Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) Joins Forces with IBM, Launches New Arabic AI Model
Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) and IBM successfully launched SDAIA’s open-source (with optional AUP) Arabic Large Language Model (LLM), ‘ALLaM’, on IBMs’ enterprise AI and data platform, Watsonx.
In image above: His Excellency Dr. Esam Alwagait, Director of the National Information Center at the Saudi Data Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), and Arvind Krishna, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, IBM
The news which came out earlier this week was announced at IBM's flagship conference Think 2024, which was held in Boston. Clients will be able to access the model through the watsonx.ai studio and leverage advanced AI capabilities to train, tune, and deploy ALLaM, with industry-leading governance capabilities to help enable responsible deployment that adheres to IBM’s ethical AI guidelines.
The availability of ALLaM in Watsonx broadens the reach and application of Arabic LLMs, all while delivering the necessary AI governance needed for organizations. This means that enterprises and government entities can now confidently deploy Arabic generative AI with the full support of Watsonx, creating space for more innovation.
"The ALLaM model is the product of the SDAIA-IBM partnership. This collaboration is a significant milestone on advancing Arabic language applications within generative AI," said, Ayman Al-Rashed, Regional Vice President of IBM Saudi Arabia in a official statement issued by SDAIA
“Since the announcement of ALLaM last year, our objective has been to enhance Arabic language capabilities within AI development, reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a global leader in AI. This collaboration will serve as a catalyst for further technological advancements. At the heart of this transformation is the adoption of generative AI, with Saudi Arabia taking the lead in partnership with IBM to propel the region into a new era of digital excellence.” H.E. Dr. Esam Alwagait, Director of the National Information Center at the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) told IBM.
“This collaboration is a significant milestone in promoting the Arabic language within the realm of generative AI. It ensures that both public and private sectors can benefit from deploying Arabic language models, aligning with the cultural and linguistic needs of the region,” said Ayman AlRashed, Regional Vice President, of IBM Saudi Arabia in his statement to IBM. “This progress empowers businesses across the Kingdom and the broader Arab world with unique services and strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in AI technology tailored to the unique requirements of its market.”
This fully realized development further solidifies IBM and SDAIA’s strong partnership and paves the way for future collaborative efforts. By successfully integrating advanced technologies and innovative solutions to address emerging challenges and opportunities, the new offering exemplifies a commitment to shared goals and a vision for continued progress within the region.
The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) is the competent authority in Saudi Arabia for data and AI. SDAIA is also the national reference in all matters related to the data and AI ecosystem. It is mandated to regulate and promote the sector, enable innovation and capacity building, and operate national data and AI-related platforms and infrastructure.
