Riyadh will host the fourth UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (GFEAI 2026), according to Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan.
SPA reported that the minister stated hosting the forum reflects the Kingdom’s advanced international position in supporting global dialogue on emerging technologies and its commitment to the responsible and ethical use of AI for sustainable development and humanity.
The minister highlighted the partnership between the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), UNESCO, and the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) as a model of international integration for developing AI ethics policies and practices. He noted that this cooperation promotes capacity-building and the exchange of expertise among nations.
GFEAI 2026 is intended to serve as a global platform for researchers, experts, and policymakers to develop practical solutions and establish AI governance principles. Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan added that this aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and positions the Kingdom as a global hub for cooperation in data and AI.
What is the purpose of hosting GFEAI 2026 in Riyadh? Hosting the fourth UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Riyadh aims to provide a global platform for policymakers, researchers, and experts. According to Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the forum will facilitate the exchange of views and the development of practical solutions to establish sound AI governance principles while reflecting the Kingdom’s role as a global hub for dialogue in data and AI.
Which organizations are partnering to develop AI ethics policies? The development of policies and practices related to AI ethics involves a partnership between the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This collaboration also includes cooperation with the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE), which the minister described as a model of international integration for capacity-building and exchanging expertise.
How does GFEAI 2026 align with national and international goals? The forum aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and supports efforts to build a sustainable, inclusive, and responsible digital future. Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan stated that the event underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to promoting the ethical use of artificial intelligence to serve humanity and reflects its advanced position in supporting international dialogue on emerging technologies.