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Globally, artificial intelligence is expected to make a significant economic contribution, reaching an estimated $15.7 trillion. 

Saudi Arabia is actively investing in its AI economy, with projections indicating a substantial injection of $136 billion into the national treasury by 2030.

Saudi Arabia has inaugurated The International Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics to support its mission to advance artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. The initiative, approved by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in June, is designed to enhance capabilities and develop legislative frameworks for artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies.

The center, announced by Prince Badr Bin Farhan, the Minister of Culture, during UNESCO’s 42nd General Conference in Paris, aims to foster the development of technologies, including artificial intelligence, across the kingdom.

The proposal for creating the International Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics was submitted to UNESCO in March 2022 and gained support from Kuwait and Oman. 

In July, Saudi Arabia secured the top spot on Tortoise’s Global AI Index, highlighting its robust government strategy in artificial intelligence, including implementing the National Strategy for Data and AI.

In August 2019, Saudi Arabia established the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA), a dedicated government authority focused on AI. The SDAIA plays a crucial role in assisting companies to ensure the responsible use of AI systems.