Sophia, a robot with human female features that can make facial expressions and hold conversations, debuted at a economic summit in the country’s capital, Riyadh, this week.

"I’m very honoured and proud for this unique distinction", Sophia said, to applause. "This is historical to be the first robot in the world to be recognised with a citizenship.”

An arm of the Saudi Ministry of Culture and Information tweeted its support of the robot, made by Hanson Robotics and appearing as part of the Future Investment Initiative summit.

However Sophia appeared on stage alone, without the modest dress required of Saudi women; she donned no hijab, no headscarf, nor abaya, or cloak.

She also did not appear to have a male guardian, as required by Saudi law for women in the country. Male guardians, often a male relative, must give permission before women can travel abroad, open bank accounts or carry out a host of other tasks - and they accompany women in public.

Sophia has more rights than foreign workers in the Saudi kingdom, many of whom have fled poor working conditions but are legally prevented from leaving the country.