SDAIA And ICESCO Sign Agreement To Implement Riyadh Charter On AI Across 53 Member States

The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has entered into a partnership with the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO). This collaboration focuses on adopting the Riyadh Charter on Artificial Intelligence for the Islamic World. The agreement aims to create a unified ethical framework for AI governance among ICESCO's 53 member countries, promoting responsible practices and innovation.

The agreement was formalised at SDAIA's headquarters in Riyadh. It was signed by SDAIA President Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghamdi and ICESCO Director-General Dr. Salim Al-Malik. The cooperation seeks to enhance joint initiatives based on the Riyadh Charter's principles, which include integrity, fairness, privacy, security, reliability, safety, transparency, accountability, humanitarian values, and social and environmental benefits.

Dr. Kais Hammami from ICESCO highlighted that the Riyadh Charter acts as a unified governance framework for AI in Islamic nations. He stated that it is rooted in a humanitarian vision aligned with Islamic cultural values. This charter supports member states' efforts to use AI technologies to advance Sustainable Development Goals.

The collaboration aims to develop AI knowledge and skills within ICESCO member states. It focuses on building national capacities in AI and related fields while promoting responsible and ethical practices. Ensuring the safe and reliable use of AI technologies is also a key objective of this agreement.

This partnership underscores the importance of addressing shared challenges in AI governance across Islamic countries. By fostering cooperation among member states, it seeks to encourage innovation while adhering to ethical standards outlined in the Riyadh Charter.

The agreement between SDAIA and ICESCO represents a significant step towards establishing a cohesive approach to AI governance within the Islamic world. By aligning with cultural values and supporting sustainable development efforts, this initiative aims to harness AI's potential responsibly.

With inputs from SPA