How Saudi Arabia is protecting users’ privacy and data from harmful AI

As AI becomes increasingly entangled in the infrastructure of modern life, protecting privacy is no longer a niche concern — it’s a collective responsibility, says Cognizant executive Osama El-Masry. (Getty Images illustration image)
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Updated 10 April 2025
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How Saudi Arabia is protecting users’ privacy and data from harmful AI

  • AI technologies often collect sensitive personal data, raising concerns over consent, surveillance, and potential misuse
  • Saudi Arabia is leading AI regulation in the region with ethical principles and a personal data protection law

RIYADH: As artificial intelligence seeps deeper into everyday life — from smart assistants and facial recognition to online shopping and AI-generated selfies — so too do the threats to personal data and privacy.

The dazzling capabilities of AI come at a cost many users do not fully grasp: exposure to data collection, surveillance, and potential misuse. And in a world where convenience often trumps caution, experts are urging users and organizations alike to slow down and scrutinize the digital tools they engage with.

“AI systems often depend on vast amounts of data, including sensitive personal information, which raises significant privacy issues,” Osama El-Masry, who leads data protection and privacy practice delivery for the Middle East region at the IT consulting firm Cognizant, told Arab News.

“Many users are unaware of how their data is collected, stored, and utilized, leading to fears of unauthorized access or misuse. For example, technologies like facial recognition can infringe on individual privacy without consent, posing risks of surveillance and tracking.”

This warning comes amid growing concerns about how AI software processes user data — especially in apps and platforms that seem harmless at first glance.

While regulation and ethical oversight are often viewed as a government or corporate responsibility, El-Masry stresses that users must also play an active role.

“This means reading privacy policies and being aware of what personal information is collected and how it may be used or shared,” he said.

“A critical aspect of this responsibility is limiting the sharing of personal data when using AI tools. Users should strive to provide only the minimum necessary information required to achieve their desired outcomes, avoiding unnecessary disclosure of sensitive data.”

In short, treat AI tools like you would any new technology: with a mix of curiosity and caution. The onus is on users to learn how their data is handled and to be wary of oversharing. On the flip side, organizations must prioritize privacy from the very beginning of product design.

“This involves implementing strong data protection measures, ensuring transparency and explainability in data usage, and adhering to AI and privacy regulations/principles,” El-Masry said. “Organizations should also clearly communicate their data practices to users, fostering an environment of trust.

“Ultimately, a collaborative approach, where both parties understand their roles and responsibilities regarding privacy, is essential for protecting personal information in the age of AI.

“By working together, users and organizations can create a more secure digital landscape that respects privacy rights.”

Take the current obsession with AI art filters, for instance. Millions of users upload their photos to apps that transform them into anime characters or classic oil paintings. But what happens to those original images?

“Many users may not realize that while the effect is fun, their original images are still being processed and may be retained by the app,” said El-Masry.

“This underscores the importance of being mindful about which platforms and applications are trusted with personal images and data. By taking these steps, users can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding their personal information against misuse.”

It’s a simple but powerful reminder: Just because something looks like harmless fun, doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. Every interaction with AI — no matter how trivial it seems — carries data implications.




As AI becomes more sophisticated and integrated into business, healthcare, finance, education, and government systems, the implications for misuse — whether accidental or malicious — become more severe. (Pexels illustration image)

Users are also advised to challenge the information they receive from AI platforms. While many tools promise personalization and convenience, they can just as easily perpetuate bias or inaccuracies.

“Continuous education about AI ethics and privacy implications empowers users to make informed choices about their interactions with these technologies,” said El-Masry. “Users should also advocate for ethical data practices within their communities, promoting accountability among developers and organizations.

“It’s important to recognize that AI applications vary widely, with some being non-privacy-related, such as telecom network enhancements and medical diagnostics, and others being privacy-sensitive, like marketing profiling and predictive analysis.

“Users should be particularly cautious when interacting with AI technologies in privacy-sensitive fields, as these applications often involve the handling of personal data that can impact privacy rights.”

There are ways to navigate the AI landscape safely. One approach is to seek out AI tools that prioritize user privacy through transparent practices and robust protection measures.

“By taking these steps, users can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding their personal information against misuse,” said El-Masry.

The stakes are higher than many realize. As AI becomes more sophisticated and integrated into business, healthcare, finance, education, and government systems, the implications for misuse — whether accidental or malicious — become more severe.

El-Masry lists several privacy threats tied to AI applications, including “unintended biased decisions, unethical AI use cases, data leaks, decisions ambiguity, and the use of AI with vulnerable data subjects.

