Alfaisal University, Saudia Cargo sign AI partnership for logistics sector

Alfaisal University in Riyadh has signed a memorandum of understanding with Saudia Cargo to collaborate on academic and scientific research related to artificial intelligence and the logistics sector, as well as to develop curricula, student training programs, and professional development initiatives.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Khaled bin Manaa Al-Kattan, Vice President for Financial and Administrative Affairs and Dean of the College of Medicine at Alfaisal University, and Hashem Al-Sharif, Vice President for Strategy at Saudia Cargo.

During the signing, both parties discussed launching joint research programs involving university students, faculty, and staff in areas such as logistics operations and emerging technologies, including AI. They also agreed to develop curricula that equip students with skills needed in the private sector, and to implement short-term training programs for university students at the company’s headquarters through the Tamheer on-the-job training program or cooperative training.

The partnership will include specialized workshops and training programs on AI applications in logistics, participation in conferences, seminars, and scientific lectures, and support for innovative initiatives that contribute to developing logistics services. Saudia Cargo will also explore opportunities to develop its employees through academic, training, and professional development programs offered by the university.

The MoU builds on Alfaisal University’s progress in artificial intelligence, with its College of Engineering and Advanced Computing offering a bachelor’s program in AI that includes summer workplace training, and a master’s program in applied AI covering machine learning, data science, and AI systems. The university’s AI Center leads research and education in the field, while its AI Academy introduces pre-university students to the discipline through practical summer programs.

Dr. Khaled bin Manaa Al-Kattan said: "The logistics sector is central to the Kingdom’s ambitions under Vision 2030. Our partnership with Saudia Cargo connects Alfaisal University’s AI expertise—from undergraduate and graduate programs to scientific research—with one of the region’s leading air cargo companies, enabling our students and faculty to tackle real-world challenges in a nationally significant sector."

Al-Kattan added that training students alongside Saudia Cargo professionals and opening programs to company staff fosters two-way knowledge exchange, emphasizing the goal of developing national talent and supporting innovation and transformation in the logistics sector.

Hashem Al-Sharif said: "At Saudia Cargo, we fully recognize that integrating academic expertise with smart solutions and AI technologies serves the aspirations of the logistics sector. Together with Alfaisal University, we aim to launch joint research programs that meet labor market needs, while expanding opportunities for field training and professional development for students and staff. This will enhance air cargo efficiency and help develop national talent as a driving force for the future of logistics in the Kingdom."