From curiosity to action, Saudi entrepreneurs are turning to artificial intelligence to solve business challenges — backed by hands-on crash courses from UNCTAD.
© Shutterstock/Sainuddeen Alanthi | Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to build, manage and scale their businesses. Yet many say they need clear, practical guidance on how to apply the technology in real-world settings.
At an AI crash course recently held by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in Riyadh, participants focused on where AI fits in their operations, which tools can help develop products, and how to manage privacy and data risks.
“AI is no longer ‘nice to have’ — it’s a founder skill,” said Heba Kurdi, Founder and CEO at Mata Logistics.
“Understanding AI helps entrepreneurs make smarter decisions, work more effectively, and turn data into real business value.”
From curiosity to action
In response to growing demand, Empretec – UNCTAD’s flagship entrepreneurship programme – launched hands-on AI crash courses with the Social Development Bank (SDB) and the Empretec Saudi Arabia centre.
The courses prioritize practical application over theory. Entrepreneurs work on real startup challenges — including customer acquisition, marketing, sales and operational efficiency — while learning how AI can advance their goals.
“Most entrepreneurs are still at an early stage with AI,” said Felipe Matos, Empretec’s AI expert and course instructor.
“They want to know how to apply it, avoid costly mistakes and prioritize effectively. This course gives them a structured path from curiosity to action.”
Participants also explored how to build AI solutions from scratch.
“This workshop opened my eyes to AI from a builder’s perspective,” said Anwar Adushe, head of sales at Tawantech.
“It showcased the different components required to create an AI tool from the ground up.”
A key focus of the training was data readiness. Entrepreneurs learn to collect, structure and analyze data so that AI tools can produce reliable, meaningful insights.
Supporting national development goals
A second AI course was delivered through the Saudi National Industrial Development and Logistics Program’s 1K Mile bootcamp, targeting early-stage entrepreneurs in energy, mining, industry and logistics.
This session introduced core AI concepts and outlined what businesses should consider before integrating the technology into operations.
“The initiative reflects Empretec’s shift towards supporting technology-driven business models, equipping founders with forward-looking training to succeed in a fast-moving digital economy,” says Arlette Verploegh who leads UNCTAD’s work on entrepreneurship development.
The courses build on UNCTAD’s report “Artificial intelligence unleashed: Transforming the entrepreneurial scene in developing nations”, which identifies skills gaps and limited AI literacy as main barriers preventing small businesses from fully benefiting from AI.
The effort also supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to position the country as a global hub for AI and innovation through stronger digital infrastructure, policy reform and ecosystem development.