SDAIA launched SAMAI 2, a nationwide public sector capacity-building programme in partnership with 11 government ministries. The programme builds on SAMAI 1, which trained more than 1.2 million citizens, and targets workforce empowerment in specific government sectors to adopt AI technologies, increase productivity, and enhance workplace efficiency through specialised training and awareness programmes. The training covers both AI tool use and responsible AI practices. SDAIA has simultaneously signed memoranda of understanding with 14 public and private universities to establish frameworks for data and AI capability development among students and staff. A parallel Microsoft initiative aims to train a further three million Saudis in AI skills by 2030.
Who it affects: Public sector employees across 11 government ministries. The programme focuses on non-technical government workers, not only specialists. The broader skilling agenda targets all working citizens through partnerships with universities and technology companies.
What is notably missing: SAMAI 2 is a government-run public sector initiative, not a legal requirement on private employers. No law compels private companies to train their employees. The programme does not specify minimum training standards or create enforceable obligations for private sector employers. Ethics coverage is referenced but no syllabus or minimum standard is defined.