Saudi Arabia Achieves Top Regional and 11th Global Ranking in AI Safety
Saudi Arabia Leads Region in AI Safety, Ranks 11th Globally
Saudi Arabia has emerged as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) safety, securing the 11th position worldwide and the top spot regionally in the Global Index on AI Safety (GIAIS). This ranking, issued by the International Research Center for AI Ethics and Governance in Beijing and the Beijing Institute of AI Safety and Governance, recognizes the Kingdom’s commitment to AI safety and regulation.
The announcement was made during the AI, Science, and Society conference, held alongside the AI Action Summit in Paris. The Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) actively participated in discussions on international AI safety policies and frameworks, highlighting the country’s progress in ensuring responsible AI development.
Saudi Arabia’s Contributions to AI Safety Research
Saudi Arabia’s advancement in AI safety is attributed to its strong investment in research and governance frameworks. The Kingdom accounts for 8.3% of AI safety-related research publications worldwide, demonstrating its commitment to advancing knowledge in this critical area.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia has established a comprehensive governance framework that serves as a foundation for safe and ethical AI implementation. SDAIA has played a pivotal role in shaping international AI governance standards, engaging in key global discussions such as the UK AI Safety Summit and the Seoul AI Summit. Through these efforts, Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a leader in the global AI regulatory landscape.
National initiatives continue to drive AI safety forward, with the Kingdom investing in scientific research and policy development to ensure AI is used responsibly and securely. This proactive approach reinforces its dedication to safeguarding AI applications for both national and international stakeholders.
Rising AI Risk Incidents and the Need for Regulation
As AI technology evolves, so do the risks associated with its deployment. Since 2022, the number of AI risk incidents has surged, primarily due to rapid advancements in generative AI. According to the OECD AI Incidents Monitor (AIM), AI-related risk incidents in 2024 have increased by approximately 21.8 times compared to 2022, underscoring the growing need for robust AI safety regulations.
Between 2019 and 2024, about 74% of AI-related incidents were directly linked to safety concerns. The number of incidents specifically related to AI security grew by approximately 83.7% in 2024 compared to the previous year, highlighting the urgency of addressing AI safety challenges.
Currently, 17 out of 40 surveyed countries have governance instruments focused on AI safety. Among them, nine nations, including Saudi Arabia, Australia, China, Germany, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States, have implemented both national AI safety laws and technical frameworks. However, most existing AI safety regulations primarily target cybersecurity and information security, with relatively few laws dedicated explicitly to AI safety.
In 2024, multiple nations intensified efforts to develop AI-specific safety policies. The rapid introduction of new regulations indicates a global shift towards prioritizing AI safety and security. As AI continues to integrate into various industries, governments worldwide recognize the necessity of implementing stringent safety measures to mitigate risks.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s recognition as a regional leader in AI safety underscores its commitment to fostering responsible AI development. By investing in research, governance frameworks, and international collaboration, the Kingdom is setting a global benchmark for AI safety standards.
As AI technology advances, the increase in risk incidents highlights the need for comprehensive regulations. Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach, along with global efforts to establish AI safety frameworks, is crucial in ensuring AI remains a force for positive transformation while minimizing potential threats. With continued investment in research and regulatory measures, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to drive AI safety innovation and contribute to the global AI governance landscape.
