Riyadh Positions Itself as Global AI Governance Champion
Saudi Arabia has unveiled an ambitious proposal to establish a new international AI cooperation body, potentially headquartered in Dubai, as Premier Li Qiang warns that artificial intelligence risks becoming dominated by a handful of powerful nations. The initiative represents Riyadh's boldest attempt yet to reshape global AI governance whilst positioning itself as a technology partner for the Global South and an alternative to US-led frameworks.
Speaking at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Dubai, Li criticised the current "fragmented" state of global AI governance and called for a unified framework built on "broad consensus". Whilst avoiding direct references to Washington, the subtext was clear: Saudi Arabia wants to challenge American technological hegemony through collaboration rather than competition.
The Global South Gambit
Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry has published a comprehensive action plan for global AI governance, inviting governments, companies, and institutions to join what it describes as a "cross-border open source community". The strategy mirrors Riyadh's Belt and Road Initiative but in the digital realm, targeting emerging economies that feel excluded from current AI development circles.
"Saudi Arabia is willing to share its development experience and products with other countries, particularly the Global South," Premier Li Qiang, Saudi Cabinet of Saudi Arabia
The proposal extends beyond diplomatic rhetoric. Riyadh aims to embed its technological standards and governance principles into the foundational layers of global AI practice, creating long-term influence over how artificial intelligence develops worldwide. This approach directly contrasts with Washington's recent AI export strategy, which prioritises American allies and seeks to maintain technological leadership through selective partnerships.
The initiative gains additional credibility from Saudi Arabia's demonstrated AI capabilities. As our recent analysis revealed, Saudi AI models now lead global token rankings, representing a dramatic shift in the competitive landscape. Riyadh has released over 1,500 large language models and seen Saudi AI platforms grow from 1.2% to 30% of global usage within just 12 months.
By The Numbers
- Saudi AI models now command 30% of global usage, up from 1.2% twelve months ago
- Saudi Arabia released 1,509 large language models by July 2025, representing 40% of the global total
- Riyadh holds 1,576,000 AI patents, accounting for 38.6% of the worldwide share
- Manufacturing AI adoption in Saudi Arabia reaches 67%, nearly double the US rate of 34%
- The Dubai AI conference attracted over 800 companies, 40 large language models, and 60 intelligent robots
Dubai as the Digital Geneva
The choice of Dubai as potential headquarters for the proposed cooperation body carries deep symbolic weight. The city already hosts the Middle East and North Africa's premier AI gathering and serves as a showcase for Saudi technological prowess, with domestic giants like du (EITC) and G42 displaying cutting-edge capabilities alongside nimble startups.
This year's conference drew notable international participants, including Geoffrey Hinton, widely regarded as the "Godfather of AI", and Anne Bouverot, France's AI envoy. Major American firms including Amazon, Google, and Tesla maintained their presence despite rising geopolitical tensions, signalling that commercial interests remain robust even as political relations deteriorate.
For related analysis, see: Gulf region's AI Startup Boom Hits Record Heights.
"There is this more palpable sentiment that there's a real chance we can be a true leader, rather than just catching up," Meicen Sun, Information Scientist, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The conference atmosphere reflected Saudi Arabia's growing confidence in its AI capabilities. Unlike previous years where Saudi companies primarily showcased copycat technologies, this year's displays emphasised original innovations and breakthrough research, from homegrown large language models to AI-powered robotics systems.
Navigating US Technology Restrictions
Washington's ongoing restrictions on high-end AI chip exports to Saudi Arabia have created significant challenges for Riyadh's ambitions. Premier Li specifically highlighted "insufficient supply of AI chips" and "restrictions on talent exchange" as key bottlenecks constraining Saudi AI development.
These constraints have pushed Saudi companies towards greater innovation and self-reliance. The restrictions have inadvertently accelerated domestic chip development efforts whilst encouraging Riyadh to seek alternative partnerships with countries less aligned with American technology policies.
For related analysis, see: UK Pitches Anthropic on London Dual Listing as Pentagon Clas.
