Data Regulation and Cybersecurity

In today's interconnected world, privacy and data protection are essential for building trust and security, enabling individuals, businesses, and governments to thrive in the digital era. Recognizing the critical importance of safeguarding personal information, the Kingdom is committed to creating a secure, privacy-centric digital ecosystem that respects citizens' rights, fosters innovation, and protects national interests against evolving cyber threats. This vision is realized through comprehensive legislation, innovative technologies, and transparent governance practices. Key initiatives include enacting robust data protection laws, establishing a national data protection authority to ensure compliance and enforcement, and launching public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on their privacy rights and responsibilities.

Policies and strategies

Pillar of the National Strategy for Data and AI

Saudi Arabia recognizes data as a vital national asset and an enabler of its transformation into a global hub for data and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Embedded within the National Strategy for Data and AI (NSDAI), data protection plays a crucial role in ensuring the secure, ethical, and effective use of data to unlock economic and social value. The strategy is structured around six dimensions that collectively shape the Kingdom's ambition to lead globally in data and AI.

Key Dimensions Relevant to Data Protection:

• Policies and Regulations: Saudi Arabia is committed to creating an adaptive, business-friendly regulatory environment supporting ethical data and AI practices. This includes robust frameworks for data privacy, security, and ethical AI use.
• Ecosystem and Infrastructure: A strong infrastructure supports the secure management of data as a national asset, promoting responsible data sharing and enabling the development of innovative solutions.

Objectives for Data Protection:

• Safeguard Individual Privacy: Ensuring that data collection, sharing, and processing adhere to high standards of protection and respect for individual rights.
• Promote Ethical AI Development: Establishing guidelines for the ethical use of AI technologies, ensuring fairness, accountability, and the protection of personal data.
• Enable Data-Driven Innovation: Facilitating access to secure and high-quality data to foster innovation while upholding privacy and data protection principles.

To explore the Kingdom's strategy, objectives, targets, and privacy and data protection achievements, please visit the National Strategy for Data and AI (NSDAI) website.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

The Kingdom's Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL), issued under Royal Decree No. (M/19) dated 09/02/1443 AH (16/09/2021 G) and amended by Royal Decree No. (M/148), dated 05/09/1444 AH (27/03/2023 G), establishes a comprehensive framework for safeguarding personal data. Supported by its Implementing Regulation of the PDPL and the Regulation on Personal Data Transfer Outside the Kingdom, this framework outlines the rights of data subjects, the obligations of data controllers, and the principles governing the lawful processing of personal data.

Scope of PDPL

The PDPL protects personal data processed within the Kingdom or related to individuals residing in the Kingdom, regardless of the method or location of processing. It also extends to the personal data of deceased individuals if such data could identify them or their family members. PDPL applies to: 

• All entities processing personal data of individuals within the Kingdom.
• Entities outside the Kingdom processing personal data related to individuals in the Kingdom.

Statutory Bases for Processing Personal Data

The law establishes strict principles for data processing to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability: 

• Lawfulness, Fairness, and Transparency: Data collection methods must comply with legal provisions, be secure, and avoid deception or coercion.
• Purpose Limitation: Personal data may only be collected for objectives directly related to the controller's legally permissible purposes.
• Data Minimization: Controllers must limit data collection to what is strictly necessary and avoid unnecessary details that could identify the data subject.
• Data Retention: Personal data must be securely destroyed as soon as its intended purpose is fulfilled.
• Data Protection: Controllers are responsible for implementing robust technical, organizational, and administrative measures to safeguard personal data, including during transfer.

Data Subject (Individuals) Rights

The PDPL ensures individuals have control over their personal data through the following rights: 

• Right to Be Informed: Individuals have the right to know the purpose of data collection, the legal basis, the entities involved, and whether their data will be processed outside the Kingdom.
• Right to Access Personal Data: Individuals can request a clear, readable copy of their personal data from the controller.
• Right to Correct Data: Individuals can request corrections, updates, or completion of incomplete personal data.
• Right to Request Data Destruction: Individuals can request the destruction of data that is no longer needed.
• Right to Withdraw Consent: Consent to process personal data can be withdrawn at any time except in legally specified circumstances.

