Riyadh will host the fourth edition of the UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence 2026. The event serves as a global platform for researchers, experts, and decision-makers to exchange views and formulate practical solutions for AI governance.
According to SPA, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, stated that hosting the forum reflects the Kingdom’s international position in supporting global dialogue on emerging technologies and its commitment to the ethical use of AI for human benefit and sustainable development.
The initiative involves a partnership between the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and UNESCO, alongside cooperation with the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE). This collaboration aims to develop policies and practices related to AI ethics while enhancing capacity building and expertise exchange between nations.
Prince Badr noted that the forum in Riyadh aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to establish the Kingdom as a global center for cooperation in data and artificial intelligence. The Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science continues to support national initiatives that strengthen the Kingdom’s presence within international organizations and priority areas of cooperation with UNESCO.
What is the purpose of the UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence 2026? The forum provides a global platform for experts, researchers, and decision-makers to exchange visions and create practical solutions. It aims to establish principles of good governance for artificial intelligence and promote the responsible and ethical use of the technology to serve humanity and sustainable development.
Which entities are collaborating to organize the AI ethics forum in Riyadh? The organization involves a partnership between the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Additionally, there is cooperation with the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) to integrate international efforts in developing AI policies.
How does hosting this forum align with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals? Hosting the forum in Riyadh is an extension of the Kingdom’s role in supporting qualitative international initiatives and aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. It seeks to establish Saudi Arabia as a global hub for dialogue and cooperation in the fields of data and artificial intelligence.