US-based edtech leader DataCamp has announced its acquisition of Optima, a UAE-based AI-native learning platform, marking its first major expansion into the Middle East. The deal will see Optima’s founder and CEO, Yusuf Saber, appointed as DataCamp’s Chief AI Officer, leading the company’s global AI operations from the UAE.
Founded in 2021 by Saber, Optima develops adaptive learning technology that personalises lessons, pacing, and feedback for each learner in real-time, focusing on critical data and AI skills for enterprises and individuals.
UAE Founder to Lead Global AI Strategy
As part of the acquisition, the entire Optima team will join DataCamp. Yusuf Saber’s new role as Chief AI Officer places a UAE-based founder at the helm of the global AI strategy for a company with 18 million learners worldwide.
“Optima was built in the UAE to embed intelligence directly into the learning experience, so we can intuitively adjust each lesson to who a learner is and what they already know, and equip them to succeed in the global AI economy. From our first conversation with the DataCamp team, it was clear how much our visions aligned,” said Saber. “By bringing Optima’s AI-native learning experience into DataCamp’s global platform, and by creating free access for government employees, educators, and students, we have an opportunity to set a new standard for how people in the country learn online.”
Boosting UAE’s National AI Ambitions
The acquisition directly supports the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, which aims to position the nation as a global leader in AI by fostering local talent.
To accelerate this mission, DataCamp will launch its “DataCamp Classrooms” initiative in the UAE, providing educators and students with free access to a library of over 500 courses in Python, SQL, Machine Learning, and more. Additionally, all UAE government employees and students will receive six months of free access to DataCamp’s popular “Intro to AI” course.
The combined platforms are already utilized by prominent Middle Eastern companies, including Talabat, Careem, and ADQ, to advance their workforce’s data and AI capabilities.
Integrating AI-Native Learning
Optima’s adaptive technology is already being integrated into DataCamp’s curriculum, with its AI-native experience available in many of the platform’s top courses for premium subscribers. A full integration across the platform is expected over the next six months.
“DataCamp is turning the page on an era of online learning defined by static and generic content,” said Jonathan Cornellisen, co-founder and CEO of DataCamp. “The field of data and AI is evolving faster than ever, and DataCamp is focusing on dynamic, human-centred learning to help people and organisations thrive amid upheaval. With the Optima team now part of DataCamp, we’ve never been better placed to redefine how organizations move their people along the learning curve.”
About DataCamp
Founded in 2013, DataCamp is a leading online learning platform for data and AI skill building. It serves over 18 million learners and 6,000 organisations, including 80% of the Fortune 1000. The company is cashflow positive and expects to surpass $100 million in annualised recurring revenue before the end of 2026.
About Optima
Founded in the UAE in 2021, Optima is an AI-native learning platform designed to teach data and AI skills. Its technology creates a personalised learning experience by adjusting lesson pacing, concept explanations, and feedback in real-time for each user.
Source: Wamda