By fostering a regulatory environment that safeguards personal data and promotes transparency, Saudi Arabia ensures a sustainable and ethical data ecosystem aligned with its Vision 2030 goals.

For detailed procedural guidelines, compliance resources, and insights to help organizations align with the law, refer to the Procedural Manuals, Guidelines, Rules, and the Frequently Asked Questions related to the PDPL.

Institutional Framework

Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA)

The Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) serves as the Kingdom's authoritative body for all matters related to data and artificial intelligence (AI), including big data. SDAIA is the national reference for organizing, developing, and overseeing the use of data and AI across sectors. With a mandate encompassing operations, research, and innovation, SDAIA is committed to driving transformative advancements, fostering public trust, and attracting both local and global investment in data and AI initiatives.

National Data Management Office (NDMO)

Operating under SDAIA, the National Data Management Office (NDMO) plays a vital role in positioning data as a strategic national asset. NDMO establishes and enforces the standards, policies, and regulatory frameworks necessary to uphold the Kingdom's data protection objectives while ensuring compliance and alignment across sectors.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing regulatory frameworks to ensure robust data privacy and security.
• Promoting open data policies that balance transparency with the protection of individual and national interests.
• Enhancing stakeholder awareness and compliance through guidelines, training, and advisory services.

By fostering a secure and innovation-friendly environment, SDAIA and NDMO collectively empower the Kingdom to leverage data and AI responsibly while advancing its vision of becoming a global leader in the field.

National Data Governance Platform

The National Data Governance Platform is a cornerstone of the Kingdom's data management and governance strategy. It is an advanced electronic platform designed to safeguard personal data, protect individuals' rights, and uphold national data sovereignty. The platform offers a wide range of services and tools to assist entities across the public, private, and non-profit sectors, as well as individuals, in complying with the PDPL and its Implementing Regulations. By enabling compliance assessments, addressing complaints, and providing advisory services, the platform ensures the effective implementation of data protection laws.

eServices

The platform provides a variety of electronic services to support effective data governance and compliance:

• Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA): Assists entities in analyzing the impact of processing personal data in their services or products, identifies risks associated with personal data processing, and proposes measures to mitigate them.
• Personal Data Breach Notification: Allows entities to report data breaches within 72 hours of discovery, as required by Article (24) of the PDPL's Implementing Regulations.
• Legal Support: Provides guidance on PDPL provisions, assisting government entities in understanding and fulfilling their obligations.
• Complaint Submission: Enables individuals to file formal complaints against entities that violate PDPL, ensuring accountability and redress.

Specialized Tools

The platform includes advanced tools to assist entities in maintaining compliance with data protection standards: 

• DPO Appointment Guiding Tool: Helps organizations determine whether appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO) is mandatory, in line with Articles (30) and (32) of the PDPL and its Implementing Regulations.
• Self-Assessment Tool: Enables entities to evaluate their compliance with PDPL requirements and identify areas for improvement.
• AI Ethics Assessment Tool: Assists organizations in ensuring their AI technologies adhere to ethical standards, promoting responsible and transparent AI practices.

For more information and resources, visit the NDMO website or access the platform directly here.

Saudi Arabia is committed to enhancing data interoperability across its digital ecosystem to streamline government services, improve data exchange, and foster collaboration. Through various initiatives, including the development of frameworks and standards, the Kingdom ensures the seamless integration of systems within government entities. This enables more efficient service delivery, facilitates cross-government data exchange, and supports the broader goals of digital transformation in alignment with Vision 2030.

