Riyadh hosted more than 300 university students, recent graduates, and job seekers at the Youth Forum 2026, held from August 9 to 12. The event focused on the role of artificial intelligence in equipping youth with future skills and preparing them for upcoming job opportunities.
According to SPA, the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) participated as a success partner in the forum during International Youth Day. The participation coincided with the Year of Artificial Intelligence 2026, which was highlighted across the forum’s platforms and materials.
Dr. Mohammed Kutbi, advisor to the CEO for the Capacity Building Sector at SDAIA, led a workshop titled AI and Youth Empowerment: Future Skills and Preparing for Tomorrow’s Jobs. The session addressed shifts in the labor market caused by AI and the necessity of qualifying youth with AI tools to enhance their readiness for future roles.
A second workshop, presented by Tawakkalna senior software engineer Abdulaziz Yahya Al-Ati, focused on AI and the Future of Digital Services. This session showcased practical applications of AI in digital services and reviewed the Tawakkalna experience in improving government service efficiency and quality of life for beneficiaries.
SDAIA stated that these efforts aim to build national capabilities in data and AI while increasing awareness of advanced technologies among youth to keep pace with labor market transformations.
Who participated in the Youth Forum 2026 and when did it take place? The Youth Forum 2026 took place from August 9 to 12 and saw the participation and attendance of more than 300 individuals. This group included university students, recent graduates, and researchers seeking employment opportunities.
What were the main topics of the workshops presented by SDAIA? SDAIA presented two workshops: one titled AI and Youth Empowerment: Future Skills and Preparing for Tomorrow’s Jobs, and another titled AI and the Future of Digital Services. These sessions covered labor market shifts, the need for AI tool qualification, and practical AI applications in digital services.
How was the Tawakkalna experience utilized during the forum? Senior software engineer Abdulaziz Yahya Al-Ati presented the Tawakkalna experience to demonstrate how digital services are developed using AI. The presentation highlighted the role of these services in increasing the efficiency of government services and improving the quality of life for users.