SAUDI AUTHORITY BECOMES WORLD’S FIRST TO ACHIEVE ISO’S NEW AI MANAGEMENT SYSTEM CERTIFICATION

Authored by Ms. Tanima Bhatia | The feature image is created using Bing Image creator (Microsoft Bing)|

Key Highlights

  1. Global First in AI Certification: The Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA) has become the world’s first organization to achieve the ISO 42001:2023 certification for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS), recognizing their implementation of standards and practices related to AI management.
  2. Commitment to Excellence and Innovation: SDAIA’s certification underscores their dedication to ethical values, transparency, and continuous learning in AI. The ISO 42001 standard provides a systematic approach for managing AI risks and opportunities, balancing innovation with governance.
  3. Support from Saudi Leadership: The accomplishment highlights the crucial support from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, enabling SDAIA to serve as a national reference for AI and data. This achievement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in AI and digital infrastructure.

The Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA) has set a global precedent by becoming the first organization to achieve the International Standards Organization’s 42001:2023 certification for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS). This new standard, introduced in December last year, is the first of its kind and offers comprehensive guidance on tackling the challenges posed by AI, including ethical values, transparency, and continuous learning. The certification outlines a systematic approach to managing risks and opportunities, striking a balance between innovation and governance for organizations adopting AI technologies.

A Proud Milestone for SDAIA

Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, the president of SDAIA, expressed immense pride in this accomplishment, stating that it
“represents recognition of the implementation by the authority of appropriate standards and practices related to management of AI.”

He emphasized that this achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the steadfast support of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, highlighting that this backing allows SDAIA to serve as a national reference point for data and AI.

Commitment to Excellence

SDAIA’s success is a testament to its dedication to applying stringent standards in various AI-related aspects, including planning, resource management, operational governance, risk and opportunity management, and continuous system improvement. Dr. Al-Ghamdi noted that the ISO 42001 standard complements other international accreditations SDAIA has received, underscoring their commitment to quality and excellence. He reiterated SDAIA’s focus on aligning with the objectives of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to support both the government and private sectors with advanced digital infrastructure.

Future-Forward Vision

The ISO 42001 certification not only recognizes SDAIA’s current capabilities but also sets a framework for future advancements. The standard provides valuable guidance on ethical values, transparency, and continuous learning, while also defining methods for managing risks and opportunities in AI. This systematic approach ensures that organizations can innovate responsibly and effectively govern their AI initiatives.

Enhancing Global Leadership

With this certification, Saudi Arabia is positioned as a global leader in AI and data management. Dr. Al-Ghamdi highlighted that the ongoing support from the Kingdom’s leadership has been crucial in achieving this milestone, positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of AI technologies. This achievement reflects SDAIA’s commitment to “the highest standards of quality and institutional excellence in various aspects of its work related to artificial intelligence,” and enhances trust in SDAIA as a reliable and professional partner in the AI field.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SDAIA’s achievement of the ISO 42001:2023 certification marks a significant step forward in the global AI landscape. This recognition highlights the organization’s comprehensive approach to AI management, ensuring that ethical values, transparency, and continuous learning are at the forefront of their practices. As SDAIA continues to innovate and lead in the AI sector, this certification underscores its role in shaping a future where AI technologies are effectively governed and integrated into society.

References:

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2548101/saudi-arabia

https://www.spa.gov.sa/en/N2137042

https://wenewsenglish.pk/saudi-authority-is-first-in-world-to-receive-isos-new-ai-management-system-certification/