Saudi Arabia’s Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has tested more than 150 candidates for its AI Professional Badges, drawing applicants from government and private-sector organisations, universities, research centres and technology companies.
Launched in early 2026, the programme certifies two tracks, AI Engineer and Data Scientist, across three proficiency levels: Assistant, Associate and Expert. Candidates must pass exams assessing their practical experience, technical knowledge and skills under a standardised framework aligned with international models.
SDAIA has already awarded badges to 52 specialists at the UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI in Riyadh earlier this month. The credentials are intended to give Saudi employers a consistent, government-backed benchmark for identifying and hiring AI and data professionals.
The programme was announced at the International Conference on Data and AI Capacity Building at King Saud University. It is being developed with Saudi digital solutions company elm, King Saud University and the Human Capability Development Program, and forms part of SDAIA’s efforts to support the National Strategy for Data and AI.
Source: Middle East AI News
