Saudi Arabia Joins OECD Recommendation On Artificial Intelligence To Enhance Global Standards

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has announced that Saudi Arabia, through the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), has joined its Recommendation on Artificial Intelligence. This recommendation is the first international standard in AI, aiming to promote innovation and build trust through responsible governance. Saudi Arabia is among 10 non-OECD member states adopting this recommendation, enhancing its global AI governance efforts.

Saudi Arabia's commitment to AI governance is evident as it ranks third globally in the OECD’s AI Policy Observatory, following the United States and the United Kingdom. The Kingdom was also one of the initial countries to adopt UNESCO’s 2021 Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. In December 2024, it completed a readiness assessment officially published by UNESCO.

SDAIA supports AI research and development while advancing regulatory frameworks for ethical use and responsible deployment. These efforts align with Saudi Vision 2030, ensuring strong governance in line with global best practices. SDAIA has issued several key regulatory guidelines, including Generative AI Guidelines for both public and government entities, an AI Adoption Framework, Deepfakes Guidelines, and a Personal Data Protection Law.

The Kingdom's collaboration with OECD includes launching the Arabic-language MENA Observatory on Responsible AI during the Global AI Summit in Riyadh. This initiative reflects SDAIA’s comprehensive approach to developing, governing, and regulating AI through legislation, ethical standards, and national and international initiatives.

SDAIA has accredited over 45 AI-specialized companies within Saudi Arabia to stimulate the local market and boost trust in AI applications. Additionally, SDAIA actively participates in the UN High-Level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence. It hosted a major consultation session in Riyadh for a report titled "Governing AI for Humanity."

These initiatives led to establishing the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) in Riyadh under UNESCO's umbrella. The center focuses on advancing research on AI ethics, fostering international cooperation, and solidifying Saudi Arabia’s leadership in shaping responsible AI governance.

SDAIA's efforts highlight its role in promoting ethical standards and regulations for artificial intelligence. By integrating legislation with national and international initiatives, SDAIA aims to ensure responsible governance of AI technologies.

With inputs from SPA