edad Academy Program

Intensive learning program for second- and third-year undergraduate students in Saudi Arabia.

Program Overview

edad Academy is a 1-month intensive learning program combining theory with hands-on practice. Through a mix of virtual and in-person sessions, participants build core skills for any career path, including communication, presentation, and problem-solving, plus hands-on exposure to applied AI and agentic systems developed with QuantumBlack, McKinsey's AI arm, preparing them to work at the intersection of technology and business.

For the first time, edad Academy brings business and technical talent together in one cohort, mirroring how McKinsey and QuantumBlack teams actually work by combining the expertise of consultants and technologists. The cohort will mix students from both business and technical backgrounds, learning from a shared curriculum designed for both.

Guided by experienced McKinsey and QuantumBlack consultants, the program offers a personalized learning experience, culminating in a single in-person Hackathon × Case Competition where teams compete and apply everything they have learnt throughout the program

Program Format

Virtual Sessions

3 interactive virtual sessions on Saturdays (2-hour each), designed to fit your academic schedule

In-Person Finale

2 full-days grand finale event in Riyadh featuring Hackathon × Case Competition

Program Outcomes

Certificate of Completion

Earn a Certificate of Completion, recognizing your successful participation in the program

Competition Winners

Receive additional coaching from experienced McKinsey consultants along with an exclusive opportunity to connect directly with senior McKinsey leadership (including QuantumBlack leaders)

Exposure to McKinsey Experts

Develop essential business and management skills, and gain insights from leading experts

Testimonials

Abdullah Saidan

Partner, Saudi Arabia

“edad was my first ‘real’ interaction with McKinsey back in university. It helped me understand the firm better and excited me to join! The program completely changed how I view McKinsey as a Saudi professional – it showed me that consulting is not just about solving business problems, but about making a real impact in our region.”

Tan Nazer

Associate, Saudi Arabia

“One of the most valuable skills McKinsey has taught me is how to break down complex problems with structure and clarity – an approach that now shapes how I tackle every challenge. The edad program specifically added a unique Saudi perspective to my problem-solving toolkit, helping me understand how global best practices can be adapted to our local context.”

Abdullah Al-Kamal

Business Analyst, Saudi Arabia

“At McKinsey, I learned the art of structured problem-solving—breaking down complex challenges into actionable steps has become second nature to me. The edad program was instrumental in my professional development, providing me with the confidence and skills needed to transition from a student mindset to a consultant’s approach.”

Program Timeline

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking ambitious Saudi undergraduate students who are:

Currently in their 2nd or 3rd year of studies at a university in Saudi Arabia
High-achieving individuals with a strong academic track record
Proactive leaders who’ve demonstrated drive and initiative through work experience, extracurriculars, or community involvement
Curious and motivated, with a genuine interest in either strategy consulting or technology consulting and a desire to build core business, problem-solving, or technical AI skills