AI in education has been integrated across general schools in Saudi Arabia over the past two years. Consequently, the subject is now mandatory for students, supported by teacher training and national evaluation frameworks. International reports from the World Bank and other organizations highlighted these developments, using data from the Education and Training Evaluation Commission (ETEC) and the Ministry of Education.
Strategic Pillars of the Program
The technological shift is guided by the Human Capability Development Program, which is an initiative under Saudi Vision 2030. Specifically, this program operates through four main pillars that focus on national identity, foundational skills, labor market readiness, and entrepreneurship. During a government press conference in August 2025, the Minister of Education, Yousef Al-Benyan, stated that the ministry achieved more than 19 strategic objectives.
Implementing AI in Education
The new curriculum benefits more than six million students across all levels of general education. Initially, the curriculum builds awareness of safe and ethical digital practices before teaching students to build simple systems. This progressive approach ensures that students acquire practical skills in a structured manner.
Teacher Training and Digital Tools
To support this curriculum, more than 13,000 teachers received specialized training in artificial intelligence over the past year. Furthermore, more than 470,000 trainees used the National Institute for Educational Professional Development (NIEPD) platform. The Ministry of Education also provided teachers with the Maaeen Educational Platform for lesson planning and examinations.
In addition, teachers can access an assistant tool on the Madrasati Portal and a generative usage guide. This guide was developed in coordination with the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and the National eLearning Center. Meanwhile, ETEC has transitioned national assessments into a data-driven system, including the annual National Assessments for Schools (NAFS).
Academic Integration and Startups
Higher education institutions have also adopted these technologies. According to a 2025 report, 79% of Saudi universities have incorporated technology courses, and more than 30 universities made the subject mandatory. This widespread adoption demonstrates the growing importance of AI in education across the Kingdom.
Furthermore, partnerships with six international universities have helped incubate and train 80 digital startups in Saudi Arabia. These programs supported 60 university-based startups through accelerators, connecting them with 84 investment opportunities. Consequently, these initiatives help align academic outcomes with the broader economy.
Saudi students have also achieved international recognition, winning first place at the World Artificial Intelligence Competition for Youth (WAICY 2025) for two consecutive years. Additionally, Qassim University won first place at the WSIS Prizes 2026 in Switzerland for its QSpark platform. This platform uses advanced technology to deliver digital learning experiences.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
