Saudi Arabia Advances Global AI Ethics Through Establishment Of ICAIRE In Riyadh

Saudi Arabia is taking a leading role in promoting artificial intelligence (AI) ethics globally. The Kingdom was one of the first nations to adopt UNESCO's Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, which was approved by 193 member states in November 2021. As AI technologies rapidly evolve and influence daily life, Saudi Arabia is committed to ensuring these advancements benefit human well-being now and in the future.

The Kingdom has established an ethical framework for AI that focuses on transparency, privacy protection, fairness, and justice. Through the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), in collaboration with UNESCO, Saudi Arabia aims to shape an AI future that adheres to ethical standards. This effort ensures that AI technologies positively enrich societies.

On the global stage, Saudi Arabia proposed creating the International Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics (ICAIRE). This center, headquartered in Riyadh, became a Category 2 center under UNESCO. ICAIRE represents one of SDAIA’s significant efforts to advance AI ethics worldwide.

In July 2023, the Cabinet approved ICAIRE's establishment in Riyadh, granting it legal personality and administrative independence. On November 16 of the same year, ICAIRE received Category 2 recognition at the 42nd UNESCO General Conference. This recognition was due to SDAIA's cooperation with the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science.

ICAIRE concentrates on four main areas: supporting research and development in AI, promoting awareness about AI ethics, providing policy recommendations, and enhancing AI capacity building. The center also contributes to international efforts aimed at serving humanity through ethical AI practices.

A key focus for ICAIRE is capacity building at an international level. In 2025, it announced the second edition of the Elevate Initiative in partnership with Microsoft and supported by SDAIA. This program aims to train 5,000 women globally as part of a broader strategy to empower 25,000 women in the AI sector.

Local Efforts Aligned with Vision 2030

Locally, SDAIA has intensified its efforts to raise awareness about AI technologies. These initiatives align with Saudi Vision 2030's goals of building a knowledge-based society and increasing awareness of AI ethics while developing national capacities in this vital field.

SDAIA's work receives continuous support from His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. As Crown Prince and Prime Minister and Chairman of SDAIA's Board of Directors, he plays a crucial role in advancing these efforts.

Knowledge Resources for Ethical AI

ICAIRE launched the THAKAI Platform as a leading knowledge resource for ethical and responsible AI. It offers curated content in core AI fields along with tools like the Glossary and the AI & Data Radar. Experts are invited to contribute to enriching this platform's content.

The platform aims to advance trustworthy AI aligned with UNESCO’s principles and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By inviting expert contributions, it seeks to foster a deeper understanding of ethical AI practices worldwide.

Saudi Arabia remains dedicated to its international role in establishing ethical frameworks for artificial intelligence. Through initiatives like ICAIRE and collaborations with global partners such as Microsoft, the Kingdom continues to lead efforts that ensure technological advancements serve humanity positively while adhering to ethical standards.

With inputs from SPA