December 2023

Responsible AI initatives in the Middle East: A roundup of activities

Countries in the Middle East have launched various initiatives to promote ethical and responsible AI, but have yet to introduce binding AI-specific regulation or legislation. Tunisia's National AI Strategy is still under development, while the UAE National Strategy for AI 2031 aims to set international benchmarks for ethical and responsible AI and the Smart Dubai AI Ethics Guidelines provide a roadmap for ethical AI practices. Qatar's National AI strategy focuses on AI adoption and innovation, while Lebanon emphasizes investment in R&D and digital skills. Saudi Arabia's National Strategy for Data & AI calls for education and research, and Turkey's National AI Strategy 2021-2025 emphasizes ethical AI development, human rights, and international collaborations. Egypt's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy aims for a balanced approach to harnessing AI for economic growth while mitigating social risks, and Cyprus emphasizes cooperation to maximize investments in AI. While Middle Eastern countries have yet to introduce specific AI laws, increasing efforts worldwide to regulate AI will soon have a global effect.