In a decisive step toward future-proofing its youth and economy, Saudi Arabia is launching a nationwide artificial intelligence (AI) curriculum for general education students in the 2025–2026 academic year. More than six million students will engage with AI studies for the first time — a move that reflects the Kingdom’s broader vision to integrate emerging technologies into education and national development.
A multi agency initiative to reshape education
The development and rollout of the new AI curriculum is the result of a strategic partnership involving multiple government bodies. The National Centre for Curriculum, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) have jointly crafted the program.This curriculum is not just a new subject added to textbooks; it marks the first significant shift toward a differentiated and future-oriented educational framework in Saudi schools. It is tailored to help students grasp the foundational and practical aspects of AI, preparing them from an early age to navigate and shape a technology-driven world.
Aligning with vision 2030 : Education as a tool for national transformation
The introduction of AI education at the school level is directly aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s blueprint for economic diversification and societal advancement. One of the key pillars of this vision is building a knowledge-based society supported by skilled human capital.Through this curriculum, students will be encouraged to:
- Understand how AI can solve real-world problems.
- Develop solutions using AI technologies in everyday scenarios.
- Nurture creativity, analytical thinking, and innovation.
- Prepare for higher studies and careers in AI, a field poised to dominate future job markets.
The ultimate goal is to cultivate a generation that can compete globally in technology and innovation, enabling sustainable development and enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a leader in data and AI.
Nationwide frameworks and training for educators and learners
To ensure that AI education is ethical, effective, and globally relevant, several complementary initiatives are underway:
- AI Education Guide: The Ministry of Education and SDAIA have jointly issued a comprehensive guide for the responsible use of generative AI in classrooms. It promotes AI as a tool to support — not replace — educators, ensuring that learning remains teacher-centered and values-based.
- Saudi Academic Framework for AI Qualifications (Education Intelligence): Created by SDAIA and the Education and Training Evaluation Commission, this framework standardizes academic AI programs across institutions. It ensures that graduates’ qualifications align with global expectations and industry needs, increasing employer confidence in their competencies.
- SAMAI Initiative: In collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, SDAIA has launched the SAMAI initiative to boost national AI literacy. The program aims to equip one million Saudis with essential AI knowledge and skills. So far, over 500,000 individuals from various age groups and professional backgrounds have registered.
Advanced learning opportunities and global exposure
In addition to school-level reforms, Saudi Arabia is investing in high-level AI training and international academic exposure:
AI Scholarship Program : Through a partnership between SDAIA, the Ministry of Education, and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program, the Kingdom is sponsoring talented students to pursue AI and data science degrees at top global universities. The program is designed to prepare future Saudi leaders in cutting-edge technologies.Generative AI Academy : SDAIA, in collaboration with tech giant NVIDIA, has launched the Generative AI Academy to nurture local talent capable of innovating in frontier tech areas. This academy functions under the umbrella of the broader SDAIA Academy, a national platform focused on building AI leadership and strengthening Saudi Arabia’s international standing in advanced technologies.
