Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant idea. It is now the foundation of the next wave of innovation and productivity. Across the Gulf, governments and companies are investing heavily in AI to power smarter economies and more efficient public services. Yet one of the biggest challenges for individuals remains access to quality AI education that is both relevant and affordable.
Now, a regional initiative is helping close that gap. AI for GCC, in partnership with Google and Coursera, is offering free AI certification programs worth $1,000 to learners across the Gulf. The goal is to empower professionals, students, and entrepreneurs with practical AI skills that can support national visions such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s National AI Strategy.
Building Skills for the Future
The scholarship gives selected participants free access to two official Google Specialization Programs, each hosted on Coursera and designed for real-world learning:
- Google AI Essentials – A hands-on introduction to AI concepts, responsible AI use, and productivity with AI tools.
- Google Prompting Essentials – A practical course on writing prompts, automating tasks, and using AI creatively in work and business.
Together, these programs include nine sub-courses, offering learners a step-by-step guide to understanding and applying AI responsibly and effectively.
A Community-Based Effort
What makes this initiative unique is its community-driven approach. AI for GCC is not just a newsletter; it is a platform built to connect Gulf professionals, educators, and policymakers through clear and useful AI insights.
Behind the initiative is Kreative Minds (KM Marketing and PR), the team that founded AI for GCC. Their goal is to make AI education accessible while promoting community empowerment and corporate social responsibility across the region.
According to the team, this partnership is part of a broader effort to help Gulf citizens prepare for the fast-changing digital economy. By focusing on accessibility, the initiative ensures that small business owners, students, and early-career professionals can gain world-class AI knowledge without financial barriers.
Limited Seats, High Impact
The scholarship is currently available in limited numbers, as part of Google’s global learning initiatives. AI for GCC has secured a specific number of seats for its verified subscribers and is working to expand availability.
Applicants are encouraged to apply only if they are genuinely interested in learning and committed to completing the program. This helps ensure that every seat benefits someone who will use the knowledge to build or contribute meaningfully within the Gulf’s growing AI ecosystem.
Why This Matters for the Gulf
As AI adoption grows across the Middle East, the demand for skilled talent is rising sharply. From smart cities in Dubai to logistics optimization in Saudi Arabia and digital government services in Qatar, AI is becoming a key driver of competitiveness and economic growth.
Free access to Google’s AI courses can help close the skills gap while empowering individuals to participate directly in this transformation. For professionals, it represents an opportunity to future-proof their careers. For students, it offers a chance to enter an emerging global field.
How to Apply
Those interested can apply through the official AI for GCC website: (www.aiforgcc.com)
Applications are open to verified subscribers of the AI for GCC newsletter. Subscribing is free and ensures you continue to receive similar learning opportunities, insights, and exclusive offers directly to your inbox.
A Step Toward the Gulf’s AI Future
As global demand for AI skills accelerates, initiatives like this show how local collaboration can create global opportunity. By connecting education, innovation, and community, AI for GCC and Kreative Minds are helping shape a future where the Gulf is not just adopting AI, but leading it.
For those who have been waiting to upskill or pivot their careers, this scholarship may be the perfect first step toward that goal.
In short:
A thousand-dollar Google certification, real-world AI skills, and a growing community of learners — all at no cost. The next move is yours.
