Updated 13 March 2025
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Riyadh school selected as one of world’s top 100 for 2025

  • BISR is one of just 100 schools from around the world selected for inclusion in the top tier of the Spear’s Schools Index

RIYADH: British International School Riyadh has been named in the Top 100 Independent Schools in the World list in the 2025 Spear’s Schools Index, a guide to the world’s most prestigious schools.

Its dedication to student excellence, state-of-the-art educational facilities, high academic results and hyper-tailored teaching programs all combined to secure the honor.

As well as the intellectual support on offer, the accolade recognizes BISR’s commitment to nurturing enthusiastic and kind global citizens through comprehensive pastoral schemes.

The full list will be announced at a launch event in London on March 15, where leaders from the best schools around the world will have the opportunity to network and celebrate their continued efforts in education.

Since its launch in 2020, the Spear’s Schools Index has garnered growing recognition in a range of national and international media and established its reputations as a definitive index of the world’s 100 leading private schools.

BISR Director of Schools Helen Olds said: “We are incredibly honored to be awarded this recognition. This achievement is testament to the dedication and hard work of our students, faculty and staff. We remain committed to providing an exceptional educational experience that fosters growth, innovation and excellence in every student. We extend our gratitude to our entire school community for making this possible.”

Edwin Smith, Spear’s editor-in-chief, said: “BISR is one of just 100 schools from around the world selected for inclusion in the top tier of the Spear’s Schools Index. This selection directly reflects the judgement and insights of the leading educationalists on our expert advisory panel, who took into account factors including academic attainment, social, cultural and pastoral considerations, standing, reputation and character.

“BISR thoroughly deserves its place. Its inclusion is testament to the school’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching and holistic development of its students.”


‘Ramadan hours’ — the social and economic effects of changing schedules

Updated 13 March 2025
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‘Ramadan hours’ — the social and economic effects of changing schedules

  • Markets and roads can be seen teeming with shoppers at night

RIYADH: With the advent of Ramadan, the rhythm of Saudi cities shifts more toward nightlife, carrying on until just before dawn.

In light of the fasting from food and drink throughout the day in Ramadan, establishments extend their opening hours later into the evening.

Markets and roads can be seen teeming with shoppers at night, and homes are busy welcoming visitors.

Reham Al-Azwari, clinical nutrition track leader at the Makkah Health Cluster, spoke to Arab News about the importance of healthy eating habits during Ramadan to enhance productivity as working hours shift.

The historic district of Jeddah during Ramadan. (Getty Images)

Healthy nutrition “helps improve productivity during the day, even with the change in lifestyle to nighttime,” Al-Azwari said.

“Despite the economic and social benefits, the nighttime shift in Ramadan is not without challenges, especially in terms of health,” she said.

“Changing sleep patterns and staying up late for long hours can negatively affect general health. Staying up at night and sleeping during the day can lead to disruptions in the body’s biological clock, affecting focus and productivity during the day.

“We have to follow moderation … in staying up late and having sufficient sleep, especially for people who work during the day,” Al-Azwari said‎.

Pilgrims from all over the world gather around Masjid al-Haram on the twenty-ninth night of Ramadan in Makkah. (Getty Images)

Abdulaziz Al-Kaltham, professor of sociology at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, spoke to Arab News about the societal effects of Ramadan hours.

“Ramadan rituals reshape social structures clearly and evidently, as most daily activities turn into intensive social activities,” he said.

“Many activities in Ramadan, such as charitable iftar tables, enhance the values of solidarity and giving, where individuals from different social classes participate in providing food,” Al-Kaltham said.

“This type of interaction contributes to bridging social gaps between social classes ‎and contributes to creating an atmosphere of social justice,” he said.

Dhahi Alwan Al-Barrak, CEO of Zatisto Services, has faced difficulties importing products from major establishments operating during daytime hours, and retail stores that often open during the evening.

Lights, celebrations, people talking and drinking Arabic coffee, shops selling drinks and snacks, and banners with Al-Baha Ramadan on them in the city of Al-Hajra in Al-Baha region celebrating the month of Ramadan. (Getty Images)

“During Ramadan, we operate under two systems. On one hand, we must deal with suppliers who work during the day, and on the other hand, we open our stores at night to receive customers. This requires extra effort and careful coordination,” he said.

However, Al-Barrak said that the month offers an opportunity for employees to form a closer bond.

“Ramadan brings us together as a team. We work together at night, and we share iftar and suhoor meals, which strengthens the bonds between us. This sense of cohesion helps us overcome challenges,” he said.

Mansour Al-Osaimi, founder of Right Decision for Customer Experience Consulting, said that Ramadan imposes a different rhythm on daily life, where the evening period after iftar becomes a valuable time for interacting with customers.

“Companies can adapt the customer experience by adjusting working and service hours to suit peak periods after iftar, and providing flexible services such as order delivery during evening hours,” he said.

“Challenges such as reduced concentration during fasting hours and different work patterns can be overcome by providing flexibility in working hours, such as adopting flexible hours or remote work for some periods.” 

He highlighted the importance of “reducing burdens and focusing on priorities, and enhancing internal communication among employees.”


Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Mauritius on its independence day

Updated 13 March 2025
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Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Mauritius on its independence day

  • The Indian Ocean nation gained independence from the UK on March 12, 1968

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Wednesday congratulated President Dharambeer Gokhool of Mauritius on his country's Independence Day, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

In a cable, King Salman wished Gokhool continued good health and happiness, and the government and people of Mauritius steady progress and prosperity.

Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman sent a similar cable to the Indian Ocean republic's leader, wishing him and his people all the best.

Mauritius, a nation of 1.27 million people and located east of Madagascar off the African continent, was a colony of Great Britain until it won independence March 12, 1968. 
 

 


Recipe renaissance – traditional foods brighten Saudi iftar spreads with heritage

Updated 13 March 2025
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Recipe renaissance – traditional foods brighten Saudi iftar spreads with heritage

  • Arab News spoke to Saudis carrying the taste of family legacy forward during holy month

JEDDAH/RIYADH: Ramadan is helping revive traditional dishes in Saudi Arabia, as many families prepare foods distinctive to their region.

Tables across the Kingdom showcase great diversity during the holy month, with families passing down culinary traditions through generations.

The connection between Ramadan and these traditional dishes is rooted in customs, but their nutritional value also plays a key role. Often rich in energy-boosting ingredients such as meats and vegetables, they provide essential nutrients that replenish the body after a long day of fasting.

In the Northern Borders, al-khumei’ah is a well-known dish, while the Eastern Province is famous for its harees (slow-cooked wheat and meat soup), according to the Kingdom’s Culinary Arts Commission.

Riyadh’s signature dish is marqooq (thin dough with meat, onions, and spiced broth), whereas Qassim is known for its al-tawah pastry.

In Tabuk, al-mafroukah (dough with dates, honey, and butter) is a popular choice, while Jazan is renowned for makshan fish, cooked with onions and spices.

Hail offers al-baseesa (dough balls with date paste), and Asir is known for tasabee’ (a flour, milk and sugar mix).

Najran features al-wafd and al-maraq (dough balls), while Makkah is recognized for its red barley soup. In Madinah, sobiyah is a well-loved traditional drink made from barley or oats.

Al-Baha is known for its maraqa bread, while Jouf specializes in saj bread, an unleavened flatbread. 

Young people are being drawn to traditional foods through social media.

“Living in this era where everyone’s trying to keep up with trends and compete on ‘who did it better’ along with the culture of sharing photos is a big motivation. But I can’t deny that nostalgia and emotional connection also play an important role,” said Maryam Al-Oufi.

Loza Al-Mahdi and Eman Al-Hussaini, a mother and daughter from western Saudi Arabia, believe these dishes represent important memories.

“No matter how many new recipes we try, traditional dishes have a special place because they hold childhood memories and connect us to the past.”

One staple that remains a must-have during Ramadan is maamoul, a date-filled pastry that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance.

Al-Mahdi said: “No Ramadan is complete without making maamoul. It’s something that brings the whole family together.”

Platforms like TikTok and X have made it easier to share and preserve traditional recipes. “Sharing recipes on TikTok or even posting pictures of dishes on X really helps with that,” Al-Oufi explained. 

“When we see cool photos and videos, it gets us excited to try those dishes again and bring back recipes that had faded away.”

For many, Ramadan cooking is about familial legacy. “Families have the choice of continuing the tradition and passing it on to future generations or just burying it,” Al-Oufi stated.

Al-Mahdi emphasized the importance of hands-on learning: “I make sure to teach my children how to cook properly, just as I learned from my mother and grandmother.”

For some, certain dishes hold deep sentimental value. Al-Oufi recalls her grandmother’s attention to detail: “My grandma was very picky about food, especially when it came to the size and shape of the luqaimat. My grandma passed away, but her rules stayed with us.”

Similarly, Al-Hussaini shares a dish that remains close to her heart: “One of the most important dishes I have to make during Ramadan, and my kids love, is jaib al-tajir (merchant’s pocket).”

The Culinary Arts Commission has played a significant role in preserving traditional dishes by organizing a number of events and festivals that highlight Saudi heritage cuisine.

It has also documented preparation methods and cultural traditions, supported entrepreneurs, and published books and videos, helping to inspire interest in traditional foods.

Traditional markets and restaurants also play a major role in preserving these dishes, offering visitors the opportunity to experience authentic flavors and promoting traditional food culture across generations.

The Culinary Arts Commission promotes heritage foods during Ramadan by sharing special content on social media and its website.

This includes highlighting traditional Ramadan dishes, their preparation methods, historical origins, and cultural significance.

By sharing this knowledge, the commission encourages the community to appreciate and preserve Saudi culinary heritage during Ramadan.


Saudi joint forces chief receives UAE counterpart and delegation

Updated 13 March 2025
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Saudi joint forces chief receives UAE counterpart and delegation

Saudi Arabia’s Commander of the Joint Forces Lt. Gen. Fahd bin Hamad Al-Salman received Deputy Commander of the UAE Joint Operations Maj. Gen. Awad Saeed Al-Ahbabi and his accompanying delegation at the Armed Forces Officers Club in Riyadh on Wednesday.

During the meeting, they discussed various aspects of cooperation between the two sides, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Al-Ahbabi expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality and stressed the importance of joint coordination between the Saudi and Emirati sides for the benefit of the two countries.