The event highlighted rapid technological advancements and the steady shift toward models that prevent disputes before they reach the courtroom.

The conference hosted more than 50 speakers, including judges, academics, legal advisors and specialists from leading international institutions.

Their discussions focused on practical strategies, new legal frameworks and the growing role of artificial intelligence in modern judicial processes.

Preventive justice emerged as one of the most prominent themes during the second day of the event.

Experts emphasized that judicial systems around the world are moving toward approaches that reduce litigation through early intervention, alternative dispute resolution and improved access to legal guidance.

Pietro Alpekakos, a Greek judge and expert with the European Judicial Training Network, explained that the concept of justice is no longer limited to resolving disputes after they arise.

He stated that mediation, reconciliation and amicable settlements can significantly reduce case loads and improve the overall experience of individuals seeking legal redress.

Lord Thomas of Cwmgiedd, former president of the Supreme Court of England and Wales, presented a structured vision for implementing preventive justice.

He emphasized that judges must examine potential drawbacks and identify steps to mitigate risks when considering preventive measures within their jurisdictions.

Prof. Jauntas Machado, director of the Human Rights Center in Portugal, voiced concerns regarding over-regulation.

He cautioned that excessive legal requirements and compliance frameworks may hinder social and economic life, potentially limiting both individual freedoms and corporate activity.

A major portion of the conference was dedicated to artificial intelligence and its rapidly expanding presence in the legal domain.

Experts explored how AI can support judicial decision-making, improve efficiency and strengthen systems that rely heavily on accurate data analysis.

Prof. Gong Baihua of Fudan University highlighted the benefits of predictive technologies used in risk assessment.

He noted that these systems provide judges with vast datasets and deep analytical capabilities, enhancing the speed and quality of preventative legal measures.

However, Baihua also underscored the importance of addressing risks such as algorithmic bias.

He stressed that any AI used in judicial processes must remain subject to strong legal and ethical frameworks to ensure fairness and accountability.

Prof. Jerome Abrams, a member of the Litigation Section council of the American Bar Association, discussed ongoing efforts to develop constitutional artificial intelligence.

He described this work as a major challenge that requires careful coordination between legal authorities, technologists and policy makers.

Judicial cooperation between countries was another key focus of the conference.

Speakers addressed the complexities of cross-border legal processes and the need for adaptable frameworks that facilitate collaboration among international partners.

Michael Wilderspin, former legal advisor to the European Commission, pointed to difficulties that emerged after the UK’s exit from the European Union.

He noted that while years of EU membership strengthened cooperation in civil and commercial legal matters, new inconsistencies have appeared between English and European laws.

Arbitration was also highlighted as an area where global progress is evident.

Nicolas Rouiller, lawyer and partner at SwissLegal Roeller and Associes, explained that arbitration has become increasingly universal, with 172 countries adhering to or respecting the New York Convention on the Enforcement of Arbitration.

Rouiller emphasized that cooperation between courts and arbitrators remains essential for efficiency.

He noted that courts facilitate enforcement and bring parties together, while arbitrators help reduce pressure on judicial staff and improve the speed of dispute resolution mechanisms.

The conference concluded with calls for continued research, stronger collaboration among nations and the development of balanced regulatory frameworks that support innovation without compromising justice.

Experts agreed that AI and preventive justice will remain at the center of global judicial reform efforts in the coming years.

The conference, titled “World of Dates,” will be held from Nov. 25 to Dec. 4 and will bring together specialists from around the world to exchange knowledge and explore solutions for long-term agricultural development.

Organized by the National Center for Palms and Dates at King Saud University, the event returns this year with expanded scientific and commercial programs.

It includes a partnership with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, strengthening the event’s focus on cutting-edge research, food security strategies and future investment opportunities.

The conference carries the theme “Investment and Innovation to Explore New Horizons for the Palm and Date Sector,” highlighting the sector’s strategic value for both national and international markets.

Sessions will explore the latest advancements in agritech, sustainable farming practices and digital transformation in agricultural management.

Central discussions will address challenges linked to palm pests and diseases, bringing global experts together to present new research and practical solutions.

The program will also emphasize the role of smart farming technologies, including precision systems, data-driven irrigation and automated monitoring tools that can boost productivity and improve overall quality.

Post-harvest automation will be a major focus of the event, with speakers highlighting ways to optimize processing, reduce waste and enhance efficiency.

Innovation in sorting, packaging and preservation technologies will be presented as essential steps toward strengthening the circular economy within the date industry.

A number of pioneering research studies and development initiatives will be showcased, including those nominated for the National Center for Palms and Dates Award.

These contributions are expected to highlight progress in biotechnology, sustainable practices and environmental resilience for palm cultivation.

The exhibition component will be open to the public free of charge from 4–11 p.m. daily, offering visitors a comprehensive experience through region-themed pavilions that showcase the Kingdom’s diverse date varieties and cultural heritage.

Each pavilion will highlight regional identities, farming traditions and agricultural techniques that have shaped the sector over generations.

An independent exhibitors’ area will provide space for companies, farmers and entrepreneurs to present processed date products, new technologies and market innovations.
A live-cooking zone supervised by Saudi and international chefs will allow visitors to experience culinary creations centered around dates.

The event will also feature a dedicated restaurant and cafe area serving local and international dishes made with Saudi dates, reflecting their rising global appeal.
A handicrafts area will display products and artwork connected to palms and dates, shining a spotlight on the deep cultural ties embedded in the sector.

Visitors can explore the Palm Heritage Museum, an immersive experience that traces the history of palm cultivation and the evolution of the date industry.

The museum highlights traditional practices, technological advancements and the significant role dates have played in social and economic development.

Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in the date market.
In 2024, the Kingdom ranked first in global date exports, reaching 133 countries and achieving export values of SR1.695 billion ($452 million) with production exceeding 1.9 million tonnes.

The conference aims to build on this momentum by exploring global partnerships, enhancing investment opportunities and promoting sustainable practices across the entire value chain.

With its focus on innovation and collaboration, the event is expected to support long-term growth and reaffirm the Kingdom’s global leadership in the date industry.