The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is fast emerging as a key player in the global conversation around artificial intelligence (AI) ethics. While the region has traditionally been known for its energy exports and economic diversification strategies, a new narrative is unfolding — one where countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar are taking the lead in shaping international AI governance.
From organizing global AI summits to forming ethical AI councils, the GCC is aligning its AI ambitions with global standards of responsibility, transparency, and trust.
Why AI Ethics Matter in Today’s World
As AI technologies become more powerful and integrated into everything from healthcare to law enforcement, concerns about privacy, bias, surveillance, and accountability have grown. Nations around the world are working to develop ethical standards that ensure AI systems do not harm people or deepen inequalities.
Global AI ethics governance is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. And the GCC recognizes that its leadership in the field will not only secure long-term technological sovereignty but also build international trust.
GCC Nations Prioritizing Ethical AI Development
The United Arab Emirates has been especially active. The UAE was one of the first countries in the world to appoint a Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence and launched its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031. As part of this strategy, ethical use of AI has been made a priority. The UAE’s AI Office has emphasized the importance of fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in AI applications.
Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, is investing billions into building NEOM, a futuristic smart city powered by AI and governed by digital ethics. The country has also created the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), which launched the Global AI Summit — a platform for discussing AI ethics, cross-border collaboration, and responsible innovation.
Read more about Saudi Arabia’s AI Strategy
Qatar, meanwhile, is aligning its AI development with global ethical frameworks by collaborating with academic institutions like Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) and Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU). These institutions are contributing research papers and policy drafts aimed at ensuring safe and fair AI deployment.
Learn about Qatar’s role in AI Ethics
Aligning with Global Frameworks
The GCC’s actions are not just limited to regional efforts. These nations are actively participating in international dialogues and forums led by organizations like UNESCO, the OECD, and the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI). These global institutions focus on developing legal, technical, and ethical norms for AI development and deployment.
For instance, during the 2023 UNESCO AI Ethics Conference, representatives from UAE and Saudi Arabia played key roles in shaping the AI ethics recommendations adopted by member states. These recommendations emphasized the protection of human rights and the need for algorithmic transparency.
Explore UNESCO’s AI Ethics Recommendations
Key Ethical Issues the GCC Is Addressing
1. AI Bias and Fairness
Bias in AI systems can lead to discriminatory outcomes, especially in sectors like hiring, policing, and banking. GCC nations are researching how to audit algorithms to ensure they treat all users fairly.
2. Data Privacy and Sovereignty
With AI systems heavily reliant on data, the need to protect personal information is critical. GCC countries are drafting strong data protection laws that match or exceed GDPR standards.
3. Transparency and Accountability
Who is responsible when AI makes a mistake? The GCC is working on legal frameworks that clearly assign accountability in AI-based decisions.
4. AI in Surveillance and Security
Some of the AI systems being developed are used for public safety, which raises concerns about surveillance. GCC nations are balancing national security interests with civil liberties.
Challenges Facing the GCC in AI Ethics
While progress is evident, the path is not without obstacles. One major challenge is the lack of unified ethical guidelines across GCC countries. While each nation is making strides, a collective regional framework would improve coherence and international impact.
Additionally, limited local expertise in AI ethics poses a challenge. To overcome this, governments are partnering with international universities and think tanks to train professionals in ethical AI practices.
Finally, balancing innovation with regulation is complex. Over-regulation could slow down progress, while under-regulation could cause harm. GCC countries must walk this tightrope carefully.
The Road Ahead: Regional Cooperation and Global Impact
To strengthen its global presence in AI ethics governance, the GCC could benefit from a unified ethical charter — a shared framework that reflects Islamic ethical principles, modern scientific understanding, and global norms. Such a move could set a powerful example for other regions with shared cultural backgrounds.
Furthermore, increased cooperation with AI powerhouses like the EU, USA, and China will be essential for the GCC to shape global rules instead of just following them.
An example of this is the recent UAE-France AI cooperation, where both countries agreed to focus on responsible innovation and cross-border AI standards.
Read about UAE-France AI collaboration
Final Thoughts: A Rising Ethical Power
The GCC’s active involvement in global AI ethics governance signals a significant shift in its global identity. No longer just an oil-rich region, the Gulf is becoming a responsible technology leader, committed to building a future where innovation is balanced with integrity.
As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, the decisions made today will shape the digital world of tomorrow. The GCC, with its growing expertise and strategic vision, is in a strong position to help lead that conversation.
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