Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority Shines at UN General Assembly Dialogue
In a dazzling display of Saudi Arabia’s prowess in data and artificial intelligence (AI), the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority took center stage at the 79th UN General Assembly in New York. As reported by the Saudi Press Agency, the authority’s general manager of strategic partnerships, Rehab Alarfaj, stole the show with her insights on the Kingdom’s cutting-edge efforts in the field of AI.
Alarfaj emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to building national human capacities and making global contributions in the realm of data and AI. She proudly showcased Saudi Arabia’s alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, with a particular focus on quality education.
Highlighting Saudi Arabia’s innovative initiatives, Alarfaj mentioned the National Olympiad for Programming and AI, which saw over 260,000 middle and high school students participating, as well as the first International AI Olympiad involving 25 countries. She also underscored the Kingdom’s dedication to gender equality through programs like Elevate, which trained over 25,000 women worldwide in AI.
Alarfaj emphasized the importance of training to raise awareness among policymakers and professionals in AI, stressing the ethical AI practices that Saudi Arabia has embraced. She proudly mentioned the Kingdom’s acclaimed data and AI initiatives, such as the National Data Bank and Estishraf, an AI-powered decision-making platform, which have garnered international recognition, including the prestigious 2024 WSIS prizes.
Moreover, Alarfaj highlighted the pivotal role of the Riyadh-based International Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics in spearheading regional and global AI initiatives. The center supports research, promotes AI ethics, coordinates policy development, and enhances capacity-building efforts, cementing Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in the AI landscape.