Saudi Arabia has achieved significant growth in **AI skills training** according to the latest data released by Coursera.
Specifically, the report highlights that 99 percent of employers in the Kingdom now use skills-based hiring for entry-level positions. This shift reflects a broader national movement toward competency-based recruitment models.
Furthermore, 79 percent of Saudi employers prefer candidates with verified generative artificial intelligence credentials over more experienced applicants. Consequently, students are responding to this demand by enrolling in specialized courses. Notably, there was a 300 percent year-over-year growth in students enrolling in generative AI courses.
The Impact of AI Skills Training on Employment
In addition, 92 percent of employers stated that entry-level hires with micro-credentials perform better during their first year. Meanwhile, Kais Zribi, Coursera’s general manager for the Middle East and Africa, commented on this transition.
Zribi stated that the shift toward a skills-based workforce is critical to achieving Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives. Furthermore, he noted that the findings point to an accelerating pace of transformation.
Enterprise Enrollment and National Initiatives
Enterprise GenAI enrollments in Saudi Arabia grew 312 percent year-over-year, highlighting the rapid adoption of **AI skills training** across businesses. To support this demand, the government has launched several coordinated programs.
For example, the SDAIA Academy trained more than one million citizens in data and AI skills through the SAMAI initiative.
Moreover, the National eLearning Center collaborated with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and Oracle to launch the “Mustaqbali” program. This initiative aims to train 50,000 Saudi citizens in digital technology. Meanwhile, Microsoft committed to helping three million people acquire AI skills in the Kingdom by 2030.
Global Rankings and Gender Representation
According to the Global AI Index, Saudi Arabia ranked fifth globally and first in the Arab world in artificial intelligence sector growth. Additionally, the Kingdom ranked third globally in the development of AI models and language model progress.
Notably, Saudi Arabia now has the highest female-to-male ratio in AI-related employment globally, reflecting national efforts to support women in technology.
Future Outlook for Digital Talents
As the Kingdom continues to expand its digital capabilities, the focus on **AI skills training** remains a priority. Consequently, public and private partnerships will continue to drive educational programs. These efforts ensure that the local workforce remains competitive in the global digital economy.
Source: X (@McitGovSa) — researched
