SDAIA and OECD sign MoU for AI monitoring in Riyadh, Sept 2024

On September 10, 2024, the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) formalized a partnership with the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Riyadh. This agreement aims to enhance the monitoring of AI incidents across the Middle East, addressing the region's need for improved data on AI developments and incidents. The signing took place during the Global AI Summit, which gathered international leaders and experts in the field. The collaboration will implement the OECD AI Incidents Monitor (AIM), which is designed to track AI-related data in Arabic. This initiative is crucial for enriching the OECD's existing database of AI policies, which currently includes over 1,000 policies from 70 countries. By incorporating insights from the Middle East, the partnership seeks to foster a more comprehensive understanding of AI risks and challenges. The MoU emphasizes the importance of local collaboration to ensure effective reporting of AI incidents. As the Middle East increasingly engages in AI development, the lack of available data on AI incidents and policies has been a significant barrier. This partnership represents a proactive step by Saudi Arabia to fill this gap and enhance its AI policy framework. Ultimately, the collaboration between SDAIA and the OECD is a significant move towards establishing trustworthy AI systems that meet international standards. By improving AI monitoring and incident reporting, Arabic-speaking countries can better contribute to and benefit from the global AI landscape, ensuring that they are not left behind in the rapidly evolving technological environment.