Policies and strategies

The Data Sharing Policy aims to ensure the efficient and secure sharing of government data to enhance service delivery. It defines the conditions under which data is shared, specifying data retention periods, access controls, and how data should be used for various government functions. The policy provides a clear framework for data sharing, ensuring that it complies with national security, privacy laws, and public service objectives while enabling better resource management across governmental entities.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Digital Government Regulatory Framework

The Digital Government Regulatory Framework governs interoperability, data exchange, and the Once-Only Principle, ensuring that citizens, institutions, and businesses only provide standard information to government authorities once. This framework emphasizes streamlined data sharing across agencies to enhance service delivery and efficiency. One of the key principles of the Framework is the Once-Only Principle first (or interoperability-by-default).

National Interoperability Framework

The Interoperability Framework defines common data standards, metadata standards, and technical guidelines to ensure seamless data integration across government systems. It mandates the adoption of national interoperability standards, focusing on data definitions, data structures, and technical policies to support the integration of services across government agencies.

National Interoperability Standards 

The National Interoperability Standard, updated in 2019, provides critical guidelines for data sharing and system integration across Saudi government entities. This standard outlines the necessary data structures, interoperability requirements, and regulations to enable effective data exchange. It is part of the broader Yesser initiative and focuses on ensuring the portability, reusability, and integration of government services, significantly enhancing the Kingdom's data-driven governance and service delivery.

eHealth Interoperability Standards 

In healthcare, Saudi Arabia has developed eHealth Interoperability Standards (IS0010 and IS0003) to enable secure data sharing across health information systems. These standards, such as those for immunization records and laboratory results, ensure that health data can be exchanged efficiently and securely between different healthcare entities. This is vital for improving patient care and guaranteeing interoperability within the health sector.

Government Service Bus (GSB) 

The Government Service Bus (GSB) is a key enabler of Saudi Arabia's digital transformation, facilitating seamless, secure, and efficient data exchange among government entities. Managed by the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA), the GSB supports over 240 integrated services, processes over 4 billion transactions annually, and connects 220 beneficiaries, including ministries, authorities, and public institutions. 

As a backbone for e-government transactions, the GSB streamlines the exchange of essential data, such as commercial registries, health records, real estate data, and enterprise licenses, all while ensuring data security and privacy. The platform is designed to improve the performance of government services by reducing service delivery time, simplifying the integration of new services, and offering a more responsive digital government infrastructure.

Infrastructure and Cybersecurity

The GSB's robust infrastructure includes network components, servers, and licenses integrated with the National Information Center's (NIC) monitoring systems like the Network Operations Center (NOC) and a Security Operations Center (SOC). It complies with cybersecurity controls set by the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) and follows governance and compliance standards.

Key Features and Services

• Publishing Platform: Enables government entities to publish their services.
• Inter-entity Integration: Facilitates access to shared services through a unified platform
• 24/7 Technical Support: Offers round-the-clock assistance to beneficiaries.
• Flexibility: Allows modification or cancellation of services as needed.

Achievements and Statistics

• Connecting 220 beneficiaries (government entities)
• More than 240 services deployed
• More than 595 operations have been deployed
• Granting approximately 13120 authorizations to beneficiaries
• More than 4 billion operations have been monitored since the beginning of 2023

More information, including a list of services and beneficiaries, is available on SDAIA's website. 

Once Only Principle

The Once-Only Principle is actively implemented in Saudi Arabia through a robust legal framework and advanced digital infrastructure. Enshrined in the Digital Government Regulatory Framework, the principle ensures that citizens and businesses only provide their information to government authorities once, streamlining administrative processes and enhancing user experience.

This implementation is supported by national cybersecurity, privacy, and interoperability standards, enabling secure data sharing among government entities. Platforms such as the GSB facilitate this data exchange, ensuring that collected information is reused across agencies and eliminating redundancy in service delivery.

Institutional Framework

Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA)

SDAIA is responsible for establishing and maintaining the national interoperability infrastructure, including the GSB. SDAIA plays a critical role in implementing data standards and interoperability frameworks and ensuring easy integration of government systems.

