Saudi Arabia has taken it upon itself to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) ethics worldwide, drawing on its prominent international standing and pioneering role in the fields of data and AI. Notably, the Kingdom was among the first countries to adopt UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, approved in November 2021 by 193 member states.
Saudi Arabia has also continued to work diligently on this file, especially as AI technologies evolve rapidly and impact daily life across societies. With growing concerns over the potential misuse of such technologies in the absence of ethical frameworks, Saudi Arabia has prioritized ensuring human well-being in both the present and the future.
SDAIA raises AI awareness
Saudi Arabia has adhered to its international role in establishing an ethical framework for AI based on core principles such as transparency, privacy protection, fairness and justice. Through the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), and in collaboration with UNESCO, the Kingdom is contributing to shaping an AI future that adheres to ethical standards, ensuring these technologies enrich societies in a positive way.
Backed by continuous support from His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and Chairman of SDAIA’s Board of Directors, SDAIA has intensified its efforts to raise awareness of AI technologies locally. These efforts align with Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to build a knowledge-based society, increase awareness of AI ethics and develop national capacities in this vital field.
Saudi Arabia establishes ICAIRE
On the international level, Saudi Arabia proposed the establishment of the International Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics (ICAIRE), which later became a Category 2 center under UNESCO. Headquartered in Riyadh, ICAIRE represents one of SDAIA’s most notable efforts to advance AI ethics and aims to serve as a global beacon in this field.
In July 2023, the Saudi Cabinet approved the establishment of ICAIRE in Riyadh, granting it legal personality and administrative and financial independence. On November 16 of the same year, the 42nd UNESCO General Conference approved granting ICAIRE Category 2 recognition, thanks to the efforts of SDAIA in cooperation with the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science.
The center focuses on four key areas: supporting research and development in AI, promoting awareness and communication about AI ethics, providing policy recommendations and enhancing AI capacity building. It also contributes to international AI efforts aimed at serving humanity.
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ICAIRE leads key initiatives
ICAIRE has placed special emphasis on capacity building at the international level. In 2025, the center announced the launch of the second edition of the Elevate Initiative, in partnership with Microsoft and with the support of SDAIA. The program aims to train 5,000 women worldwide, as part of a broader strategy to empower 25,000 women globally in the AI sector.
ICAIRE also launched the THAKAI Platform as a leading knowledge resource for ethical and responsible AI. It provides curated content in core AI fields and includes tools such as the Glossary and the AI & Data Radar. The center invites experts to contribute to enriching the platform’s content and advancing trustworthy AI aligned with UNESCO’s principles and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
