This is one of the most common beginner questions, and the answer is genuinely "it depends" - not a dodge. It depends entirely on whether you want to build AI systems or apply AI tools to real work.
If you want to build AI - yes, mostly
For machine learning and data work, Python is the default language of the field. You do not need to be an expert first, but a working grasp of the basics - variables, loops, functions, libraries - makes every AI course far easier. See what programming languages beginners should learn for AI.
If you want to apply AI - not necessarily
A large and growing set of AI roles are about using tools, prompting well, and knowing where AI fits a business - none of which require Python. If that is your goal, learning Python first is a detour. Understanding AI: What Leaders Need to Know and Strategic Application of AI in Business assume no coding at all.
The middle ground: learn just enough
You do not have to choose all-or-nothing. Many people learn "enough Python to be dangerous" - a few weeks of basics - alongside an AI course, picking up syntax as projects demand it. That is often faster than front-loading months of pure Python.
How much is "enough"?
- Read and tweak existing code
- Use libraries without fear
- Load data, run a model, read the output
That is plenty to start. Depth comes with the work.
The bottom line
If you are building AI, learn Python basics first or alongside - it pays back immediately. If you are applying AI, skip it and go straight to tool and strategy skills. Decide your lane using which AI course is best for complete beginners.