“This is becoming a global concern and the driver for the issuance of the different ethical AI regulations/principles by many policymakers across different regions and countries to mitigate the above risks associated with the use of AI.




Osama El-Masry. (Supplied)

While much of the world is still struggling to keep pace with innovation, Saudi Arabia has moved to regulate and promote the ethical use of data and AI.

“The Kingdom introduced the Personal Data Protection Law, which establishes clear guidelines for data collection, processing, and sharing, ensuring that individuals’ privacy rights are protected,” said El-Masry.

“This framework aligns with international standards, signaling a commitment to responsible data management.”

The country’s National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence is another critical piece of its governance efforts. It aims to build a culture of innovation without compromising ethical boundaries.

“Notably, SDAIA has issued a set of ethical AI principles that emphasize fairness, accountability, transparency, and privacy,” said El-Masry. “These principles guide the development and deployment of AI technologies, ensuring they are used responsibly and ethically.”

Despite Saudi Arabia’s leadership, data privacy in the broader Middle East remains patchy. Many countries still lack comprehensive legal frameworks to protect users’ rights.

El-Masry believes that’s an area ripe for action. “Governments should establish comprehensive AI and data privacy laws and regulations that align with international standards, providing clear guidelines for data processing.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• Saudi Arabia has introduced the Personal Data Protection Law to safeguard user privacy and regulate data use responsibly.

• The Kingdom’s National Strategy for Data and AI promotes innovation while ensuring ethical, transparent, and accountable AI practices.

• SDAIA’s ethical AI principles emphasize fairness, privacy, and governance, guiding responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.

He also advocates for coordinated public-private collaboration to raise the bar for compliance and innovation across the region.

“Organizations must prioritize compliance and even go beyond compliance and acknowledge the value of investing in implementing data responsibility practices and technologies that ensure robust privacy compliance and AI governance in conducting business, which has a direct impact on their revenues and sustainability. There are clear examples of private organizations who adopted this approach and (have) proven to be competitive and successful.

“Organizations should communicate their data practices clearly to build public trust. Additionally, mandating that organizations document AI use cases involving personal data and ensuring periodic reviews of AI algorithms can help maintain compliance with privacy regulations.

“Governments can support this by providing resources, consultation, and training to enhance organizations’ privacy and AI governance capabilities.”

While legislation and corporate responsibility are critical, El-Masry says individuals must also be empowered to take charge of their own digital lives. He calls for greater awareness and education around data privacy.

“By adopting a proactive and unified approach, both organizations and governments can create a safer digital environment that prioritizes privacy for all,” he said.

As AI becomes increasingly entangled in the infrastructure of modern life, protecting privacy is no longer a niche concern — it’s a collective responsibility. From the laws that govern AI to the choices we make about which apps to trust, the future of digital safety depends on everyone playing their part.

As El-Masry puts it: “By working together, users and organizations can create a more secure digital landscape that respects privacy rights.”
 

 


Baha’s farms cultivate more than crops as tourism grows

Updated 5 sec ago
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Baha’s farms cultivate more than crops as tourism grows

RIYADH: Tucked into Saudi Arabia’s mountainous southwest, Baha’s rural farms are drawing travelers looking for a slower pace of life.

Fruit picking, farming and rustic charm meet Saudi hospitality in the growing tourism trend.

The region is home to 23 licensed rural farms, with more expected as part of a broader effort by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture to license up to 50 farms across Baha, the Saudi Press Agency said in a report.

The growth is part of a national initiative to promote agritourism and rural development, with farms contributing to the local economy by combining agriculture with heritage-based tourism.

The ministry has supported this development by distributing 15,000 seedlings of crops suited to the region, including blackberries, pistachios, saffron, roses and strawberries.

Seven demonstration fields have been set up as models for successful farming, and small farms have been developed to host agritourism activities, including fruit picking, livestock care and tree planting.

Five agritourism workshops and several entrepreneurial training sessions have been held for farm owners. The ministry has also conducted 25 workshops on licensing procedures and 114 field visits to facilitate agricultural licensing processes.

The licensed farms span various governorates and offer a range of experiences that combine traditional hospitality with the region’s agriculture and cultural identity.

Visitors can sample local cuisine, take part in agricultural activities, and explore handicrafts and social traditions.

During the summer, the farms produce a variety of fresh fruits, including grapes, figs, apricots, pomegranates, blackberries, prickly pears and peaches.


Riyadh financial hub earns Guinness Record for 15.46 km pedestrian skyway

Updated 47 min 54 sec ago
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Riyadh financial hub earns Guinness Record for 15.46 km pedestrian skyway

  • Elevated above ground and connected to Riyadh’s metro, the skywalks help workers, visitors, and residents move easily

RIYADH: The King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh was awarded a Guinness World Record on Sunday for the world’s largest continuous pedestrian skyway network.

