MEWA earns ISO 42001:2025 certification, strengthening AI Governance in Saudi Arabia

SAUDI ARABIA – The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA) has received the ISO 42001:2025 certification for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS), joining the ranks of the first Saudi ministries to achieve this global recognition.

The certification confirms the Ministry’s commitment to responsible, transparent, and secure use of AI in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

The ISO 42001:2025 certification highlights MEWA’s success in applying international standards to guide the ethical and efficient use of AI across its operations. The Ministry developed an integrated governance framework that includes risk assessment, transparency, accountability, and compliance with legal requirements.

Through these measures, MEWA aims to ensure that AI applications support decision-making, improve sustainability, and raise productivity across the environment, water, and agriculture sectors.

Over recent years, MEWA has rolled out several digital transformation projects, including AI-based predictive models, satellite image analysis, and intelligent monitoring platforms. These efforts reflect the Ministry’s focus on applying technology responsibly to strengthen food and water security and enhance environmental sustainability.

An official from the Ministry noted that this certification recognizes years of structured work and learning. “We have built a clear framework that ensures AI is used safely and transparently to achieve our national sustainability goals,” the spokesperson said.

Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030

The certification also aligns with the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to build a vibrant society and a thriving economy through digital transformation. By adopting emerging technologies under clear governance systems, MEWA contributes to strengthening digital infrastructure while supporting sustainability and food security.

ISO 42001:2025 is the world’s first standard for AI management systems. It offers a structured approach for organizations to plan, operate, and monitor AI systems responsibly while addressing ethical, social, and operational challenges tied to AI technologies.

This milestone follows MEWA’s Platinum category win at the Global ESG Awards held in Dubai earlier this month. The award recognized the Ministry’s leadership in forming research and innovation partnerships aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17.

Dr. Abdullah Alradadi, Deputy Assistant for Support and Enable Research and Innovation at MEWA, said the recognition reflects teamwork and a shared vision for sustainability. “Investing in research and innovation is the optimal path for the future generations,” he stated.

“Confronting global sustainability challenges requires partnerships that integrate scientific knowledge with innovation and international cooperation.”

The Ministry continues to advance these priorities through the Saudi AgriFood Tech Alliance, launched by Vice Minister Eng. Mansour Almushaiti. The platform supports innovation in agriculture and technology as part of MEWA’s mission to secure the Kingdom’s environmental and food future.

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