The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) concluded the 10th Standards Forum at its headquarters in Riyadh on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, coinciding with World Standards Day, which is observed annually on October 14. The forum brought together experts, regulators, and stakeholders to discuss the critical role of standards in shaping the future of technology and industry. This year’s event held special significance as it aligned with Saudi Arabia’s designation of 2026 as the Year of Artificial Intelligence, highlighting the Kingdom’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies while ensuring quality, safety, and trust.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Saad Al-Kasabi, Governor of SASO, emphasized that the forum’s theme, “Standards and Artificial Intelligence: Empowering Applications and Building Trust,” reflects the rapid developments in AI technologies and the opportunities they present to foster innovation, improve efficiency, and enhance competitiveness. He noted that the leadership’s support for the standards and quality sector strengthens the Kingdom’s ability to keep pace with technological change, promote innovation, and reinforce its presence in international forums. The forum served as a platform to discuss how standards can support the responsible adoption of AI across various sectors, from healthcare to manufacturing, ensuring that technological advancements benefit society as a whole.
Context and Background
World Standards Day is celebrated annually on October 14 to honor the collaborative efforts of thousands of experts worldwide who develop voluntary standards within the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). These standards facilitate international trade, ensure safety, and promote innovation. For Saudi Arabia, participation in this global observance underscores its active role in shaping international norms and its dedication to aligning with best practices. The 10th Standards Forum, organized by SASO, is part of a series of events that have consistently highlighted the importance of standardization in the Kingdom’s development journey.
SASO, established in 1972, is the national standardization body of Saudi Arabia, responsible for developing and enforcing standards, metrology, and quality regulations. It plays a pivotal role in protecting consumers, facilitating trade, and enhancing the competitiveness of Saudi products. Over the years, SASO has expanded its scope to cover emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and sustainability, reflecting the Kingdom’s forward-looking approach. The forum’s theme this year is particularly timely, as AI technologies are rapidly transforming industries and societies, raising important questions about ethics, safety, and interoperability. By focusing on AI, SASO aims to ensure that standards evolve in tandem with technological advancements, providing a framework that builds trust and enables widespread adoption.
The designation of 2026 as the Year of Artificial Intelligence by Saudi Arabia further amplifies the significance of this forum. This national initiative, aligned with Vision 2030, seeks to position the Kingdom as a global leader in AI research, development, and application. The Year of AI includes a series of events, initiatives, and investments aimed at integrating AI into various sectors, from education to energy. Standards are fundamental to this endeavor, as they provide the technical foundation for AI systems to operate reliably, securely, and ethically. The forum thus served as a crucial milestone in the ongoing dialogue between policymakers, industry leaders, and standards experts, ensuring that AI development in Saudi Arabia is guided by robust, internationally recognized standards.
Key Details
The 10th Standards Forum featured a series of presentations, panel discussions, and workshops that delved into the multifaceted relationship between standards and artificial intelligence. Participants explored how standards can empower AI applications by ensuring data quality, algorithm transparency, and system interoperability. They also discussed the role of standards in building trust among users, regulators, and businesses, which is essential for the widespread adoption of AI technologies. Dr. Al-Kasabi highlighted that the leadership’s support for the standards and quality sector has been instrumental in strengthening the Kingdom’s ability to keep pace with technological change. He pointed out that Saudi Arabia’s active participation in international standardization bodies allows it to contribute to the development of global standards while also benefiting from the exchange of knowledge and best practices.
One of the key outcomes of the forum was the emphasis on collaboration between SASO and other national entities, such as the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), to develop standards specifically tailored to AI applications. This collaboration is expected to result in a set of guidelines and technical specifications that will help organizations in Saudi Arabia and beyond to implement AI responsibly. The forum also showcased success stories from Saudi industries that have adopted AI solutions, demonstrating how standards have facilitated their integration and improved outcomes. For instance, in the healthcare sector, AI-powered diagnostic tools that comply with SASO standards have enhanced accuracy and efficiency, while in manufacturing, AI-driven quality control systems have reduced defects and increased productivity.
