How Google aims to bridge the AI skills gap in Saudi Arabia and the wider region

Google’s largest AI project in the region, the AI Opportunity Initiative will focus on AI skills development, research, products, and infrastructure. (Supplied)
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Updated 08 November 2024
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How Google aims to bridge the AI skills gap in Saudi Arabia and the wider region

  • Backed by local partners, Google will boost AI upskilling for women, youth, migrants, and rural communities
  • The AI Opportunity Initiative aims to equip half a million people across the MENA region with AI skills

DUBAI: As artificial intelligence rapidly reshapes industries, job roles and skill requirements, the Middle East and North Africa region is actively embracing advanced technologies and collaborating with tech giants to bridge the skills gap in an evolving labor market.

One such collaboration is with Google’s newly launched AI Opportunity Initiative, which offers training and education opportunities to make AI technologies more accessible and inclusive across the region.

By collaborating with local organizations, the AI Opportunity Initiative seeks to “train half a million people in the next two years,” Anthony Nakache, managing director of Google MENA, told an audience at the recent AI Connect MENA event at Dubai’s Etihad Museum.

To achieve this, Google “will give a grant of $15 million to fund local organizations,” Nakache said.

Najeeb Jarrar, regional director of marketing at Google MENA, told Arab News: “We are very excited about this AI Opportunity Initiative, especially since we are seeing the Saudi community is fully embracing AI both on the consumer side and on the developer and resource side.

“This is an initiative that we have launched globally and we now are bringing to the region. One of the aims of this initiative is how we are leveling the playing field for AI and AI education and skilling across the entire region,” he added, noting that students will learn to use AI more productively, including skills such as prompt engineering.

To bridge the digital divide in the labor market, Google’s AI Opportunity Initiative aims to upskill underserved workers in AI by offering tailored training materials in Arabic, in partnership with the non-profit Manarat, online course provider Coursera, and other organizations.

Google’s largest AI project in the region, the AI Opportunity Initiative will focus on four key areas: AI skills development, research, products, and infrastructure.

DID YOUKNOW?

• The new AI Opportunity Initiative is Google’s largest AI project in the region.

• It aims to equip 500,000 people in the MENA region with AI skills within two years.

• Google is granting $15 million to local organizations between 2024 and 2027.

• The Saudi government is reportedly creating a $40 billion fund to invest in AI.

“We also worked with local NGOs and local players in the market to ensure that we are also reaching out to different partners,” Jarrar said.

Google.org, Google’s philanthropic arm, has announced plans to contribute $15 million between this year and the end of 2027, providing funding to organizations across the region to ensure accessibility to AI opportunities.

The AI Opportunity Initiative also aims to equip 500,000 people in the MENA region with AI skills in the first two years. This includes students, academics, developers, entrepreneurs and underrepresented groups.

Speaking about the issue of accessibility, Jarrar said: “We wanted to ensure first that this local initiative does not feel like an initiative that is hard to get for the average user.”




Google’s largest AI project in the region, the AI Opportunity Initiative will focus on AI skills development, research, products, and infrastructure. (Supplied)

He pointed out that both language and local partners, such as Injaz and Raspberry Pi Foundation, play a major role in improving accessibility.

“The content is all in Arabic, we have local examples that we are actually able to showcase,” he said. “We are partnering with local partners that know the market and the community very well and are able to reach more people that are beyond what we can initially reach to.”

The AI Opportunity Initiative enables Google to expand the Maharat min Google program, which targets high school and university students, by introducing a new AI curriculum in Arabic.

As part of its mission to support underserved communities, Google.org is funding Village Capital, a non-profit that supports entrepreneurs tackling environmental, social and economic challenges.

Village Capital will equip business support organizations to offer AI upskilling opportunities to underserved workers. 

The program targets women, youth, migrants and rural communities across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, Lebanon, Bahrain and Iraq. 

The Raspberry Pi Foundation will use grant funding from Google.org to train teachers in AI literacy, equipping students aged 11-14 in the region with AI safety skills to better understand and navigate the challenges of AI technologies.

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Speaking at the Google AI Connect Event, Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer for Alphabet and Google, said: “AI is estimated to contribute $320 billion in economic growth for the Middle East by 2030.

“Google is working to ensure that people and communities throughout the region have the skills needed to capture the upside of this emerging technology.” 

She added: “Our local non-profit and university partners will help bring this program to people and communities throughout the region, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the opportunities that AI can deliver.”




 Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer for Alphabet and Google, speaking at the Google AI Connect event. (Photo courtesy of Google)

Since 2005, Google has invested more than $400 million in academic research globally.

