Impact of AI-Based Educational Technologies on Mental Health and Academic Motivation among Saudi Students

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The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into education has transformed teaching and learning. However, its psychological and motivational effects on students remain underexplored, particularly in non-Western contexts. This study examines how AI-based educational technologies influence academic motivation and mental health among university students in Saudi Arabia, where AI adoption is strongly supported by the Vision 2030 agenda. The research used a quantitative correlational design. Data were collected from 300 undergraduate and graduate students through structured online questionnaires. Descriptive, correlation, mediation, and moderation analyses were performed. The results show widespread and positive adoption of AI tools, especially adaptive learning platforms. AI use was significantly associated with higher levels of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, as well as better mental health indicators, including lower stress and anxiety and greater academic well-being. Academic motivation partially mediated the relationship between AI use and mental health. Demographic factors such as gender, academic level, and field of study also moderated these relationships, suggesting that the impact of AI varies across student groups.The study concludes that AI technologies can strengthen both motivation and psychological well-being. Nevertheless, their implementation should consider individual and contextual differences. These findings provide guidance for educators, policymakers, and technology developers seeking sustainable and human-centered AI integration in higher education.