Artificial Intelligence Law in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This dissertation examines the legal and regulatory frameworks governing artificial intelligence in Saudi Arabia, analyzing the intersection of modern technological advancement with traditional Islamic principles and international standards. Through the lens of the New Haven approach, this research investigates how Saudi Arabia balances innovation with cultural values while developing comprehensive AI regulations. The study focuses particularly on the kingdom's efforts to establish effective legal mechanisms for AI governance while maintaining alignment with Sharia principles and meeting global technological standards. The research employs a comparative methodology, analyzing Saudi Arabia's regulatory approach alongside the United States' frameworks, identifying potential areas for enhancement while recognizing the unique cultural and legal context of the Kingdom. This analysis reveals significant developments in Saudi Arabia's AI regulatory landscape, particularly through initiatives such as Vision 2030 and the establishment of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), while also identifying areas requiring further development. Key findings demonstrate that Saudi Arabia's approach to AI regulation reflects a sophisticated understanding of the need to balance technological advancement with ethical considerations and cultural preservation. The research identifies crucial areas for regulatory development, including the need for specialized legal frameworks addressing AI-specific challenges, enhanced institutional capacity for implementation, and mechanisms for ensuring compliance with both international standards and Islamic principles. The study makes several original contributions to the field. First, it provides a comprehensive analysis of Saudi Arabia's emerging AI regulatory framework from both legal and ethical perspectives. Second, it demonstrates how Islamic legal principles can effectively guide modern technological regulation. Third, it offers practical recommendations for developing regulatory frameworks that serve both technological advancement and social welfare. This research has significant implications for policymakers, legal practitioners, and technology developers in Saudi Arabia and beyond. It suggests the need for a carefully balanced approach that promotes innovation while protecting social values and individual 8 rights, potentially serving as a model for other nations seeking to harmonize technological advancement with cultural preservation.