Saudi Arabia launches AI principles document for the media sector at the Saudi Media Forum
In a strategic move aimed at keeping pace with rapid technological advancements and framing them within ethical and professional standards, His Excellency the Minister of Media, Mr. Salman bin Yousef Al-Dossari, announced the launch of the “Artificial Intelligence in Media Principles Document.” This important announcement came during his opening address at the third edition of the Saudi Media Forum 2024, held in Riyadh under the theme “Media in a Changing World,” emphasizing the Kingdom’s leadership in adopting modern technologies and directing them to serve society.
Background and context of the initiative: The Saudi Media Forum and Vision 2030
The Saudi Media Forum is a leading platform in the region, annually bringing together a select group of leaders, experts, and decision-makers in the media field from around the world. The forum aims to explore the future of media, discuss challenges and opportunities, and foster innovation within the industry. These initiatives are part of a broader framework aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which places digital transformation and technological innovation at the heart of its strategic goals and seeks to build a knowledge-based economy and enhance national capabilities in advanced fields such as artificial intelligence.
The importance of the AI principles document in media
The “AI in Media Principles” document, developed in partnership with the Saudi Data & Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), represents a regulatory and ethical framework aimed at establishing the responsible and transparent use of AI technologies in the production and distribution of media content. The document seeks to strike a balance between leveraging the immense potential of AI in media development and the necessity of maintaining credibility, protecting privacy, and combating misinformation and fake news that may result from the unregulated use of these technologies.
Domestically, these principles will provide Saudi media organizations with a guide to adopt AI solutions in a safe and reliable manner, enhancing content quality and improving operational efficiency. Regionally, this step positions the Kingdom at the forefront of countries seeking to establish clear standards for AI governance in a vital sector like media, potentially setting a model for the region.
Additional initiatives to promote media innovation
The announcement wasn't limited to the document of principles; Minister Al-Dossari also unveiled a comprehensive package of 12 high-quality initiatives aimed at supporting and developing the media landscape. Among the most prominent of these initiatives is the "Saudi Media Innovation Camp" (Saudi Mediathon), which aims to nurture young talent and encourage creative ideas in the field. In addition, the "Tamkeen" and "Numu" initiatives were launched to support entrepreneurs and emerging media projects, transforming their ideas into sustainable and competitive business models.
The forum witnessed broad participation from more than 300 media leaders and experts, along with the Future of Media Exhibition “FOMEX”, which attracted more than 250 local and international companies specializing in media technologies, reflecting the growing importance of the forum as an international meeting place for exchanging experiences and establishing partnerships.
