University Hosts the International Conference on Capacity Building in Data and Artificial Intelligence (ICAN 2026)
Experts from more than 50 international and local organizations specializing in education, employment, and artificial intelligence will discuss the future of education and its development in light of the rapid global advancement of AI technologies. The discussions will also address the impact of these technologies on the labor market, their implications for current and future generations, and the new opportunities they create.
These topics will be explored during the International Conference on Capacity Building in Data and Artificial Intelligence (ICAN 2026), which will be held on January 28–29, 2026, at King Saud University in Riyadh.
The significance of ICAN 2026 lies in its focus on redefining the concept of work and building human capacities in alignment with future requirements. The conference will present practical solutions to empower young men and women with AI capabilities, shape AI and technology-enabled education, and align learning outcomes with the most in-demand future skills locally and globally. It will also highlight emerging career pathways in data and artificial intelligence and explore mechanisms for supporting the workforce through AI technologies, transforming AI from a potential threat to jobs into a genuine opportunity for growth and innovation.
The conference represents a valuable opportunity for academics, professionals interested in data and AI technologies, and university students to explore the latest advancements in leveraging artificial intelligence to serve humanity and enhance national capabilities. Registration for the conference is available via the following link:
Organized by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), the conference is held in academic partnership with King Saud University, a knowledge partnership with the Human Capability Development Program, and a strategic partnership with Elm Company. The event will feature global dialogue sessions, interactive workshops, the signing of strategic partnerships with international universities and institutions, and the launch of flagship initiatives aimed at achieving the Kingdom’s objectives in building capabilities in data and artificial intelligence, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for data and AI.
The conference will also include an accompanying exhibition, where participants from the public and private sectors will showcase the latest solutions and innovations in education and digital transformation. The exhibition will provide young men and women with direct access to learning, training, career, and technology opportunities related to the Kingdom’s digital transformation, highlighting pathways to shaping their futures through local and international experiences presented at the exhibition.