Moreover, the forum addressed the global dimension of standardization, with participants from international organizations sharing insights on how AI standards are being developed worldwide. The discussions underscored the importance of harmonization to avoid trade barriers and ensure that AI technologies can be deployed across borders seamlessly. SASO’s role in this context is dual: it represents Saudi Arabia’s interests in international forums and ensures that domestic standards are aligned with global norms. This approach not only facilitates trade but also positions Saudi Arabia as a reliable partner in the global AI ecosystem. The forum concluded with a set of recommendations aimed at enhancing the integration of standards into AI research, development, and deployment, which will be taken forward by SASO and its partners.
International and Regional Impact
The outcomes of the 10th Standards Forum are expected to have significant implications beyond Saudi Arabia’s borders. As a major economy in the Middle East and a member of the G20, the Kingdom’s approach to AI standardization can influence regional and international practices. By championing the development of AI standards that prioritize trust, safety, and inclusivity, Saudi Arabia is contributing to the global discourse on how to govern emerging technologies. This is particularly important as AI becomes increasingly pervasive, raising concerns about bias, privacy, and security. Saudi Arabia’s proactive stance, as demonstrated through the forum and the Year of AI initiative, positions it as a thought leader in this domain, capable of shaping norms that balance innovation with ethical considerations.
Regionally, the forum’s emphasis on AI standards can foster greater cooperation among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which share similar ambitions for digital transformation. By aligning their standards and regulatory frameworks, GCC nations can create a more integrated market for AI solutions, enhancing regional competitiveness and attracting investment. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s efforts to develop AI standards in collaboration with international bodies such as ISO and IEC can facilitate knowledge transfer and capacity building, benefiting not only the Kingdom but also its neighbors. The forum thus served as a catalyst for regional dialogue, with participants from other GCC countries expressing interest in adopting similar approaches. This collaborative spirit aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision of promoting stability, prosperity, and innovation in the region.
Economic and Strategic Significance
The economic implications of the 10th Standards Forum are substantial. Standards play a critical role in reducing technical barriers to trade, enabling Saudi businesses to access international markets more easily. For AI-related products and services, standards ensure interoperability, which is essential for creating a competitive marketplace. By developing robust AI standards, Saudi Arabia can attract foreign investment, as multinational companies seek predictable and secure regulatory environments. Moreover, standards can drive innovation by providing a clear framework within which companies can develop new products and services, knowing that they will comply with essential requirements. This, in turn, can stimulate economic growth and diversification, key objectives of Vision 2030.
Strategically, the forum reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in the global standards community. SASO’s active engagement in international standardization activities ensures that the Kingdom’s voice is heard in the development of standards that will shape the future of AI. This is particularly important as AI is expected to have a transformative impact on economies and societies worldwide. By influencing the direction of AI standards, Saudi Arabia can ensure that its values and priorities are reflected in global norms, while also gaining early access to emerging technologies and markets. The forum also highlighted the importance of human capital development, with calls for training programs to build a workforce skilled in both AI and standardization. Such initiatives are vital for sustaining the Kingdom’s competitive edge and ensuring that its citizens are equipped for the jobs of the future.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The 10th Standards Forum is a clear manifestation of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy, enhance public services, and promote innovation. By focusing on AI standards, SASO is contributing directly to the vision’s goals of creating a thriving digital economy and positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for technology and innovation. The Year of AI initiative, launched under the visionary leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, underscores the importance of AI in achieving these objectives. Standards are the bedrock upon which this technological transformation is built, ensuring that AI systems are reliable, safe, and ethical. The forum’s outcomes will help to create an environment where AI can flourish, driving efficiency and competitiveness across all sectors.
