Meta Launches Metaverse Academy in Saudi Arabia Meta aims to accelerate the development of the emerging technology

By Saptak Bardhan

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

Freepik

Meta platforms, the parent company of Facebook, announced the launch of the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region's first metaverse academy in Saudi Arabia. The company aims to accelerate the development of the emerging technology.

"The Middle East and North Africa region has all the assets to become an essential player in the development of the metaverse and embrace the benefits it will bring to the economy," said Kojo Boakye, vice president of public policy for Africa, the Middle East and Turkey at Meta.

According to the consultancy form PwC, the technology is seen as an economic opportunity worth between $8 trillion and $13 trillion, heavily dependent on how much companies are willing to invest in the emerging technology.

The academy would comprise of three tracks. The first track involves inviting individuals to participate in a workshop to serve as an introduction to the metaverse. The second track would be online training in order for people to familiarise themselves with the augmented reality effects and the third would be professional training programme allowing jobseekers to apply for entry-level roles in immersive technologies.

"The business landscape is already in high demand for skills and we are committed to collaborating with educational institutions and policymakers across the region to accelerate the development of the ecosystem and train the future builders of the metaverse," added Boakye.

The Middle East area has been growing with regulations already set in place in Qatar, Bahrain and UAE. Kuwait has implemented guidelines to approve digital banks while Oman is studying how to regulate cryptocurrencies and virtual assets.

Saptak Bardhan

Former Trainee Writer

Former Trainee Writer
Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Business News

Meta Is Reportedly Offering Up to Nine-Figure Pay for Researchers on Its New Superintelligence AI Team

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, 41, is overseeing the hiring of staff for the new 50-person team.

News and Trends

Recur Club Announces Credit Offerings for Startups Beyond Series A and SMEs

In FY 24–25, the platform also plans to deploy an additional INR 2000 crores through its Recur Swift program for startups.

Leadership

I've Been Studying Ultra-Successful Businesspeople for Over 30 Years. Here's What Truly Sets Them Apart.

Here's a look at the qualities that set billionaires apart from regular entrepreneurs, including relentless drive, emotional intelligence and a strong tolerance for risk.

News and Trends

The Rise of Anish Singh Thakur: The Booming Bulls Story

"I never make any scripts. I just go there, use my real-time experience, and then give them the best knowledge and value," said Anish.

Business News

Citigroup Is Giving Employees a Remote Work Perk This Summer: 'A Quieter Time'

The bank says its hybrid work policy gives it a recruitment advantage.