National Data Center (NIC)

Operating under SDAIA, the National Data Center (NIC) supports this initiative by providing essential infrastructure for secure data exchange, ensuring the reliability and scalability of e-government services across the Kingdom.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is deeply committed to fostering transparency, accountability, and the free flow of information as key pillars of effective governance and public trust. Through comprehensive policies and frameworks, the government ensures open access to information, promoting civic engagement, innovation, and inclusive decision-making. This dedication is reflected in initiatives such as open data platforms, privacy protections, and regulations that align with global best practices, advancing the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives of creating a transparent, knowledge-based society.

Policies and strategies

Freedom of Information Policy

Saudi Arabia's Freedom of Information Policy ensures the public's right to access unprotected government data, promoting transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making. It applies to all forms of recorded information produced by public entities, except for protected categories like national security, personal data, or intellectual property. The policy guarantees individuals the right to access information, reasons for denial, and the ability to appeal decisions. 

Public entities must establish clear procedures for processing requests, classify data accurately, and comply with transparency obligations. The policy aligns with open data programs to proactively publish information, reducing the need for individual access requests and enhancing government efficiency. By balancing openness with security and privacy protections, this policy supports Saudi Arabia's commitment to a transparent and innovative government. 

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Freedom of Information Regulations

The Freedom of Information Regulations outline the processes and requirements for accessing government-held information. These regulations emphasize the public's right to transparency while balancing the need to protect classified or sensitive information. They mandate that public entities establish frameworks for processing information requests, ensuring timely responses, and defining the circumstances under which information may be withheld, such as national security or privacy concerns. 

These regulations complement broader national efforts to promote openness, innovation, and accountability while adhering to legal safeguards. For further details, refer to the National Data Governance Policies document.

Individuals' Rights to Obtain Information

Every individual has the right to request access to unprotected public information related to government activities, subject to a nominal fee. There are no restrictions based on the requester's personal interest or legal status, fostering transparency and accountability. Key rights include:

• The right to request access to any unprotected public information.
• The right to be informed of the reasons for a request denial.
• The right to challenge the denial of access through a grievance process. 

All requests are handled impartially, and any restrictions on access to protected information must be clearly justified.

What Information Can Be Requested?

The regulation applies to all requests for access to "unprotected and open data," regardless of its source, form, or nature, to improve work efficiency and benefit from data. Excluded from this are "protected" categories such as national security information, confidential or personal data, intellectual property, and sensitive commercial or financial details. The regulation also covers government-related information, scientific research, military and security data, as well as classified documents under international agreements or related to criminal investigations.

Obligations of Public Entities

Public entities are responsible for implementing policies and procedures regarding access to public information. They must establish units linked to data management offices to document and monitor the right to access information. These entities provide accessible forms for public information requests and verify individuals' identities, ensuring compliance with data security standards. They also set fees based on data size and effort involved, track requests, and manage records according to laws. Awareness programs are developed to promote transparency, and compliance is regularly monitored with corrective actions for non-compliance.

Institutional Framework

Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA)

The Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) is the Kingdom's authoritative body for all data and artificial intelligence (AI) matters, including big data. SDAIA is the national reference for organizing, developing, and overseeing the use of data and AI across sectors. With a mandate encompassing operations, research, and innovation, SDAIA is committed to driving transformative advancements, fostering public trust, and attracting both local and global investment in data and AI initiatives.

National Data Management Office (NDMO)

Operating under SDAIA, the National Data Management Office (NDMO) plays a vital role in positioning data as a strategic national asset. NDMO establishes and enforces the standards, policies, and regulatory frameworks necessary to uphold the Kingdom's open data protection objectives while ensuring compliance and alignment across sectors.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing regulatory frameworks to ensure robust data privacy and security.
• Promoting open data policies that balance transparency with the protection of individual and national interests.
• Enhancing stakeholder awareness and compliance through guidelines, training, and advisory services.

By fostering a secure and innovation-friendly environment, SDAIA and NDMO collectively empower the Kingdom to leverage data and AI responsibly while advancing its vision of becoming a global leader in the field.

