Delegations arrive in Riyadh as UNESCO AI ethics forum preparations complete

Organizational and logistical preparations have been completed in Riyadh for the fourth edition of the UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. The event is hosted by Saudi Arabia, represented by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), in partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and in collaboration with the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE), and will take place from September 14 to 17, 2026.

Preparations included setting up press briefing rooms, main event halls, meeting and workshop venues, as well as finalizing arrangements for the opening ceremony and the start of forum sessions from Tuesday. Media centers and facilities for receiving delegations and participants have also been readied, alongside the completion of technical, organizational, and logistical aspects to ensure all venues are prepared to welcome attendees from across the globe.

Meanwhile, delegations comprising ministers of technology and artificial intelligence, policymakers, experts, academics, and representatives from international organizations and both public and private sectors have begun arriving in Riyadh. The forum will feature more than 100 speakers across 30 panel discussions and specialized sessions.

Forum themes and objectives

Over four days, the forum will address topics related to AI ethics and governance amid rapid developments in the field. It will focus on ways to strengthen international cooperation for the responsible and safe development and use of AI technologies, serving humanity and contributing to sustainable development and the public good.

Saudi Arabia’s hosting of this global event reflects its growing role in supporting international efforts in data and artificial intelligence, fostering multilateral cooperation to address challenges posed by emerging technologies, and establishing itself as an active partner in shaping the future of responsible AI worldwide.