King Abdulaziz University represented by the College of Computing and Information
Technology (FCIT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the
Saudi Data & Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) during the International
Conference on Data & AI Capacity Building (ICAN). This step reflects both parties’
commitment to strengthening national collaboration in the fields of data and artificial
intelligence and supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

The MoU aims to establish a strategic framework for cooperation that contributes to
the development of high-quality academic and training programs, capacity building,
and the enhancement of applied research and innovation, in line with labor market
needs and the advancement of digital transformation and the knowledge economy.

Within this framework, a number of specialized academic programs in the fields of
artificial intelligence and data science will be launched. These programs will be
implemented through the College of Computing and Information Technology and
include:
 A Minor in Artificial Intelligence for undergraduate students, designed to equip
students from various disciplines with foundational knowledge, applied skills, and
ethical perspectives in AI.
 Bachelor of Science in Data Science, an interdisciplinary program focused on
building competencies in data analysis, machine learning, and data-driven
decision-making.
 Executive Master’s in Data Science, targeting professionals and leaders to qualify
them to design and implement data science solutions in diverse business
environments.

This partnership is expected to yield several strategic outcomes, most notably:
 Launching joint academic and professional programs in data and artificial
intelligence.
 Implementing training programs and specialized bootcamps to build national
capabilities.
 Aligning educational outcomes with labor market needs and future jobs.
 Supporting the ecosystem of applied research and innovation in data and AI.
 Contributing to strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a leading global hub in
data and artificial intelligence.

These programs and initiatives will contribute to preparing qualified national talents
capable of leveraging data and AI across vital sectors, enhancing human capital
readiness, supporting national capacity-building goals, and boosting the
competitiveness of the Kingdom’s digital economy.

The signing of this MoU during the International Conference on Data & AI Capacity
Building (ICAN) underscores the role of King Abdulaziz University and SDAIA in
supporting national efforts to build capabilities, strengthen strategic partnerships, and
empower human capital, in line with the Kingdom’s aspirations toward a sustainable,
knowledge-based digital economy.