The Saudi Legal Forum in America kicks off with the attendance of the Cultural Attaché
In a move reflecting the outstanding academic and scientific activity of Saudi scholarship students abroad, the Saudi Law Students Association at Washington University in St. Louis (SLSA – WashU LAW) held its 2026 "Saudi Legal Forum in the United States" virtually on Sunday. The event witnessed high-level official attendance, including the participation of the Saudi Cultural Attaché to the United States and Canada, Dr. Tahani Al-Baiz, who also oversees the South American region, along with a select group of academics, researchers, and law students from various American and Saudi universities.
Legal frameworks that keep pace with global transformations
The forum distinguished itself by addressing contemporary legal issues relevant to the current needs, with its program including parallel academic sessions across two main tracks. Participants discussed a range of vital topics, most notably the interpretation and non-retroactivity of laws, competition law, and market dynamics in comparative systems, reflecting the growing interest in developing the economic legislative environment.
The forum also paid particular attention to the digital transformation, discussing frameworks for freedom of opinion and expression in the digital space, the applications of artificial intelligence in supporting and regulating litigation, and protecting user privacy. Sustainability issues were also addressed, with discussions focusing on environmental permits and their impact on investment in coastal tourism projects, as well as the expansion of the legal market between the United States and Saudi Arabia.
Context of legislative development in the Kingdom
The convening of this forum comes at a very important time, coinciding with the unprecedented legislative renaissance that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is witnessing under Vision 2030. The Kingdom is working to modernize its legal system to enhance the investment environment and protect rights, which makes discussing topics such as “the working patterns of commercial courts,” “international responsibility,” and “combating organ trafficking” closely related to the practical reality that awaits graduates upon their return to the homeland.
The importance of knowledge exchange and bridge building
The importance of this event extends beyond the theoretical aspect, encompassing the building of bridges between the Saudi and American legal schools. The presence of Saudi students at American universities presents a valuable opportunity to transfer international expertise and localize legal knowledge, particularly in specialized fields such as civil aviation and combating harassment.
The forum aims primarily to empower Saudi talents in international legal environments, promote constructive legal dialogue, and highlight scientific research that addresses emerging challenges, thus contributing to building professional and knowledge networks that support the academic and professional journey of Saudi students and researchers abroad.
