SDAIA opens registration for AI professional badges in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) announced on Tuesday the opening of registration for 'AI Professional Badges' in the Kingdom. The initiative was first launched earlier this year during the International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Data Capacity Building (ICAN 2026).

This move reflects SDAIA’s commitment to establishing a national framework for evaluating data and AI specialists, serving as the national reference for the development, management, and regulation of advanced technologies. The badges are granted according to scientific and practical standards that align with leading international benchmarks.

In this phase, the program covers two key specializations at the core of data and AI technologies: 'AI Engineer,' which focuses on practical skills in developing AI models and systems, and 'Data Scientist,' which centers on building algorithms and analytical capabilities to extract insights from data.

SDAIA explained that applicants will undergo a standardized evaluation framework consisting of three progressive levels. The process is overseen by an independent scientific committee comprising leading researchers, academics, and experts from both the public and private sectors, ensuring accurate and objective assessment of scientific competence, analytical and practical skills, and tangible impact.

Through this initiative, SDAIA aims to empower national human capital and provide various sectors with a reliable benchmark for achieving the highest qualification standards. This supports the regulatory environment for AI and advances the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence, positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in this vital sector.