AI CERTs and PwC Academy Middle East Announce Strategic Alliance to Drive AI Excellence and Digital Transformation

Riyadh, KSA | February 2026 — AI CERTs, a leading global organisation in vendor-neutral and role-based AI certification, announced a strategic partnership with PwC Academy Middle East, the talent and skills development business of PwC Middle East. This collaboration is focused on empowering professionals and clients with essential skills in artificial intelligence, blockchain and digital transformation to meet the evolving demands of the regional economy.
PwC Academy has built a premier reputation for delivering world-class training programmes and customised solutions that enhance workforce readiness across public and private sectors. They have also recently introduced AI.UpSkill which is a practical learning journey designed to solve AI adoption challenges across organisations and build the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to turn AI potential into measurable results. With tailored
programmes built on a four-level capability framework, their training programmes are designed for every level of readiness, from awareness to mastery, bringing AI to life through people.
Under this collaboration,
“In today’s rapidly evolving digital economy, validated AI skills are essential,” said Russell Sarder, CEO of AI CERTs. “Our partnership with PwC Academy Middle East amplifies our mission to democratise standardised, high-quality AI education worldwide. By combining their extensive training expertise with AI CERTs’ rigorous international certification standards, we aim to empower professionals with the tools they need to thrive.”
“Leaders across the region are clear on the importance of AI, most have roadmaps in place and cultures that support adoption. Yet, when we speak to organisations, a consistent challenge emerges. Turning AI ambition into real impact depends on workforce readiness. Skills gaps remain the single biggest barrier to scaling AI effectively. Such collaborations, where we are combining global competencies with local insights, will help build a future-ready, sustainable workforce.” Samar Sayegh, PwC Academy Middle East Leader and PwC Partner
This collaboration was formalised at the recent PwC Academy AI Skills forum hosted at their headquarters in Riyadh in Laysen Valley. This event gathered L&D leaders and HR professionals to explore the skills of landscape in the region. One clear takeaway from the forum was that there is a clear market shift: AI skills are now a leadership and workforce transformation priority, not a technology discussion.
About AI CERTs®
AI CERTs® is a globally recognised certification body specialising in role-based credentials in artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies. Aligned with ISO 17024:2012 standards, its programmes set a global benchmark for quality and credibility, empowering professionals with practical, job-ready skills through hands-on, real-world application. Serving a broad spectrum of roles, from developers and data analysts to business leaders and frontline teams, AI CERTs bridge the global tech skills gap with our ever-expanding portfolio of 50+ certifications. For more information visit: www.aicerts.ai
About PwC Academy Middle East
PwC Academy is the talent and skills development business of PwC Middle East.
Their goal is simple: to support the sustainable growth of talent across the region. They equip professionals from entry level all the way to executive level with the knowledge, skills and mindset needed to solve today’s important problems and predict, prevent and manage tomorrows.