National AI Index (NAII)
This document introduces the National AI Index (NAII) developed by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority to assess the readiness of government entities in adopting AI technologies. It details the index framework, which consists of three pillars (Directions, Enablers, and Outputs), seven sub-pillars, and twenty-three domains. Furthermore, it outlines a six-tier maturity scale ranging from Level 0 (Absence of Capabilities) to Level 5 (Pioneer) and explains the evaluation and reporting methodology.
Summary and content fields are drawn from the document text and are pending editorial review.
Who issued it
Who it governs
Government entities and decision-makers in Saudi Arabia looking to understand and improve their AI adoption maturity.
What the document contains
The document covers the framework, pillars, sub-pillars, maturity measurement levels, development methodology, and reporting mechanisms of the National AI Index used to evaluate government entities in Saudi Arabia.
The text does not contain specific survey questions, scoring algorithms, or detailed penalties for non-compliance.
- The National AI Index (NAII) assesses government entity readiness and maturity in adopting artificial intelligence technologies.
- The index framework is built upon three main pillars: Directions, Enablers, and Outputs, divided into seven sub-pillars and 23 domains.
- Maturity is measured across six levels, ranging from Level 0 (Absence of Capabilities) to Level 5 (Pioneer).
- The measurement methodology involves awareness workshops, questionnaire completion with supporting documents, and verification.
- Results culminate in comprehensive national reports and detailed entity-specific reports with actionable recommendations.
· 1. Document Purpose · 2. Index Overview · 3. Index Development Methodology - 3.1 Analysis - 3.2 Design - 3.3 Measurement - 3.4 Results
How it scores
Each score is backed by a quote verified against the document text. Editorial review has not yet confirmed them.
Accountability
4/5Clear responsibility for AI outcomes
Governance frameworks define roles, responsibilities, and decision-making mechanisms, striking a balance between innovation, transparency, and compliance
A. Directions: Strategy
screening score · 2026-10-23
Fairness
0/5Non-discrimination and equitable treatment
screening score · 2026-10-23
Human Dignity
0/5Respect for the inherent worth of persons
screening score · 2026-10-23
Human Oversight
0/5Humans remain in control of consequential decisions
screening score · 2026-10-23
Privacy
4/5Protection of personal data and private life
The entity adopts a “Security and Privacy by Design” approach, integrating encryption and access controls from the earliest stages of analysis.
C. Outputs
screening score · 2026-10-23
Transparency
2/5Openness about how AI systems work and are used
Governance frameworks define roles, responsibilities, and decision-making mechanisms, striking a balance between innovation, transparency, and compliance
A. Directions: Strategy
screening score · 2026-10-23
Enforcement
1/5Consequences and compliance mechanisms with real force
This step forms an integral par t of the Index’s governance framework, contributing to the establishment of a culture of continuous improvement in AI adoption across government entities in Saudi Arabia.
3.4.2 Comprehensive and Detailed Reports
screening score · 2026-10-23
Impact Assessment
4/5Required assessment of an AI system's risks/impacts before or during use
This involves ensuring the accuracy and stability of AI systems through c ontrol procedures, adherence to national standards, and mitigation of potential risks, in alignment with relevant regulatory frameworks.
A. Directions: Strategy
screening score · 2026-10-23