The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and Snap Inc. have launched a digital innovation ecosystem during LEAP 2026 in Riyadh to train more than 20,000 national talents with digital capabilities by 2030. The agreement establishes a long-term collaboration framework with the Saudi Digital Academy serving as the executive partner.
Three Pillars of the Strategic Partnership
The initiative operates through three dedicated divisions: the Center of Excellence for talent development, the Innovation Center for digital enablement, and the Digital Sustainability Initiative. These programs deliver specialized coursework in digital marketing, augmented reality, spatial computing, and online safety practices across the country.
Saudi Arabia represents one of Snap’s largest global markets, with more than 26 million monthly active Snapchat users. Consequently, the collaboration utilizes this local footprint to deliver practical skills across content creation, advertising performance, and immersive technologies.
Specialized Training at the Center of Excellence
Under the Center of Excellence, the parties introduced several structured paths for university students, recent graduates, and industry professionals. The Snap Digital Academy offers in-person Arabic-language instruction covering digital campaign management and performance measurement, culminating in professional certification.
Additionally, the Snap Virtual Lens Challenge provides self-paced learning and live workshops on augmented reality design using Lens Studio. Meanwhile, the Snap Graduate Program offers practical work experience, professional mentorship, and employment pathways within Snap and its broader partner network.
Expanding the Digital Innovation Ecosystem
Through the Innovation Center, the partnership supports local entrepreneurs through initiatives such as the Saudi Digital Success Stories on Snap program. Furthermore, the Digital Sustainability Initiative conducts school-based awareness sessions to teach students responsible usage practices on modern communication platforms.
Executive Perspectives on Digital Capability
“Our partnership with MCIT reflects Snap’s long-term commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s digital transformation journey and investing in national talent. We believe that digital innovation begins with empowering people and equipping young individuals with the practical skills and experiences they need to seize opportunities in emerging digital sectors.”
Abdulla Alhammadi, Managing Director – KSA, Snapchat
The Ministry underscored the importance of developing local skills aligned with global industry shifts to strengthen the domestic knowledge base.
“This partnership builds on the Kingdom’s strategy to develop national capabilities, strengthen skills that support the creative economy and digital content industry, and link them to emerging opportunities in the global digital economy.”
Mohammed Al-Robayan, Deputy Minister for Future Jobs and Capabilities, MCIT
Together, both entities continue developing the digital innovation ecosystem to align national workforce capabilities with the long-term goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and support sustainable expansion in the digital economy.
