In a move that underscores its growing position as a regional and global hub for technology and innovation, the Saudi capital, Riyadh, is preparing to host the fourth edition of the Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence 2026, organized by UNESCO. According to the Qatar News Agency, this important international summit will be held from September 14 to 17. This global forum is one of the most prominent international platforms and gatherings dedicated exclusively to addressing the complex issues surrounding the ethics of developing and using artificial intelligence. It primarily aims to drive constructive global dialogue on the responsible governance of these technologies, facilitate the exchange of practical expertise and best regulatory practices, and explore optimal ways to harness the AI revolution to support sustainable development goals and build prosperous and secure communities.
- Forum themes and the importance of capacity building and responsible innovation
- Participation of decision-makers and representatives of international organizations
- The Kingdom’s vision and commitment to leading the path of ethical technology
- UNESCO’s role in setting unified global standards and policies
- Frequently asked questions
Forum themes and the importance of capacity building and responsible innovation
Over the course of four days of intensive discussions and in-depth dialogue, the forum will table a wide range of fundamental and critical issues currently occupying the international community. These core topics include deconstructing the ethics of artificial intelligence algorithms, mechanisms for their governance and legal control, and strategies for human capacity building and qualification to handle this development. Strong emphasis will also be placed on the concept of responsible innovation, which ensures no harm or discrimination against communities, alongside discussions on international policy frameworks and cross-border legislation that should be adopted. Furthermore, the forum will provide a golden opportunity for participants to review successful global initiatives and exchange applied experiences in this evolving field through a series of high-level sessions, specialized interactive workshops, and thought-leader presentations.
Participation of decision-makers and representatives of international organizations
This massive global gathering is distinguished by its ability to attract a distinguished and diverse elite of political and executive decision-makers, prominent technical experts, and academics and researchers specializing in artificial intelligence and ethical philosophy. It will also witness intensive and influential attendance by representatives of major active international organizations, as well as leaders and representatives of the public and private sectors, major technology companies, and civil society from around the world. This great diversity in attendance aims to ensure a multiplicity of perspectives and views, enriching discussions to produce practical and actionable recommendations that perfectly balance driving rapid technological innovation with protecting fundamental rights and providing user security.
The Kingdom’s vision and commitment to leading the path of ethical technology
The choice of Riyadh specifically to host this prominent event was not arbitrary, but rather reflects international appreciation for the diligent and ambitious efforts made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within the framework of digital and economic transformation plans. The Kingdom is seriously striving to be at the forefront of countries adopting artificial intelligence technologies while paying profound and deep attention to the ethical and regulatory dimensions associated with this radical transformation. By hosting this forum, the Kingdom reaffirms its steadfast commitment to positive international cooperation and its active role in shaping and charting a safe and sustainable technological future that places human interests and rights at the core of technological development, ensuring these tools are used for the greater good of all humanity.
UNESCO’s role in setting unified global standards and policies
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) plays a pivotal and essential role in organizing and framing this comprehensive global dialogue. By launching its historic recommendations on the ethics of artificial intelligence, adopted by member states, the organization strives to establish ethical standards and targeted unified global policies that protect human dignity and human rights. The upcoming global forum in Riyadh serves as an ideal platform to operationalize these recommendations, translate them into practical and binding policies, and monitor the commitment of countries and major corporations to applying them on the ground, thereby paving the way for the establishment of a global digital infrastructure characterized by absolute transparency, fairness, and reliability.
Frequently asked questions
Question: When and where will the Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence be held?
Answer: The forum will be held in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, from September 14 to 17, 2026, organized by the international organization UNESCO.
Question: What are the primary objectives the forum seeks to achieve through its discussions?
Answer: The forum aims to promote open dialogue on technology governance, discuss responsible innovation, and exchange best practices to ensure that artificial intelligence is employed in a way that serves sustainable development and communities.
Question: Who are the most prominent groups and entities targeted to participate in this event?
Answer: The event attracts an elite group of government policymakers, tech experts, academics, and representatives of international organizations and both the private and public sectors from around the world.
Question: What is the significance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosting this massive global forum?
Answer: The hosting reflects the Kingdom’s deep commitment and orientation to be a global leader in adopting modern technology with a focus on applying the highest ethical standards to protect society.
