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RIYADH: An electronic platform intended to train legal professionals by simulating the performance of attorneys during litigation was demonstrated at a conference in Riyadh this week.

At the 2nd International Conference on Judicial Training in Riyadh, Egyptian judge Mohamed Samir Marai unveiled a version of the technology.

Marai told Arab News that AI tools represent a key pillar for judicial development, saying that “AI models can currently accelerate the process of case classification, identify similar patterns and conflicts in lawsuits, and provide research and drafting assistance, thereby enhancing the quality of services provided to litigants, while ensuring that judicial decisions remain fundamentally human.”

He added that that the success of applying these technologies is “conditional on strict safeguards,” which include data protection, transparency, auditability, mandatory human verification and model integrity, to guarantee their fairness and reliability.

“The purpose of launching a digital training platform is to unify training standards and ensure access for all judges and members of judicial bodies throughout the country,” Marai said.

“These platforms will provide learning paths tailored to judicial specialization and practical experience, alongside advanced digital simulations of trial procedures and judgment drafting, with real-time and precise tracking of progress and impact,” he added.

On the expected impact of digital transformation in judicial training, Marai said: “We aim to raise the competencies of judges and public prosecutors through customized learning based on a skills matrix for each pathway, reinforced with digital simulations of procedures and digital evidence.”

He highlighted the implementation of “a pre- and post-assessment system to ensure the product’s effectiveness.”

This approach will “enhance the quality of training packages and assessments with unified standards and audit records, while automatically tracking continuing professional development hours and accreditations.”

Numerous regional and international companies presented digital products at the conference, organized by the Ministry of Justice and opened on Sunday by Vice Minister of Justice Dr. Najem Al-Zaid.

“The Ministry of Justice has been committed to embedding quality in legal and judicial work while enhancing the efficiency of the justice system,” Al-Zaid said.

Luis Maria Palma, vice chairman of the International Institute for Justice Excellence in The Hague, Netherlands, told Arab News that judicial training “fosters a culture of transformation that nurtures leadership, teamwork and empathy.

“By refining those who serve, it becomes the architect of new models of justice and the guardian of society’s most vital trust,” he added.

Saudi Bar Association member, lawyer Khaled Al-Muhaidib, said the conference “represents a major platform and an exceptional opportunity to present new innovations and initiatives, particularly those related to artificial intelligence technologies, which in recent years have increasingly rivaled humans, occupying a prominent place and playing a pivotal role across various fields.”

ALKHOBAR: Jazan Municipality has completed 145 walkways and sports paths across the region, part of an effort to encourage physical activity and improve public health.

The project is designed to create a safe, healthy environment while offering spaces that promote both exercise and social interaction, the municipality said. 

Each walkway is equipped with lighting, seating, parking, and landscaped green areas, with wide lanes to accommodate walkers and joggers. 

Decorative features and shaded spots were added to enhance the experience and make the spaces more attractive for residents of all ages.

Officials said the initiative supports Vision 2030’s goals of enhancing quality of life and creating sustainable urban spaces.

By providing safe, well-maintained routes, the walkways are expected to encourage daily physical activity, contributing to healthier lifestyles and reducing chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity.

Residents welcomed the move as a major step toward improving community health and lifestyle.

“I am absolutely thrilled to hear about the development of 145 new modern walkways and sports paths in Jazan,” said Meshal Al-Makhlafi. “This is a fantastic and much-needed initiative that represents a significant step forward for our community.”

He noted that by removing barriers such as safety and accessibility, the city has made walking a more appealing choice. “I believe they (walkways) will be a powerful incentive for many to start walking and embrace a healthier lifestyle.”

The municipality said it will continue to invest in recreational projects to meet growing demand, including shaded areas, bicycle lanes, and spaces for outdoor group activities.

Officials added that these projects position Jazan as a model city for public health initiatives, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to building vibrant, active communities under its national transformation plan.