Global AI Ethics Forum Opens in Riyadh to Advance Governance Implementation

The fourth Global AI Ethics Forum, co-hosted by UNESCO and Saudi Arabia, opened in Riyadh on September 15, 2026. Under the theme "Improving Global Cooperation to Advance AI Ethics Governance," the forum focuses on turning AI ethics principles into practical governance solutions and implementation actions. It runs through September 17, with delegates from 194 UNESCO member states invited to attend.

Government officials, representatives of international organizations, technology companies, and experts are participating, with more than 100 speakers expected to share insights. In the opening address, a UNESCO deputy director-general noted that the first UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance held in July 2026 emphasized the need for strengthened international cooperation, and this forum aims to translate that common vision into concrete actions. She called for more human-centered and inclusive AI. The president of Saudi Arabia's data and AI authority said countries should respect common baseline rules in AI governance while tailoring governance models to their development needs and cultural contexts, and enhance exchange of experience.