11 March 2026 at 10:46 pm IST
Saudi Arabia and UNESCO have highlighted the importance of developing sustainable and responsible artificial intelligence (AI) during discussions involving policymakers, academics and technology leaders. The dialogue focused on ensuring that AI systems are designed to be efficient, ethical and environmentally responsible as digital technologies continue to expand globally. The discussions were linked to Saudi Arabia’s broader digital transformation agenda under Vision 2030, which includes major investments in AI infrastructure, data centres and cloud computing. Participants emphasised that sustainability should be embedded across the AI lifecycle through a “sustainable-by-design” approach that considers environmental impact alongside technological innovation. Saudi officials highlighted initiatives led by the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and the country’s National Strategy for Data and AI, which aim to strengthen governance frameworks and ethical standards for AI deployment. The Kingdom is positioning itself as an active contributor to global discussions on responsible AI development and regulation. Experts at the event also stressed that sustainable AI should focus on augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them, while reducing the environmental footprint of digital infrastructure. The discussions underscored the need for collaboration between governments, academia and industry to ensure AI technologies support sustainable development goals.
