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The discussions took place during the Global AI Governance Dialogue at the two-day summit running July 6-7. Dr. Alghamdi highlighted Saudi Arabia’s contributions toward United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through dedicated AI programs. The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority said the meeting examined ways to strengthen international partnerships focused on responsible innovation. Such engagements build upon years of collaboration between the Kingdom and the UN agency in technology governance.
The authority reported that Saudi Arabia established the International Center for AI Research and Ethics, which UNESCO’s General Conference approved as a Category II international center. This hub promotes AI research, ethics awareness and capacity building on a global scale. A UNESCO assessment published in December 2024 commended the Kingdom’s progress in AI readiness and governance structures. These steps position Saudi Arabia as an active contributor to worldwide ethical standards for emerging technologies.
Saudi Arabia has adopted National Principles for AI Ethics that guide development and deployment across sectors, according to SDAIA figures. The authority has awarded ethics labels to more than 60 companies to encourage compliance with these standards. It also launched a National AI Index that measures maturity levels in responsible governance among government entities. These domestic tools complement broader international initiatives led by UNESCO.
UNESCO data shows its Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence was adopted unanimously by all 193 member states in 2021. The Geneva talks align with preparations for the fourth Global Forum on the Ethics of AI, which Saudi Arabia will co-host with UNESCO in Riyadh from September 14 to 17, 2026, SDAIA announcements state. The forum will mark the fifth anniversary of the UNESCO recommendation and review global progress on ethical AI implementation. Additional workshops and expert networks supported by UNESCO aim to translate principles into national policies.
A Digital Cooperation Organization report identified Saudi Arabia among leading countries in integrating ethical practices and human rights considerations into AI policies. The Kingdom’s regulatory frameworks emphasize transparency, accountability and alignment with international benchmarks. The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority continues to engage multilateral partners to address evolving challenges in AI governance. This latest meeting reflects sustained momentum in bilateral ties with UNESCO.
Dr. Alghamdi outlined ongoing Saudi efforts to foster global dialogue on trustworthy AI during the discussion, the authority noted. Both sides agreed to pursue further joint activities that advance ethical standards while supporting innovation. The engagement forms part of a wider pattern of cooperation that has expanded since the center’s establishment. Details on specific new agreements from the Geneva meeting were not disclosed in the authority’s update.
