Riyadh: In late January, the International Conference on Data and AI Capacity Building (ICAN 2026) will convene, bringing together leading experts, specialists, and decision-makers from more than 50 local and international entities. The conference marks a pivotal moment as the Kingdom strives to advance human development and reshape the labor market through education and advanced technologies, in line with the rapid global progress in data and artificial intelligence (AI). Its aim is to build a future that embraces the aspirations of generations to come.
According to Saudi Press Agency, 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 Kingdom is advancing toward a historic transformation in data and AI technologies. This transformation positions the Kingdom among nations building a new future through smart technologies by fostering human development and supporting adaptation to these innovations, ensuring its rise to leadership within data- and AI-driven economies.
ICAN 2026 takes center stage locally and globally as an international platform reshaping the concept of work and building human capacities in line with future demands. This comes amid global projections of rising skill requirements across various professions due to AI, including AI and big data, networks and cybersecurity, technical literacy, creative and analytical thinking, and design and user experience.
The conference offers a valuable opportunity for leading global technology companies, international organizations, academics, and those interested in data and AI to explore the latest advances in harnessing AI technologies for the benefit of humanity. At the same time, it provides young people with a chance to understand the future of education and employment in light of AI developments, and how these can be applied in higher education and professional practices.