Open government and open data are vital for fostering transparency, accountability, and innovation in the digital age. The Kingdom is dedicated to building an open, collaborative digital environment that empowers citizens, businesses, and government entities while enhancing public trust and enabling data-driven decision-making. Supported by strategic initiatives, advanced technologies, and inclusive governance frameworks, the Kingdom is establishing a robust open data ecosystem through national platforms, comprehensive regulations for responsible data sharing, and public awareness efforts. By prioritizing transparency and collaboration, the Kingdom aims to drive sustainable economic and social development, foster civic engagement, and advance its Vision 2030 goals of creating a knowledge-based society.

Policies and strategies

Open Data Policy

Saudi Arabia's Open Data Policy, part of its National Data Governance Policies, demonstrates its commitment to transparency, innovation, and inclusive development. Covering all unprotected public data from government entities, the policy ensures data is open by default, machine-readable, regularly updated, comprehensive, and free of charge, empowering stakeholders to use open data for economic, social, and innovative purposes. It also promotes improved governance and citizen engagement by fostering open data reuse to enhance decision-making, accountability, and public service delivery. Overseen by the National Data Management Office (NDMO), the policy supports compliance, provides guidance, and facilitates access to data through the National Open Data Portal, the Kingdom's central platform for open data resources.

Open Data Strategy

The Open Data Strategy aims to provide high-value, reusable open data to enhance efficiency and transparency and foster social innovation while enabling a data-driven economy. This goal is being achieved through the implementation of 26 initiatives that cover areas such as awareness and capability building, local and international partnerships, and the enhancement of technology and infrastructure. The strategy focuses on maximizing open data's economic and social impact, directly supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives.

Led by the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA), the Open Data Strategy transitions from an "open by default" model to a more purposeful approach of "publishing with purpose." It is structured around four key strategic objectives: promoting economic growth, improving governance clarity, raising awareness, and prioritizing accessible, high-quality datasets. By integrating advanced capabilities such as governance mechanisms and technological infrastructure, the strategy aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and a sustainable data-driven economy. With initiatives like the enhancement of the National Open Data Portal, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a global leader in open data utilization and innovation. 

The previous Open Data Strategy (2019-2021) is available at the following link.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Open Data Regulations

The Open Data Regulations are designed to maximize the value of government data by promoting transparency, innovation, and economic growth. The regulations apply to all non-sensitive public data generated by government entities, encouraging its availability for public access while ensuring responsible handling and privacy protections. These regulations aim to establish clear guidelines for data classification, publication, and access, aligning with global standards to foster trust and collaboration between the government and its stakeholders. The regulations require public entities to make their data accessible in machine-readable formats, free of charge, and easily discoverable. The regulations also provide a framework for compliance, ensuring data is responsibly shared while protecting sensitive and personal information.

Institutional Framework

Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA)

The Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) serves as the Kingdom's authoritative body for all matters related to data and artificial intelligence (AI), including big data. SDAIA is the national reference for organizing, developing, and overseeing the use of data and AI across sectors. With a mandate encompassing operations, research, and innovation, SDAIA is committed to driving transformative advancements, fostering public trust, and attracting both local and global investment in data and AI initiatives.

National Data Management Office (NDMO)

Operating under SDAIA, the National Data Management Office (NDMO) plays a vital role in positioning data as a strategic national asset. NDMO establishes and enforces the standards, policies, and regulatory frameworks necessary to uphold the Kingdom's open data protection objectives while ensuring compliance and alignment across sectors.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing regulatory frameworks to ensure robust data privacy and security.
• Promoting open data policies that balance transparency with the protection of individual and national interests.
• Enhancing stakeholder awareness and compliance through guidelines, training, and advisory services.

By fostering a secure and innovation-friendly environment, SDAIA and NDMO collectively empower the Kingdom to leverage data and AI responsibly while advancing its vision of becoming a global leader in the field.

