Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 28 September 2026: Nemetschek Group, a global software provider for the architecture, engineering, construction and operations sectors, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Jeddah to strengthen digital skills and improve industry readiness among students in engineering, architecture, design and technology-related disciplines.
The collaboration will provide students and faculty with access to industry-focused technologies, specialised training and professional development programmes aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
As part of the agreement, Nemetschek Group will provide educational software licences from across its portfolio, including Bluebeam, Archicad and Vectorworks, giving students practical exposure to digital tools widely used by architecture, engineering and construction professionals.
The partnership will also include specialised training for academic staff, supporting the integration of advanced digital tools and industry best practices into classroom teaching.
Both organisations will additionally explore opportunities to develop professional diploma programmes, enhance curricula and organise joint workshops bringing together academics, industry experts and practitioners.
The initiative is also expected to support stronger links between education and employment by creating training opportunities for qualified students and graduates.
Eng. Muayad Simbawa, Managing Director, Middle East, Nemetschek Group, said the future of the built environment will depend not only on the technologies adopted by the industry, but also on professionals who know how to use them effectively.
He said collaboration between academia and industry is essential to ensuring graduates enter the workforce with skills that reflect the needs of an increasingly digital professional environment.
“Through our partnership with the University of Jeddah, we look forward to sharing our industry expertise, supporting faculty and students with relevant digital tools and contributing to the development of curricula that connect academic learning with professional practice,” Simbawa said.
Dr. Sarah Garamalla Al-Zhrani, Dean of the Design and Art Faculty at the University of Jeddah, said the university is focused on preparing future professionals with the knowledge, skills and practical experience needed to support Saudi Arabia’s development priorities.
She added that the partnership will strengthen links between academia and industry while providing students with access to advanced technologies and professional learning opportunities.
“Together, we aim to equip graduates with the competencies required to contribute to the Kingdom’s future and support the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030,” Al-Zhrani said.
The agreement also supports Nemetschek Group’s wider efforts to promote digital transformation, knowledge transfer and skills development in Saudi Arabia.
Through initiatives such as the Nemetschek Group Academic Program, the company is seeking to expand access to digital technologies and learning resources for the next generation of AEC professionals.
The partnership comes as Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in construction, infrastructure, urban development and digital transformation, increasing demand for professionals equipped with advanced technical and digital capabilities.
