Saudi Arabia and UNESCO Call for Global AI Ethics Cooperation

The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), UNESCO, and the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) issued a joint statement calling for stronger international cooperation on artificial intelligence ethics during the Fourth UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI. Held in Riyadh from September 14 to 17, 2026, the forum gathered over 60 ministers and international representatives to discuss the 2021 UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence as a global normative framework.

Participants focused on bridging AI infrastructure gaps in developing countries, specifically in Africa, and ensuring the inclusive participation of women and youth. UNESCO Deputy Director-General Asa Regner noted that AI is advancing at an "unprecedented speed" while governance struggles to keep pace, emphasizing the need to translate ethical principles into practical implementation.

During the event, SDAIA announced that its SAMAI initiative surpassed its goal of training 1 million people in AI. The program integrates ethical use, data preservation, and safety standards to prevent bias and fraud. Abdullah bin Sharaf Alghamdi, president of SDAIA, advocated for AI governance that remains inclusive and accountable while allowing countries to tailor policies to their specific national priorities and cultural contexts.