Saudi Arabia’s National Curriculum Center (NCC) has introduced a sweeping update to school curricula ahead of the new academic year, reflecting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The expanded curriculum includes new elective subjects such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Tourism & Hospitality, Fashion, Art & Design, and First Aid.
These developments are the result of cross-sector collaboration involving the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Saudi Data and AI Authority, the National Cybersecurity Authority, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Saudi Red Crescent Authority. The revamped framework fosters a holistic educational ecosystem, extending beyond traditional textbooks to incorporate daily school activities like assemblies and national celebrations.
Abdulrahman Al-Ruwaili, CEO of the NCC, called the changes “a fundamental shift,” highlighting that textbooks are now just one tool among many in a broader educational experience. The AI curriculum for secondary electives leverages self-learning to equip students with skills for the digital age, whereas the cybersecurity module emphasizes personal and device protection. Other enhancements include the expanded teaching of Chinese language to second-intermediate grade students, interactive English lessons for grades 5 and 6, Quranic study guides compatible with the “Madrasati” platform, and early childhood learning guides centered on play and family engagement.
Extracurricular learning components are now formally integrated into the curriculum, encompassing citizenship initiatives, science competitions including AI challenges, sports, and cultural arts such as heritage design. The initiative also outlines future plans for partnering with the private sector to license international educational content and ensure timely book distribution.
