Saudi Arabia Unveils ALLaM, A Pioneering Generative AI Model For Arabic

The director of the National Information Center at the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), Dr. Esam bin Abdullah Al-Wagait, announced that the Arabic language model (ALLaM) has been integrated into IBM's watsonx platform in its experimental phase. This announcement was made during the IBM Think 2024 conference.

Dr. Al-Wagait highlighted that ALLaM is one of the best generative artificial intelligence (AI) models for the Arabic language globally. The model serves both the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Arabic speakers worldwide. He praised the technical capabilities of the watsonx platform, which include enabling large language models, simplifying machine learning processes, and enhancing AI governance and compliance.

During the conference, IBM chairman and CEO Arvind Krishna was present as Dr. Al-Wagait discussed the integration of ALLaM for global use. He emphasized that this integration significantly strengthens SDAIA's position as a leading authority in AI on a global scale.

"With the unwavering support of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of SDAIA, we at SDAIA are making every effort to maximize the benefits of AI technologies," Dr. Al-Wagait said.

Dr. Al-Wagait explained that large language models trained on vast, high-quality datasets are crucial for successful generative AI implementation. The ALLaM model has been trained on more than 500 billion Arabic linguistic units. SDAIA plans to continue expanding this dataset to improve model accuracy.

"We will continue to expand by adding more high-quality data and working to improve the accuracy of the models trained on it, reaffirming SDAIA's commitment to making ALLaM the best generative AI model in the Arabic language worldwide," he added.

Upcoming Global AI Summit

Dr. Al-Wagait concluded his remarks by inviting participants of the IBM Think 2024 conference to join the third annual Global AI Summit (GAIN). Organized by SDAIA, this summit will be held in Riyadh from September 10 to 12. Leading policymakers, thought leaders, innovators, and major investors in AI will attend to explore new opportunities for effective partnerships.

The summit aims to advance AI development worldwide by bringing together key stakeholders in the field.

With inputs from SPA