The tech giant also announced during its Dubai event the launch of new Arabic AI products, including Gemini Live in Arabic, Gemini for Teens, Imagen3, and Gems on Gemini in Arabic. 

“For the previous year, we have worked hard with partners, with experts globally and from the region, to understand what are the constraints that we need to implement to make this product safer for teens, teens aged 13 to 18,” Jarrar said.

“We worked tirelessly to make sure we have the right guardrails to ensure that we had the right controls and the proper Q and A and testing, and today we are happy to say that Gemini for Teens is available for users and teens here in the region.”

These efforts are expected to support Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become an AI leader, ensuring its population stays aligned with the latest developments in the labor market.

A September report by the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence showed that 75 percent of the Saudi population is familiar with the concept of AI, and 64 percent are aware of its applications.
 

 


Saudi Arabia is preparing young footballers for World Cup 2034 squad, says federation president

Updated 52 min 5 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia is preparing young footballers for World Cup 2034 squad, says federation president

  • Contests for athletes under 6 being planned, says Yasser Al-Misehal
  • Aspiring Green Falcons players must ‘care’ about training, discipline

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is preparing young footballers for the nation’s 2034 World Cup squad, according to the president of the Kingdom’s football association.

Answering a question from Arab News at a press conference on Wednesday following the announcement of the Kingdom as host, Saudi Arabian Football Federation President Yasser Al-Misehal highlighted the nation’s preparations for the 2034 Green Falcons side.

“My message to them that the dream we all had, to witness the World Cup in our country, has become a reality.

“My message to them is to be disciplined, to care about training, to care about all aspects of life, and we will hopefully see them in green in 2034 representing the team of the dearest country and achieving results that make us all proud as Saudis.”

In addition to under-17 tournaments, Al-Misehal said competitions are being held for under-11 players, and by 2027 for those under 6 years of age.

There are already several Saudi Arabia national team members playing for European clubs, including Saud Abdulhamid for Roma and Faisal Al-Ghamdi and Marwan Al-Sahafi for the Belgian team Beerschot.

Al-Misehal also spoke about the responsibility to deliver a successful event for the Kingdom’s football-loving population. “Today we are talking about more than 60 percent of the Saudi population being under 30 years old.

“A population that adores football … more than 80 percent of Saudis watch football daily. This places a great responsibility on us to present an edition that is suited to the ambitions of these audiences,” he said.

Al-Misehal added that the Kingdom had the support of more than 140 countries after announcing its intention to bid in October 2023.

“You feel the awe of the name of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. You feel hundreds of messages pouring in … from all over the world, congratulating the Kingdom … it is a proud feeling,” he said.

It has not yet been decided if the World Cup will be held in summer or winter. Al-Misehal said discussions with FIFA would hopefully be settled next year, but that “we are ready anywhere and at any time.”

Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, who is also president of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, said the Kingdom’s 18-section bid file had been six years in the making, with weekly meetings keeping track of every detail.

The country’s submission was uncontested after Australia dropped out of the running, but nonetheless received the highest-ever rating from FIFA.

“It’s an indescribable feeling, for us and for anyone, it is a dream to host the biggest event in the world, not just in sports,” Prince Abdulaziz said.

“This is indicative of the care of our wise leadership on this matter, on our athletes, and on developing sports in the Kingdom, as well as the determination of Saudi youth working in the Ministry of Sports, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, the World Cup bid unit. I thank you.”

“We promise everyone that the work will continue,” Prince Abdulaziz added, referring to developments taking place in transport and tourism.

King Salman reportedly said: “Through its people’s determination and spirit the Kingdom has succeeded in consolidating its position as one of the most prominent international sports destinations.”

Saudi Arabia intends to make history as the first single country to host a 48-team tournament.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in a statement: “We look forward to hosting an exceptional and unprecedented edition of the FIFA World Cup by harnessing our strengths and capabilities to bring joy to football fans around the world.”

Celebrations broke out across the Kingdom on Wednesday evening as the news broke.

The tournament’s 15 stadiums are in Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, Alkhobar and NEOM.


Saudi Arabia lights up after being named as host for FIFA World Cup 2034

Updated 12 December 2024
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Saudi Arabia lights up after being named as host for FIFA World Cup 2034

  • Dazzling firework displays reflected the spirit of unity and excitement surrounding the country’s historic achievement
  • In celebration, dynamic drone shows are to captivate audiences in Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar, and Abha

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is celebrating being chosen as host of the FIFA World Cup 2034 with a series of events across the country.

The football-themed festivities, which run until Dec. 14, invite citizens and residents to showcase their national pride by wearing football jerseys and sharing their moments on social media using the hashtag #Saudi2034.

