RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is to host this year’s Global Artificial Intelligence Summit (GAIS) under the title, “AI for the Good of Humanity.”

Organized by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), the event will run from Oct. 7 to 8 under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, but will be held virtually in line with precautionary measures to protect participants from COVID-19.

The summit will bring together international and regional decision-makers, experts, and specialists from various governmental and private sectors, including leading technology companies, investors, and businesspeople and is aimed at building global dialogues to help with recovery from the pandemic and shape AI trends.

Among the participants will be many distinguished speakers and global experts from different countries, who will cover a range of topics divided into four sectors: ‘Shaping the New Normal,’ ‘AI and Governments,’ ‘Governing AI’ and ‘The Future of AI.’

During the summit, officials will announce the launch of a national strategy for data and AI in Saudi Arabia, an initiative that was recently adopted by King Salman and forms part of the Kingdom’s plans for global leadership through a data-driven economy and AI.

Muhammad Khurram Khan, professor of cybersecurity at King Saud University, told Arab News: “The goals of the GAIS are aligned with the vision of Saudi Arabia to become a vibrant, ambitious, and thriving nation by using the power of data, digital transformation, and AI.

“This event will enable local organizations, scientists, academics, professionals, and decision-makers to learn and exchange knowledge about new frontiers of AI.”

Khan, who is also the founder and CEO of the Global Foundation for Cyber Studies and Research, Washington D.C., said that the summit would highlight the tech-posture and journey of the Kingdom toward becoming a competitive data-driven economy.

“Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we live, work, and perform businesses. In the near future, it is expected to make greater positive impacts on our society and socio-economic system.”