Saudi Arabia sets up centre to research AI ethics

Creative Commons/Unesco/Christelle ALIX

Saudi Arabia has announced a centre aimed to propel competencies and legislative frameworks in artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies.

The International Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics was unveiled by the minister of culture Prince Badr Bin Farhan at the 42nd session of Unesco’s General Conference in Paris on November 11. 

The centre is poised to play a pivotal role in nurturing the growth of technologies, particularly AI, within the kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

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The economic implications of AI are profound, with the potential to contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, according to projections by financial advisory firm PwC. 

For Saudi Arabia, this adds to an estimated $136 billion flowing into the national treasury within the same timeframe. 

The significance of the kingdom’s commitment to AI development is underscored by its top ranking in the government strategy sector of the Global AI Index.

The ranking is attributed to its strategic initiatives such as the National Strategy for Data and AI.

Saudi Arabia has distinguished itself by having a dedicated government authority specifically focused on AI – the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA).

The authority’s AI Ethics Principles supports the country’s effort towards achieving its vision and national strategies.

It helps companies ensure the responsible use of AI systems and protect the privacy of individuals and their rights concerning the collection and processing of their data.