This study conducted a bibliometric analysis to investigate the evolving trends in the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A total of 2,653 peer-reviewed articles were retrieved from the Scopus database. The results indicate a substantial rise in publications between 2000 and 2024, and a particularly notable growth post-2018 reflecting increasing academic and practical interest. Noteworthy contributors, such as leading journals and influential papers, show the multidisciplinary nature of AI applications in addressing different SDGs. The geographical distribution of research shows that China and India are leading contributors, while the United States shows significant international collaboration. Key themes that arose include ‘machine learning’, ‘deep learning’, and ‘natural language processing’, with a significant focus on ‘sustainability’ and ‘societal concerns’. This study not only enriches comprehension of AI's significance in supporting SDGs but also offers valuable insights for future research, policymaking, and practical application.