Saudi Arabia launches SAMAI 2 workforce AI initiative to expand artificial intelligence skills across the government sector. The programme was announced in Riyadh during the International Conference on Data and AI Capacity Building (ICAN 2026). The launch was presented by the Saudi Minister of Education and the President of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA). The initiative focuses on preparing public sector employees for AI adoption.
Saudi Arabia Launches SAMAI 2 Workforce AI Initiative for Government Employees
The SAMAI 2 programme is designed specifically for the government workforce. It targets civil servants working in strategic ministries. The initiative provides AI training, awareness programmes, and capacity-building activities. These efforts aim to help employees understand and apply artificial intelligence tools in their daily work. The programme builds on earlier national AI education efforts.
Expansion of the Original SAMAI Programme
Saudi Arabia launches SAMAI 2 workforce AI initiative as a continuation of the original SAMAI programme. The first SAMAI initiative trained and certified more than 1.1 million Saudi citizens in 2025. That earlier version focused on general AI literacy for the public. SAMAI 2 shifts the focus toward professional and operational AI use within government institutions.
Ministries Participating in SAMAI 2
A total of 11 government ministries are included in the SAMAI 2 workforce AI initiative. These ministries are health, finance, media, justice, industry and mineral resources, transport and logistics, education, human resources and social development, municipalities and housing, sport, and energy. Each ministry will integrate AI training based on its operational needs.
Oversight and Implementation
Saudi Arabia launches SAMAI 2 workforce AI initiative under the supervision of SDAIA. The authority was established by Royal Order and operates with legal and operational independence. SDAIA is responsible for national AI and data strategy. The initiative supports broader goals related to digital transformation and workforce readiness. It aligns with Saudi Arabia’s long-term plans to build AI capacity across public institutions.
Source: https://www.middleeastainews.com/p/saudi-arabia-launches-samai-2-workforce