ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE SAUDI JUDICIARY BEFORE JUDGMENT – THE GUIDANCE PHASE AND ITS REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

Abstract

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in courts is becoming more and more common all over the world, and Saudi Arabia is no exception as the courts are already adopting AI in the process of providing pre-judgment advice. In this stage process, classification of cases, verification of the procedures, detection of the issue, and initial assistance are performed, and it has been conventionally a hugely human intensive affair. These processes can be more efficient, more accurate, and more consistent with the help of AI tools, such as natural language processing and machine learning. Nevertheless, its unregulated acceptance creates the issue of bias, transparency, accountability, and adherence to Sharia. The paper will analyze the principle of judicial guidance in anticipation of judgment, the application of AI to this step, the regulatory landscape and legal issues in Saudi Arabia, as well as discuss international case studies. It further suggests a hybrid human-AI system of governance with an interest in supervision, ethical adherence and strictly auditing procedures. Through the equilibrium between technologies and judicial honesty, AI can assist impartial, open, and autonomous decision-making and revamp the Saudi judiciary.