Riyadh will host the fourth session of the UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in 2026. The event aims to gather decision-makers, experts, and researchers to exchange views and develop practical solutions for institutionalizing good AI governance.
According to SPA, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, stated that hosting the forum demonstrates the Kingdom’s international position in supporting global dialogue on emerging technologies. He noted that the event reflects a commitment to the responsible and ethical use of AI for human service and sustainable development.
The Minister explained that the partnership between the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and UNESCO, alongside cooperation with the International Centre for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE), serves as a model for international synergy in developing AI ethics policies and practices. This collaboration helps strengthen capacity building and the exchange of experiences between countries.
Prince Badr added that the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science supports national initiatives that strengthen the Kingdom’s presence in international organizations and priority areas of cooperation with UNESCO. He highlighted that hosting the forum in Riyadh aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to build a more responsible, inclusive, and sustainable digital future.
Where and when will the UNESCO Global Forum on AI Ethics take place? The fourth session of the UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence will be hosted in Riyadh in 2026. According to Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, this hosting confirms the Kingdom’s organizational capabilities and its global position in supporting dialogue regarding emerging technologies.
Which organizations are collaborating 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 UNESCO. This effort is further supported by cooperation with the International Centre for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) to enhance capacity building and experience exchange.
What are the primary goals of the 2026 UNESCO forum in Riyadh? The forum serves as a global platform to bring together researchers, experts, and decision-makers to exchange views and create practical solutions for AI governance. It aims to promote the responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence to serve humanity and sustainable development.
How does the forum align with Saudi national objectives? Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan stated that hosting the forum in Riyadh aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The initiative is intended to help build a digital future that is more sustainable, inclusive, and responsible while establishing the Kingdom as a global hub for AI and data cooperation.