RIYADH: A new Coursera report suggests that skills-based hiring is becoming increasingly common in Saudi Arabia, particularly as employers place greater value on generative artificial intelligence competencies.
According to Coursera’s Micro-Credentials Impact Report 2026, 99 percent of employers in Saudi Arabia use skills-based hiring in some form for entry-level positions, while 86 percent apply the approach extensively.
The report also found that 79 percent of Saudi employers would prefer a candidate with verified generative AI skills over a more experienced candidate without those credentials.
A new Coursera report shows that 99% of employers in Saudi Arabia incorporate skills-based hiring for entry-level roles in some form. (Supplied)
The findings reflect a broader shift in workforce development as organizations seek employees with practical, job-ready skills.
