Saudi Arabia is embedding artificial intelligence (AI) literacy into its national strategy to bolster economic growth and workforce skills, aligning with its Vision 2030 goals. According to a new report by Coursera, the Kingdom's approach links AI literacy directly to national competitiveness, setting it apart from other regions where talent development and policymaking often operate independently.

The National Strategy for Data and AI (NSDAI) is a cornerstone of this initiative, aiming to develop large-scale AI and digital skills. Coursera’s General Manager for the Middle East and Africa, Kais Zribi, emphasised the importance of a workforce equipped with AI skills, stating, “Successful AI adoption is fundamentally dependent on having a workforce equipped with the skills to use these technologies responsibly.”

Saudi Arabia's national AI curriculum, launched in 2025, is already reaching six million students, focusing on responsible use of Generative AI. Additionally, the SAMAI initiative by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) aims to train one million Saudis, with over half a million already enrolled.

The report highlights the need for organisations to integrate regulatory requirements into AI systems from the outset, rather than post-deployment. It recommends aligning AI training with Saudisation goals to strengthen government relations and support local expertise development.

As Saudi Arabia continues to implement its AI strategy, organisations that fail to invest in AI literacy may face challenges in compliance readiness and competitiveness. The report outlines nine best practices for building an AI-literate workforce, emphasising the importance of continuous learning as technologies and regulations evolve

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