90% of Educators in UAE & Saudi Arabia Want More AI in Schools

A new survey reveals that 90% of educators in the UAE and Saudi Arabia are calling for more artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies in schools to improve learning outcomes. The ‘AI in Education’ survey, commissioned by PowerSchool and conducted by YouGov, highlights the growing demand for AI-driven innovations across the GCC region.

The survey, which included over 300 principals and teachers from various educational backgrounds, found that 90.1% of educators believe that integrating AI and other advanced technologies is essential for enhancing education systems. Furthermore, 90% of respondents emphasized the need for personalized education to address the diverse needs of students, signaling a shift toward AI-enabled, tailored learning experiences.

Fadi Abdulkhalek, Vice President and General Manager for the Middle East Africa at PowerSchool, stated, “AI is already transforming educational practices, and our research shows a clear need for AI-driven solutions that improve academic results and streamline administrative tasks, ultimately allowing teachers to spend more time engaging with students.”

The survey also revealed that 94% of educators believe schools could better leverage their existing AI tools, with 91% calling for increased investment and additional training to optimize AI adoption. Additionally, educators noted AI’s ability to automate repetitive tasks as a major benefit, estimating that it could save them 10 to 15 hours per week by automating assessments, attendance tracking, and other administrative functions.

The findings also show regional differences, with 95% of educators in Saudi Arabia supporting AI education from an early age, compared to 79% in the UAE. Meanwhile, 93% of Saudi educators and 66% of UAE educators noted the positive impact of AI on teaching.

The survey highlights the importance of AI in shaping the future of education across the GCC. Educators are increasingly eager to adopt AI tools for school automation, with 91% of respondents—96% in Saudi Arabia and 85% in the UAE—indicating their readiness to embrace AI in education.

The ‘AI in Education’ survey, conducted in October 2024, underscores the critical role AI will play in transforming the educational landscape, with educators across the region calling for more resources and training to harness its full potential.