ICAN 2026: Saudi Roadmap To Empower Youth In AI And Data

Late January will see the International Conference on Data and AI Capacity Building (ICAN 2026) gather specialists, experts, and decision-makers from more than 50 local and international entities. The event focuses on data and artificial intelligence, and aims to support human development, update labour market skills, and align education with fast global technological change.

ICAN 2026 is held under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA). The conference reflects national plans to expand data and AI capabilities and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position in technology-driven economies.

The Kingdom views data and AI as central to a historic transformation that supports people and institutions. Through ICAN 2026, Saudi Arabia seeks to participate with other nations using smart technologies to redesign work patterns, build human capacities for future jobs, and help workers adapt to changing tools and digital practices across sectors.

Global projections highlighted for ICAN 2026 indicate rising demand for advanced skills linked to AI in many professions. These include AI and big data, networks and cybersecurity, technical literacy, creative and analytical thinking, and design and user experience. The conference addresses how these skills can shape labour markets and national development agendas in coming years.

Education is a central theme at ICAN 2026, with discussions on how AI developments influence learning paths and qualifications. Young people gain insight into the future of study programmes and employment prospects, and how AI tools might be applied in universities, training institutions, and professional environments to improve performance and support continuous learning.

The conference also offers a forum for leading global technology companies, international organisations, academics, and wider stakeholders interested in data and AI. Participants will explore recent advances in artificial intelligence and data applications, and examine how these technologies can be directed towards benefits for societies, while supporting aspirations of current and future generations in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

With inputs from SPA