Saudi Arabia to host UNESCO AI ethics forum in 2026, highlighting global standing

Culture Minister Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan announced that Saudi Arabia will host the UNESCO Global Forum on AI Ethics in 2026, a significant demonstration of the Kingdom's rising global influence and dedication to responsible technological development. The forum, to be held in Riyadh, will serve as a crucial platform for global discourse on emerging AI technologies, emphasizing Saudi Arabia's commitment to fostering ethical AI practices for the betterment of humanity and sustainable growth.

Minister bin Farhan highlighted the strategic partnership between the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) and UNESCO, along with the collaboration with the International Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics (ICAIRE), as a stellar example of international cooperation aimed at shaping AI ethics policies and practices.

He underscored the importance of this partnership in facilitating the exchange of expertise and capacity-building among nations, thereby strengthening Saudi Arabia's role in international organizations and its collaborative efforts with UNESCO in key areas. The forum's outcome will be a comprehensive set of global insights and practical solutions, aimed at reinforcing responsible governance in artificial intelligence, in line with Saudi Vision 2030's objectives and the broader goal of realizing a responsible, inclusive, and sustainable digital future.