Saudi Arabia Massive Open Online Course Market Overview, 2030

Saudi Arabia’s digital learning landscape is experiencing rapid transformation, driven by Vision 2030’s strategic emphasis on education modernization and workforce development. The Flexible Learning Pathways initiative an effort of the Ministry of Education and the National E‑Learning Center partners with global platforms like Coursera, edX, Udacity, and Future Learn to offer thousands of stackable micro‑credentials in areas such as cloud computing, emotional intelligence, arts, and entrepreneurship .the Madrasati platform has emerged as a national benchmark for e‑learning, praised by UNESCO as one of the most comprehensive in the Arab world. It offers blended synchronous and asynchronous learning, accessible via satellite and digital channels, and supports digital skills development through programming competitions like Madrasati Codes. On the skills front, recent collaborations include Coursera and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, which jointly launched the Saudi Generative AI Program and Tech Freelancers Program. These aim to train Saudis in AI and digital free lancing a clear alignment with broader economic diversification goals .These developments are reinforced by major tech gatherings like LEAP, the Riyadh-based expo that brings together global EdTech stakeholders and highlights the country’s ambition to lead in digital transformation. Saudi Arabia is pushing AI literacy into primary education starting in 2025, AI will be part of the national curriculum, covering foundational concepts and ethics.

According to the research report, ""Saudi Arabia Massive Open Online Course Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Saudi Arabia Massive Open Online Course market is anticipated to add to more than USD 570 Million by 2025–30. Saudi Arabia’s online learning and MOOC market has witnessed notable developments in 2025, driven by national priorities such as Vision 2030 and the digital transformation agenda. One of the most significant updates is the introduction of an AI curriculum across all public school levels starting in the 2025–2026 academic year. This initiative, aimed at equipping students with future-ready skills, includes foundational instruction in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analysis, and AI ethics, supported by international partnerships for curriculum development and teacher training. Additionally, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) recently launched ""Entrepreneurship Adventures,"" the first Arabic-language entrepreneurship MOOC on the edX platform, attracting over 17,000 learners and setting a precedent for high-quality, accessible Arabic content. Furthermore, institutions such as SDAIA Academy, KAUST Academy, SEU Thakaa Camp, atomcamp, and Tuwaiq Academy are expanding their AI-focused bootcamps, offering intensive short-term programs with job placement rates reaching up to 85%. These efforts reflect the Kingdom’s push to integrate cutting-edge digital education across all segments from school students to professionals while promoting inclusivity through Arabic-language content. Collectively, these developments underscore Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment in building a digitally skilled, innovation-driven workforce through MOOCs and related platforms.

In Saudi Arabia, the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) landscape is distinctly shaped by both xMOOCs (eXtended MOOCs) and cMOOCs (Connectivist MOOCs), each catering to different learning objectives and pedagogical models. xMOOCs dominate the Saudi market due to their structured, instructor-led design and compatibility with formal education systems and corporate training programs. Platforms like Rwaq and Doroob, developed in partnership with the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF) and other government entities, primarily offer xMOOC-style courses with pre-recorded lectures, assessments, and certification, covering areas such as business, engineering, and IT. These platforms align with Vision 2030 goals by helping individuals upskill in high-demand sectors and by supporting workforce localization. On the other hand, cMOOCs, which emphasize decentralized, learner-driven, and network-based learning, have a more limited but growing presence. These are typically adopted by innovation-focused institutions such as King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and KAUST, especially in entrepreneurship and AI-focused learning communities. These courses encourage social learning, collaboration, and knowledge co-creation, which align with the country’s growing interest in fostering digital entrepreneurship and research networks. Despite this, the scalability and formal recognition of cMOOCs remain limited compared to xMOOCs. while Saudi Arabia’s MOOC ecosystem is largely built around xMOOC platforms to meet large-scale reskilling and national workforce development goals, cMOOCs are gradually emerging in niche academic and research environments, pointing to a more diversified and interactive future for online learning in the Kingdom.

In Saudi Arabia, the adoption of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) varies significantly by learner type, reflecting both national development priorities and the evolving educational landscape under Vision 2030. High school students are increasingly accessing MOOCs for early exposure to STEM subjects and English language skills, often encouraged through initiatives by the Ministry of Education and collaborations with platforms like Edraak and Doroob. These MOOCs serve as supplementary resources for exam preparation and career orientation. Undergraduate students represent a large and active segment, using MOOCs to enhance their academic portfolios, gain skills not covered in traditional curricula, and improve employability. Many Saudi universities, including King Saud University and Princess Nourah University, have begun integrating MOOC content into blended learning models. Graduate students in Saudi Arabia tend to use MOOCs for research skill development, advanced technical knowledge, and specialized certifications in fields such as data science, artificial intelligence, and project management. They often turn to international platforms like Coursera, edX, and Future Learn, particularly when pursuing global academic competitiveness. Corporate learners form a fast-growing segment, driven by government-backed workforce upskilling programs such as the HRDF’s partnership with platforms like Doroob. Large organizations in sectors like energy, finance, and ICT encourage employees to use MOOCs for professional certifications and soft skill development, as part of internal talent development strategies. Lifelong learners, including retirees, homemakers, and mid-career professionals seeking transitions, also benefit from MOOCs. They are often drawn to courses on entrepreneurship, digital literacy, and personal development. This trend is aligned with Saudi Arabia's broader push to cultivate a knowledge-based society, enabling all segments of the population to participate in digital learning ecosystems.

In Saudi Arabia, the subject area distribution of MOOC consumption reflects national priorities, workforce demands, and evolving learner interests. Technology & Engineering dominates as the most pursued category, fueled by the Kingdom’s strategic focus on digital transformation and Vision 2030’s goals to expand its knowledge economy. Learners frequently enrol in courses on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and software development, with platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Doroob offering Arabic-localized content to support accessibility. Engineering topics related to energy, construction, and automation are also in high demand, especially among university students and early-career professionals. Business & Management follows closely, reflecting growing interest in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and leadership development. Courses on project management, digital marketing, and organizational behavior are particularly popular among corporate learners and mid-career professionals. The Saudi government's push for SME development and startup culture has also boosted uptake in business-focused MOOCs. Personal Development MOOCs are widely embraced by lifelong learners, homemakers, and young professionals aiming to build soft skills such as communication, emotional intelligence, and productivity. Meanwhile, Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences attract a niche but steady base, particularly among university students and educators exploring topics like Islamic history, psychology, or cultural studies. Education & Teaching MOOCs are essential for upskilling school and university instructors, especially as Saudi Arabia reforms its educational system with digital tools and active learning methodologies. Government programs have encouraged educators to engage in online teacher training, pedagogy innovation, and curriculum design via MOOCs, strengthening this segment’s relevance.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Massive Open Online Course Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Platform Type
• XMOOC (eXtended Massive Open Online Course)
• CMOOC (Connectivist Massive Open Online Course)

By Learner Type
• High school students
• Undergraduate students
• Graduate students
• Corporate learners
• Lifelong learners

By Subject Area
• Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
• Technology & Engineering
• Personal Development
• Health & Life Sciences
• Business & Management
• Education & Teaching Show more