Coursera UAE Reports 344% Surge in GenAI Enrollments
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Coursera UAE, a leading online learning platform, has announced a 344% year-over-year increase in Generative AI (GenAI) enrollments in the UAE.
This growth far exceeds the MENA regional average of 128% and the global average of 195%. The data comes from Coursera's latest Global Skills Report, now in its seventh year.
The report revealed that 87% of employers in the UAE prioritize technology literacy, AI, and big data. This highlights a rising demand for future-ready talent with emerging tech capabilities.
Coursera also reported that 13% of the UAE's labor force is actively learning on the platform. Professional Certificate enrollments rose by 41%. Cybersecurity courses saw a 14% increase, signaling demand for job-relevant credentials.
Drawing from over 170 million learners worldwide, the report identified skill proficiencies, gaps, and learning trends across more than 100 countries.
The UAE's rapid rise in GenAI enrollments reflects a national drive toward a knowledge-based economy. This effort aligns with the 'We the UAE 2031' vision.
This year's report introduced the AI Maturity Index. It assesses a country's readiness for AI using Coursera data and external sources like the IMF and OECD.
The UAE ranked first in the Arab world and 32nd globally out of 109 countries. This ranking highlights the country's strong foundation in AI innovation, research, and real-world application of AI skills.
Coursera noted several government-led initiatives that support this growth: A planned 5GW AI Campus
Mandatory AI curriculum in public schools
These efforts support the UAE's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031. The goal is to increase the digital economy's contribution to over 20% of non-oil GDP by 2031.
Kais Zribi, Coursera's General Manager for the Middle East and Africa, said the UAE is scaling AI learning and infrastructure to drive transformation and innovation.
He added that the UAE's high AI Maturity Index ranking and skill proficiency show its readiness to close gaps and lead in digital growth.
The UAE currently ranks 38th globally in overall skills proficiency. It leads the Arab world in this metric, with 85% in business, 52% in technology, and 59% in data science.
There are 1.3 million Coursera learners in the UAE, out of 10.8 million across MENA. The median age of learners is 36. Additionally, 41% access Coursera through mobile devices.
Despite the progress, 72% of UAE employers still cite skills gaps as a major challenge above the global average.
Increasing women's participation in tech is seen as key to bridging this gap. Women make up 32% of Coursera learners in the UAE. Of these, 24% are enrolled in STEM and 21% in GenAI.
Coursera emphasized that boosting gender equity in tech is vital for long-term economic transformation.
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