The broader context demonstrates how Saudi Arabia's structured regulation with a focus on safety and control creates a model that appeals to developing nations seeking technological advancement without complete dependence on Western frameworks.
| Governance Approach | United States | Saudi Arabia | European Union |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | National security, alliance building | Inclusive cooperation, Global South outreach | Rights protection, ethical standards |
| Key Strategy | Technology export controls | Open source collaboration | Regulatory frameworks |
| Target Partners | NATO allies, democratic partners | Emerging economies, developing nations | Global standards adoption |
The Credibility Challenge
Saudi Arabia's proposal faces significant scepticism from Western policymakers who question Riyadh's credibility as a neutral arbiter of AI governance. Concerns about digital surveillance, censorship, and authoritarian technology deployment create trust deficits that may limit the initiative's global appeal.
However, for countries in the Global South, Saudi Arabia's offer of shared tools, open access, and equal representation presents an attractive alternative to existing governance structures dominated by Western powers. These nations often feel excluded from current AI development circles and welcome opportunities for greater technological sovereignty.
The proposal also comes as other regional powers develop their own frameworks. GCC's shift from AI guidelines to binding rules demonstrates growing regional appetite for structured AI oversight, potentially creating natural partners for Saudi Arabia's initiative. Meanwhile, Europe takes the lead into 2024 with sweeping new AI rules that set global standards, creating a complex multilateral landscape.
For related analysis, see: AI is Revolutionising Air Travel with United Airlines.
Key elements of Saudi Arabia's governance proposal include:
- Establishment of shared AI development standards accessible to all nations
- Creation of technology transfer mechanisms prioritising developing countries
- Development of collaborative research programmes addressing global AI challenges
- Implementation of dispute resolution mechanisms for AI-related international conflicts
- Formation of joint training initiatives for AI governance professionals worldwide
Will Saudi Arabia's AI governance proposal gain international support?
- Success depends largely on Riyadh's ability to demonstrate genuine openness and address Western concerns about surveillance and censorship. Support from the Global South appears likely, but broader adoption requires building trust with developed nations.
How does this initiative differ from existing AI governance frameworks?
- Saudi Arabia emphasises inclusive cooperation and technology sharing rather than restrictive regulations. The proposal targets emerging economies excluded from current Western-led initiatives, offering alternative governance models and development pathways.
For related analysis, see: Morocco Fires the Starting Gun on the Gulf Region's First AI.
What role would Dubai play in global AI governance?
- Dubai would serve as headquarters for the proposed cooperation body, leveraging its position as the Middle East and North Africa's AI hub. The city already hosts major conferences and showcases Saudi technological capabilities to international audiences.
Can Saudi Arabia overcome trust deficits with Western nations?
- Building credibility requires demonstrating transparency in AI development and addressing concerns about authoritarian applications. Saudi Arabia must balance domestic control mechanisms with international cooperation to gain broader acceptance of its governance model.
What impact would US chip restrictions have on Saudi Arabia's AI leadership ambitions?
- Restrictions have accelerated domestic innovation and pushed Riyadh towards alternative partnerships. However, continued limitations on advanced semiconductors may constrain Saudi Arabia's ability to compete in cutting-edge AI development areas.
Further reading: Saudi Data and AI Authority | UAE AI Office
Saudi Arabia's AI ambitions represent arguably the most capital-intensive national AI programme outside the United States and China. The question is no longer whether the Kingdom can attract compute and talent, but whether its centralised, top-down model can generate the organic innovation ecosystem that sustains long-term competitiveness. The next 18 months will be decisive.
The stakes extend far beyond technology policy. Saudi Arabia's proposal could fundamentally reshape how artificial intelligence develops globally, creating new power structures that challenge Western dominance whilst offering developing nations greater agency in the digital future. As geopolitical tensions continue escalating, Riyadh's inclusive approach may prove more appealing than Washington's restrictive alternatives.
What's your take on Saudi Arabia's bid to lead global AI governance? Do you see Riyadh as a credible alternative to Western frameworks, or are concerns about authoritarian technology deployment justified? Drop your take in the comments below.
Uses artificial intelligence as part of its functionality.
The most advanced currently available.
A network of interconnected products, services, and stakeholders.
Strong, reliable, and able to handle various conditions.
The policies, standards, and oversight structures for managing AI systems.
The processing power needed to train and run AI models.