In a $4 billion deal, Adobe offers free access to AI tools in Saudi Arabia
Announced during LEAP 2026, Adobe has expanded its partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and PIF-backed AI firm HUMAIN. The initiative will provide more than 27 million eligible citizens and residents in the Kingdom with free access to professional generative AI creative tools, representing a commitment valued at over $4 billion.
Under the agreement, eligible users aged 13 and above will receive 12 months of complimentary access to Adobe Firefly Standard and Adobe Express Premium. A core feature of the rollout is a localized image generation model built using Adobe Firefly Foundry. Jointly engineered by Adobe and HUMAIN, the model is natively trained on Saudi visual heritage, cultural nuances, and Arabic-language prompt execution.
To further expand access for Arabic speakers, Adobe officially enabled full right-to-left (RTL) Modern Standard Arabic editing, typography, and interface controls within Adobe Express across web, desktop, and iOS platforms globally.
Beyond consumer access, Adobe will support Saudi Arabia’s startup ecosystem by providing one year of free access to creative tools and technical mentorship for entrepreneurs participating in MCIT’s Center of Digital Entrepreneurship (CODE) and The Garage starting in early 2027.
Additionally, Adobe is collaborating with MCIT Future Skills to deliver learning tracks through the Adobe Digital Academy, equipping Saudi creators and marketers with foundational AI skills.
Executive leadersو including Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology H.E. Eng. Abdullah Amer Alswaha, Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen, and HUMAIN CEO Tareq Amin- highlighted that combining localized cultural intelligence with scalable cloud tools ensures Saudi talent can compete at a global standard in the digital economy.
