Dubai, UAE – November 13, 2025 — US- and London-based edtech DataCamp, a leading online platform for data and AI skill development, has announced the acquisition of Optima, a UAE-based AI-native learning platform that personalises lessons, pacing, and feedback for each learner in real time.
Founded in 2021 by Yusuf Saber, Optima develops adaptive learning technology designed to teach data and AI skills to enterprises and individuals. As part of the deal, Saber will join DataCamp as Chief AI Officer, with the rest of Optima’s team integrating into DataCamp.
The acquisition marks DataCamp’s first major expansion into the Middle East, underscoring the company’s commitment to advancing AI-driven education globally. Optima’s technology is already powering key curriculum across the DataCamp platform, offering an AI-personalised experience for premium subscribers. Over the next six months, Optima’s adaptive learning system will be fully integrated across DataCamp’s extensive course library.
“Optima was built in the UAE to embed intelligence directly into the learning experience, so we can intuitively adjust each lesson to who a learner is and what they already know,” said Yusuf Saber, Founder and CEO of Optima. “By bringing Optima’s AI-native learning experience into DataCamp’s global platform, and by creating free access for government employees, educators, and students, we have an opportunity to set a new standard for how people in the country learn online.”
Supporting the UAE’s National AI Vision
Aligned with the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, which aims to position the nation as a global leader in AI, DataCamp is launching DataCamp Classrooms in the UAE. This initiative will provide educators and students free access to more than 500 interactive courses covering Python, SQL, Power BI, Java, Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, and more. Additionally, DataCamp will make its popular “Intro to AI” course free for six months for all UAE government employees and students.
Empowering Enterprises Through AI Upskilling
Optima’s and DataCamp’s technologies are already used by leading regional enterprises including Talabat, Careem, and ADQ, enabling them to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving AI-driven landscape.
“DataCamp is turning the page on an era of online learning defined by static and generic content,” said Jonathan Cornellisen, Co-founder and CEO of DataCamp. “With the Optima team now part of DataCamp, we’re better positioned than ever to redefine how organisations move their people along the learning curve.”
Global Growth and Market Leadership
DataCamp’s acquisition of Optima comes amid strong global momentum for the company. The platform now boasts 18 million learners worldwide and serves employees from 80% of the Fortune 1000 companies. With over 6,000 enterprise clients and a 30% year-over-year growth rate, DataCamp expects to surpass $100 million in annualised recurring revenue by 2026.
By combining DataCamp’s global reach with Optima’s AI-native technology, the acquisition is set to accelerate the transformation of online learning — from static instruction to adaptive, human-centred education designed for the AI economy.