Fireworks illuminated the skies of Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar, Abha, NEOM, Al-Qassim, and Jubail at 8:34 p.m. on Wednesday, after the official announcement from an online ceremony that was broadcast at a Riyadh event attended by Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal and other officials.

The dazzling displays reflected the spirit of unity and excitement surrounding the country’s historic achievement.

In celebration, dynamic drone shows are to captivate audiences in Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar, and Abha.

There will also be an air show in Riyadh on Dec. 12 over the skies of King Abdullah Financial District, King Fahd Stadium, and King Fahd Road.

Riyadh’s municipality handed out scarves to football fans in Tahlia Street, Takhassusi Street, and Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Road, and organized events with traditional dances at various urban parks.

A number of institutions held watch parties at the time of the announcement ceremony, including the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

Parks and buildings were adorned with Saudi flags, while public spaces in a number of cities and regions were bathed in green light to mark the occasion.

A series of public gatherings will take place until Dec. 14 between 5:15 p.m. and 11 p.m. at Boulevard City, Laysen Valley, Roshn Front, and Bujairi Terrace in Riyadh; and the Corniche Circuit, Roshn Waterfront, Corniche Obhur, Prince Majid Park, King Abdulaziz Cultural Center, and the Municipality Building in Jeddah.

Elsewhere, celebrations will take place at the Corniche, Half Moon Beach, Tharwa Corniche, and King Abdullah Park in Alkhobar; and Beach District Plaza Al-Baha Mall, Al-Hawiya Walk, Boulevard, and the Winter Festival in Al-Baha; in Buraydah at Bukhari Street; and in Abha at Al-Bahar Square, Art Street, Veranda, Ariash, High City, and Midmac.

Hail will host gatherings on Dec. 13 from 5:15 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Al Fajr Walkway and Bahjah Park.

These activities offer football fans an opportunity to come together and share in the joyful atmosphere.


Saudi crown prince, Iraqi PM discuss regional developments during call 

Updated 12 December 2024
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Saudi crown prince, Iraqi PM discuss regional developments during call 

  • The call also tackled ways to enhance bilateral relations in all fields

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a phone call from Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Sudani, the Saudi Press Agency said early Thursday.

The pair discussed the latest regional developments and efforts aimed at achieving security and stability.

The call also tackled ways to enhance bilateral relations in all fields. 


Crown Prince congratulates King Salman on Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host World Cup 2034

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulated King Salman on Saudi Arabia’s successful FIFA World Cup 2034 bid. (File/SPA)
Updated 12 December 2024
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Crown Prince congratulates King Salman on Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host World Cup 2034

  • The Crown Prince confirmed Saudi Arabia’s strong commitment to contribute to the development of football worldwide
  • Later on Wednesday, Prince Mohammed announced the establishment of the “Supreme Authority for Hosting the 2034 World Cup”

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulated King Salman, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, on Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034.

The Crown Prince confirmed Saudi Arabia’s strong commitment to contribute to the development of football sport worldwide and promoting messages of love, peace and tolerance.

He highlighted the Kingdom’s significant capabilities, the enthusiasm of the Saudi people, and their ability to overcome challenges, which ultimately led to their successful bid to host the World Cup 2034, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

On Wednesday, FIFA announced that Saudi Arabia will host the international football tournament in 2034.

Later on Wednesday, the crown prince announced the establishment of the “Supreme Authority for Hosting the 2034 World Cup.”

Setting up the authority showed the Kingdom’s determination to present an exceptional version of the tournament, SPA said.

Saudi Arabia became the first country in FIFA’s history to solely host the expanded format of the World Cup with 48 teams, featuring 16 additional football teams for the first time since Qatar’s World Cup 2022, SPA reported.

The US, Mexico and Canada will host the expanded format of World Cup 2026, while the 2030 event is set to take place in Morocco, Spain and Portugal.

In July, Saudi Arabia officially submitted its bid to host the World Cup 2034 under the slogan “Growing Together.”

The Kingdom will host the football matches in 15 stadiums across five cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Al-Khobar, Abha and Neom.

It also plans to host entertainment activities for World Cup fans in 10 sites, including King Salman Park and the Jeddah Waterfront Park.


Saudi Islamic affairs minister receives Maldives envoy in Riyadh

Updated 11 December 2024
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Saudi Islamic affairs minister receives Maldives envoy in Riyadh

Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Abdullatif Al-Asheikh received Ambassador of Maldives to the Kingdom Ahmed Sareer in Riyadh on Wednesday.

Al-Asheikh focused on the Kingdom’s efforts in serving Islam and Muslims, spreading the values of tolerance and moderation and combating extremism in all its forms, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ambassador praised Saudi Arabia’s commitment to catering to the needs of pilgrims and visitors to the Two Holy Mosques.