UNESCO Forum Experts Examine Saudi Model for AI Risk Management, Safe and Responsible Adoption

The UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (GFEAI 2026) in Riyadh featured a presentation on Saudi Arabia's efforts to move from theoretical frameworks to practical implementation in managing AI-related risks. The presentation highlighted the National AI Risk Management Framework issued by the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA).

 During the session, experts and AI specialists from around the world learned about SDAIA's efforts and the importance of risk management as a fundamental component of AI governance. Discussions also addressed its role in supporting entities in developing and adopting AI solutions.

 The National AI Risk Management Framework serves as a comprehensive reference and guidance document that translates international and ethical recommendations on AI into practical frameworks and implementation policies. It aims to establish an integrated and unified national approach to identifying, assessing, addressing, and monitoring risks associated with AI technologies in the government and private sectors. This approach supports the safe and responsible adoption of these technologies while advancing Saudi Arabia's digital transformation and economic competitiveness in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

 The framework targets three main groups. It guides system developers in integrating safety considerations and risk governance into the design, training, and testing stages before deployment. It assists system operators in adopting clear operational and monitoring policies and defining responsibilities for follow-up and incident response. It also supports policymakers in assessing the readiness of regulatory and legal frameworks and developing phased legislation that promotes innovation while protecting society.

 The framework is based on seven core ethical principles aligned with the UNESCO Recommendation adopted in 2021.