ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS IN SAUDI ARABIA: ADVANCEMENTS, CHALLENGES, AND A SHARIA-COMPLIANT FRAMEWORK

Abstract

Technological modernization is one of the areas highlighted in the Vision 2030 of Saudi Arabia because it is a way to improve the level of public safety, so Artificial Intelligence (AI) is redefining criminal investigation. This article is exploring the transforming effects of artificial intelligence (AI) applications such as fraud detection, biometric identification, crime scene reconstruction, and a new reporting system of cyber harassment within the Saudi Arabian judicial and cultural ethos. With AI-based technology, there was a 90 % of identifying fraudulent transactions, SAR 2 billion saved and 60 % of 1, 200 cases identified the suspect in 2024. Nevertheless, some difficulties have to be clarified, including legal ambiguities in using evidence provided by AI, protecting of privacy rights as comprehended by the Personal Data Protection Law, and the emergence of algorithmic bias, which all requires a strong regulation field. An ethical example of such innovation concerns a proposed application using AI to combat cyber harassment in the Saudi culture. Ways forward will include the creation of a national AI regulatory body, incorporation of global standards, such as the European Union AI Act, and a Sharia compliant approach to counter technological efficiency with equity and societal confidence.