The network spans 15.46 km, linking 95 buildings through 42 climate-controlled skywalks, allowing year-round pedestrian access.

Elevated above ground and connected to Riyadh’s metro, the skywalks help workers, visitors, and residents move easily through the district while avoiding traffic and weather.

Built with 30,000 sq. meters of glass and more than 3,000 tonnes of steel, the project required more than 5 million safe work hours from 1,200 personnel.

The skywalks connect offices, homes, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it easier to walk between work, home, and leisure.

“This recognition by Guinness World Records affirms KAFD as a platform for urban development,” said Faddy AlAql, chief asset delivery officer at KAFD Development and Management Co.

“The skywalk network reflects a mobility strategy that connects assets, enhances walkability, and supports our goal of delivering a smart city experience.”

Mbali Nkosi, official adjudicator for Guinness World Records, said: “First set in Minneapolis in 2016, this record has now been redefined by KAFD. In an era where sustainability drives innovation, KAFD’s skyway network sets a new benchmark for walkable urban design.”

The district hosts more than 90 international and local companies and 19 regional headquarters, including Goldman Sachs, Bain & Company, and PepsiCo.


Qassim shines as date harvest fills local markets

Qassim region is abuzz as the early date harvest begins, yielding more than 50 varieties and filling local markets. (SPA)
Updated 49 min 35 sec ago
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Qassim shines as date harvest fills local markets

  • Qassim contributes more than 390,000 tonnes annually to Saudi Arabia’s total date production
  • With more than 11 million palm trees, Qassim produces popular varieties such as sukari, barhi, saggi, ajwa, khalas, mabroom, safawi and anbari

JEDDAH: Qassim region is abuzz as the early date harvest begins, yielding more than 50 varieties and filling local markets, reaffirming the region’s role as a major center for date cultivation and marketing in the Kingdom.

According to the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Qassim contributes more than 390,000 tonnes annually to Saudi Arabia’s total date production.

This output strengthens its leadership in food security and boosts Saudi agricultural exports, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

With more than 11 million palm trees, Qassim produces popular varieties such as sukari, barhi, saggi, ajwa, khalas, mabroom, safawi and anbari.

This abundance supports local food security and supplies dates to more than 100 countries worldwide, the SPA added.

Date farmer Abdulaziz Al-Baridi praised the support farmers receive from the ministry branch in Qassim, including education on irrigation techniques and pest control, and preparation of markets for date trade.

As the harvest gains momentum, preparations are underway for the Buraidah Dates Festival. It is expected to boost economic activity, raise nutritional awareness, and strengthen market links between farmers and consumers.

The festival aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by promoting agricultural sustainability and diversifying the economy.


Islamic coalition hosts training program in Riyadh

Updated 06 July 2025
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Islamic coalition hosts training program in Riyadh

RIYADH: The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition launched a specialized training program titled “Collection Management” on Sunday at its Riyadh headquarters.

This initiative is part of the Kingdom’s efforts to support and build the capacities of nominees from coalition member states, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The program aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goal to enhance integration and cooperation among member states in the fight against terrorism.

It targets 25 nominees from 14 member states, providing theoretical knowledge and practical skills in collection operations, data analysis, and supporting decision-makers in counterterrorism and anti-extremism.

The five-day program, supervised by military and information experts, includes training sessions, simulations, and workshops to improve institutional readiness and capacity for current security challenges.

This training is part of a broader coalition effort, now comprising more than 46 specialized programs covering areas like ideology, terrorism financing, military coordination, and media engagement.


Saudi program empowers small livestock farmers

Updated 06 July 2025
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Saudi program empowers small livestock farmers

JEDDAH: The Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Program, known as Saudi Reef, highlighted the importance of supporting small livestock farmers across Saudi Arabia to boost productivity and investment.

The program reviewed last year’s efforts in digital management of intensive livestock farms, including the first implementation of the Saudi Smart Flock system, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Majed Al-Buraikan, Reef Saudi spokesperson, said the Saudi Smart Flock is a digital system that uses smart technology, including facial recognition, to manage both traditional and intensive livestock farms. It is the first of its kind to be applied to small ruminants and has been tested on six small farms.

Al-Buraikan said that the system, which identifies animals by their facial features, also monitors productivity, provides health updates, and manages animal records through its platform. It reduces losses, improves quality, and supports decision-making with accurate data.

The small livestock sector is a key focus of Saudi Reef, aiming to increase productivity, raise farmers’ income, improve livelihoods, and develop traditional production systems while supporting food security.