From diagnosing chronic diseases to enhancing learning experiences, preserving culture and promoting efficient agricultural practices, Saudi Arabia leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to improve citizens’ lives. Aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, the Kingdom promotes inclusive, sustainable, well-governed AI use that boosts investment, infrastructure development, protected data, upskilling, research and innovation, as part of the preparation for the workforce for the jobs of the future.

Building a responsible AI ecosystem

Saudi Arabia’s AI education initiatives are at the forefront of skill development. Nationally, 86% of universities offer AI-related undergraduate programs, and have launched several specialized AI academies. The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) Academy trained 6,400 AI and data experts in the first quarter of 2024 alone. Partnerships with Google and others are extending these opportunities.

For policy design that enables innovation, the Kingdom has experimented with regulatory sandboxes, including CST’s Emerging Technology Sandbox and SDAIA’s Data and Privacy Sandbox.

A milestone in the joint collaboration with the ITU is the AI Readiness Framework by SDAIA. This is the first globally recognized tool to help countries assess their AI preparedness, evaluate AI capabilities, develop strategies for AI applications, and promote sustainable growth.

Another highlight is the Tech Innovation Challenge, targeting entrepreneurs and AI experts to inspire AI solutions for the SDGs.  The Kingdom also is active in discussing AI standards and practices at major ITU events, such as Global Symposium for Regulators and the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly.

Through initiatives such as International Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics established under the auspices of UNESCO, Saudi Arabia carry out cutting-edge AI research, ethical standards promotion, capacity-building, and global AI policy advice.

The Riyadh AI Declaration, launched at the International Governance Forum 2024, underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to international engagement, responsible digital governance, and ensuring AI serves humanity equitably and sustainably.