Saudi Arabia Demonstrates Leadership In Comprehensive AI Governance At Paris Action Summit

Dr. Abdullah bin Sharaf Alghamdi, President of the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), highlighted Saudi Arabia's leadership in AI governance at the AI Action Summit in Paris. He emphasised the Kingdom's role in setting a model for comprehensive AI governance, crucial as AI influences global economies and societies. His remarks were made during a session attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and other global leaders.

Dr. Alghamdi stressed that inclusive AI governance is essential to ensure all stakeholders have a say in AI's future. This includes governments, businesses, civil society, and underrepresented communities. By promoting collaboration and transparency, such governance can mitigate risks and build trust, ensuring AI benefits everyone rather than just select groups.

Saudi Arabia has demonstrated its commitment by publishing 65 AI-related policies on the OECD's AI Policy Observatory. This achievement places the Kingdom third globally after the United States and the United Kingdom. Additionally, Saudi Arabia launched the AI Policy and Incident Observatory for the Middle East in Arabic, showcasing its dedication to regional transparency.

The Kingdom's efforts extend beyond policy initiatives to establishing significant institutions like the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) in Riyadh. As a UNESCO Category 2 centre, ICAIRE plays a vital role in shaping ethical and responsible AI policies while enhancing capacity building.

In 2020, before recent advancements in AI, Saudi Arabia hosted the inaugural Global AI Summit in Riyadh. The third edition of this summit took place in 2024, attracting experts from over 100 countries to discuss how AI can benefit humanity. These summits underscore Saudi Arabia's influence on global discussions about AI.

The Kingdom also hosted the largest consultative session of the UN Advisory Body on AI in Riyadh with representatives from over 53 Islamic countries. This led to launching the Riyadh Charter for AI Ethics last September, reflecting its impact on two billion Muslims worldwide.

Collaborative Efforts with International Bodies

ICAIRE has organised numerous events with organisations like the Arab League and GCC, involving over 100 experts from 28 countries. These initiatives aim to strengthen regional governance frameworks and establish clear ethical regulations for AI development.

Dr. Alghamdi concluded by highlighting Saudi Arabia’s readiness to shape the future of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI). The GPAI ministerial council meeting will be held in Slovakia in 2025. He called for unified international efforts to create an innovative and inclusive global AI ecosystem.

With inputs from SPA