This study examines the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the legal frameworks of intellectual property rights (IPR) globally, explicitly focusing on Saudi Arabia. The rapid integration of AI technologies into various sectors presents unique challenges and opportunities for IPR systems, especially in developing countries where existing laws are not equipped to handle the dominance of foreign entities with robust IPR protections. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasises adapting legal structures to support AI innovations. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Saudi Arabia's IPR laws in protecting against AI-related infringements and to explore the feasibility of AI systems possessing or enforcing IPR independently. Using an analytical approach, this research reviews current IPR regulations as they apply to AI technologies in Saudi Arabia. Legislative texts, AI policy frameworks, and relevant case studies are scrutinised to investigate the interaction between AI applications and IPR enforcement mechanisms. Findings highlight considerable deficiencies within Saudi Arabia’s IPR laws regarding AI despite ongoing efforts to reform these laws to foster local and international investment in AI technologies. The study concludes that while Saudi Arabia has initiated significant digital transformation efforts, extensive legal reforms are crucial for protecting intellectual property in the AI sector. Establishing clear IPR guidelines specific to AI applications and considering legal personhood for AI systems could further stimulate innovation and provide a structured framework for IPR enforcement in AI.
Mohammad Alhejaili (Sat,) studied this question.