SDAIA, in collaboration with UNESCO, unveils a new initiative to promote ethical AI practices at the World AI Summit in Riyadh, advancing responsible AI research and applications.
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, September 10, 2024 – The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) has announced a pioneering initiative to promote ethical research and applications in artificial intelligence (AI). The announcement came during the third edition of the Global AI Summit, currently taking place in Riyadh. Developed in partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the initiative aims to establish a global benchmark for responsible AI development, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ethically-driven innovation.
The initiative was launched in parallel with the high-level ministerial segment on AI ethics and governance at the Global AI Summit 2024 (GAIN), a program designed to share knowledge and best practices on embedding ethical standards in AI systems. The project aims to provide a robust framework for assessing the ethical maturity of AI systems, foster collaboration to advance research, and promote the global application of responsible AI practices. The summit, which brings together policymakers, government officials, researchers, and industry leaders, serves as a platform to discuss the future of AI and its role in shaping policy, research, and business strategies.
A key aspect of the initiative is its focus on the Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM), an implementation tool based on the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI. The tool is currently used by nearly 60 countries, helping governments assess and reform policies and legal frameworks to ensure that AI technologies are ethical. Saudi Arabia’s national report, developed under RAM, was unveiled as part of the initiative, highlighting the country’s efforts to integrate ethical AI into its development strategies.
By promoting regional and global collaboration, SDAIA aims to ensure that AI technologies align with societal, cultural, and religious values while contributing to economic growth and sustainability. The initiative highlights Saudi Arabia’s role in leading discussions on AI ethics and its commitment to fostering data-driven economies through the ethical advancement of AI.
