AWS and Manara to train 2,500 MENA engineers in cloud and AI with $3.6M upskilling push

The programme follows AWS’s broader regional commitment, including a $5.3B investment in Saudi Arabia.

Jamie Lane
April 18, 2025

☁️ Amazon Web Services (AWS) has teamed up with Manara, the MENA-focused social impact startup, to train 2,500 software engineers across the region in cloud computing and AI, backed by a $3.6M investment over two years.

The initiative will prioritise top tech talent – especially women – from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and will be delivered via Manara’s proprietary platform, culminating in AWS Certifications and access to global job opportunities.

Founded in Silicon Valley and backed by top investors like Y Combinator and Reid Hoffman, Manara is fast becoming a key force in MENA’s tech upskilling movement.

This programme follows AWS’s broader regional commitment, including a $5.3B investment in Saudi Arabia.