SDAIA, in collaboration with UNESCO, unveils a new initiative aimed at promoting ethical AI practices during the Global AI Summit in Riyadh, advancing responsible AI research and applications.
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 10 September 2024 – The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) has announced a pioneering initiative to promote ethical artificial intelligence (AI) research and applications. The announcement took place during the third edition of the Global AI Summit, currently being held in Riyadh. Developed in partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), this initiative aims to establish a global benchmark for responsible AI development, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation grounded in ethical principles.
The initiative was launched alongside 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 in embedding ethical standards within AI systems. The project aims to provide a robust framework for assessing the ethical maturity of AI systems, foster collaboration to further 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 the focus on the Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM), an implementation tool based on UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of AI. This tool is currently in use by nearly 60 countries, helping governments assess and reform policies and legal frameworks to ensure AI technologies are ethically sound. Saudi Arabia’s Country Report developed through RAM, was unveiled as part of the initiative, highlighting the nation’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 underscores Saudi Arabia’s role in leading discussions on AI ethics and its dedication to fostering data-driven economies through the ethical advancement of AI.