Looking ahead, SASO will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s standards and quality infrastructure, in line with Vision 2030. The recommendations from the forum will inform future policies and initiatives, ensuring that the Kingdom remains at the forefront of technological change. As Saudi Arabia celebrates the Year of AI, events like the 10th Standards Forum demonstrate the Kingdom’s commitment to building a knowledge-based economy and a society that embraces innovation while upholding the highest standards of quality and trust. The global community will be watching as Saudi Arabia charts a course for the responsible and beneficial use of AI, guided by standards that empower applications and build trust.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO)?
A1. SASO is the national standardization body of Saudi Arabia, responsible for developing and enforcing standards, metrology, and quality regulations to protect consumers, facilitate trade, and enhance competitiveness.
Q2. What was the theme of the 10th Standards Forum?
A2. The theme was “Standards and Artificial Intelligence: Empowering Applications and Building Trust,” reflecting the rapid developments in AI technologies and their opportunities for innovation.
Q3. When and where did the 10th Standards Forum take place?
A3. The forum was held at SASO’s headquarters in Riyadh on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, coinciding with World Standards Day.
Q4. Who is the Governor of SASO?
A4. Dr. Saad Al-Kasabi is the Governor of SASO. He delivered the opening remarks at the forum, emphasizing the importance of standards in AI.
Q5. Why is 2026 significant for Saudi Arabia in terms of AI?
A5. Saudi Arabia designated 2026 as the Year of Artificial Intelligence, highlighting its commitment to embracing AI technologies and fostering innovation across sectors.
Q6. What is World Standards Day?
A6. World Standards Day is celebrated annually on October 14 to honor the collaborative efforts of experts worldwide who develop voluntary standards within ISO, IEC, and ITU.
Q7. How does SASO contribute to international standardization?
A7. SASO actively participates in international standardization bodies, contributing to the development of global standards and ensuring domestic standards align with international norms.
Q8. What role do standards play in AI development?
A8. Standards ensure data quality, algorithm transparency, and system interoperability, building trust among users and enabling widespread adoption of AI technologies.
Q9. How does the forum align with Vision 2030?
A9. The forum supports Vision 2030 by promoting innovation, enhancing competitiveness, and contributing to the creation of a thriving digital economy in Saudi Arabia.
Q10. What are the economic benefits of AI standards?
A10. AI standards reduce technical barriers to trade, attract foreign investment, drive innovation, and stimulate economic growth and diversification.
Q11. Who collaborated with SASO on AI standards?
A11. SASO collaborated with the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and other national entities to develop AI-specific standards and guidelines.
Q12. What were some success stories highlighted at the forum?
A12. Success stories included AI-powered diagnostic tools in healthcare and AI-driven quality control systems in manufacturing that comply with SASO standards.
Q13. How does the forum impact the GCC region?
A13. The forum fosters regional cooperation on AI standards, potentially creating a more integrated market for AI solutions and enhancing regional competitiveness.
Q14. What is the significance of standards in building trust in AI?
A14. Standards ensure that AI systems are reliable, safe, and ethical, building trust among users, regulators, and businesses, which is essential for adoption.
Q15. What recommendations came out of the forum?
A15. Recommendations aimed at enhancing the integration of standards into AI research, development, and deployment, to be taken forward by SASO and its partners.
Q16. How does SASO protect consumers?
A16. SASO develops and enforces standards that ensure product safety and quality, protecting consumers from harmful or substandard goods and services.
Q17. What is the role of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in AI initiatives?
A17. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visionary leadership has been instrumental in launching initiatives like the Year of AI, driving Saudi Arabia’s technological transformation.
Q18. How can AI standards facilitate international trade?
A18. AI standards harmonize requirements across borders, reducing technical barriers and enabling seamless deployment of AI technologies in international markets.
Q19. What future events are planned for the Year of AI?
A19. The Year of AI includes a series of events, initiatives, and investments aimed at integrating AI into various sectors, from education to energy.
Q20. How does SASO ensure its standards keep pace with technological change?
A20. SASO continuously updates its standards, engages with international bodies, and collaborates with stakeholders to address emerging technologies like AI.
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