Open Data Platform

The Saudi Open Data Platform serves as a central platform for accessing and utilizing government data, fostering transparency, innovation, and public participation. It provides an integrative database of open government data, enabling citizens, businesses, and developers to access, view, and benefit from datasets produced by ministries and government agencies. Users can explore a wide range of datasets through various search options, including organizations, groups, tags, and formats. The portal also offers GIS (Geographic Information Systems) data, allowing users to interact with location-based information. Additionally, citizens can request new datasets through the dataset request function, encouraging ongoing engagement with government data.

The portal is supported by an Open Data Repository that acts as a register (metadata) of all datasets available on the platform, including detailed metadata standards as outlined in the Data Quality Guideline. Each government entity is required to maintain an inventory of its datasets, ensuring data is easily discoverable and accessible. To promote openness, all datasets published on the portal are governed by an Open Data License, which permits users to share, modify, and reuse the data freely, provided they attribute the source appropriately. The Open Data Portal also includes Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), offering developers the tools to create new applications and services. Real-time data from various government platforms is also available, enabling continuous access to up-to-date information. For further details on using APIs and accessing real-time data, please refer to the relevant Developers Guideline.

National Data Bank

The National Data Bank (NDB), developed by SDAIA, is a robust ecosystem of interconnected platforms that drive data literacy, promote data governance, and accelerate the Kingdom's transition to a digital economy. This initiative supports the effective management of data as a strategic national asset and comprises six specialized platforms to serve both the general public and government entities.

Data Lake

The Data Lake is a national-scale, centralized repository consolidating disparate data silos into a unified system. Designed with advanced, scalable infrastructure, it integrates and refines raw data into standardized datasets that comply with national data standards. These datasets enable secure sharing and self-service analytics, empowering data-driven decision-making. With over 60 government agencies and 300 systems integrated, the Data Lake offers:

• Flexible, scalable storage for diverse data types.
• Secure, large-scale data transmission.
• Full transparency through data lineage and audits.
• Integration with the Data Marketplace for seamless data sharing.

Data Marketplace

The Data Marketplace provides a secure platform for data sharing and monetization, enabling efficient transactions between data providers and consumers. It supports flexible trust models and fosters visibility into the national data ecosystem. Designed for government entities, it offers:

• Consumer onboarding and API discovery.
• Scalable and innovative data-sharing interfaces.
• Flexible monetization options for data assets.

National Data Catalog

The National Data Catalog serves as an inventory of metadata from government agencies, accelerating data democratization and fostering a culture of self-service data exploration. The catalog provides tools for:

• Discovering and understanding national data assets.
• Ensuring data trust through lineage and provenance.
• Optimizing data governance and compliance.

Reference Data Management (RDM)

The RDM platform ensures standardized, accurate, and interoperable reference data across government entities. By aligning with national data standards, the platform enhances data quality and interoperability. Key services include:

• Centralized reference data management.
• Automated quality controls and workflows.
• Distribution of reference data via the Data Marketplace.

Data Labs

The Collaborative Data Labs foster innovation by enabling government agencies to experiment with data-driven solutions and analytics. Through advanced tools and collaborative environments, the labs support:

• Data discovery and prototyping.
• Self-service analytics with augmented technologies.
• Collaboration for testing hypotheses and co-creating solutions.

By integrating these platforms, the National Data Bank creates a unified ecosystem that supports national data governance, drives innovation, and advances Saudi Arabia's digital economy.

Open Data Events, News and Success Stories

The Open Data Portal features the latest and most significant Open Data Events, News, and Success Stories, offering valuable insights into the Kingdom's open data initiatives and achievements. These resources highlight ongoing efforts and collaborations to advance transparency, innovation, and the data-driven economy. 

Cybersecurity is crucial to national resilience, trust, and economic growth in an interconnected world. Saudi Arabia is dedicated to securing its digital infrastructure through comprehensive strategies, cutting-edge technologies, and regulatory frameworks. These measures aim to protect citizens, businesses, and institutions from evolving threats while fostering awareness, capacity building, and global collaboration. By balancing innovation with strong safeguards, the Kingdom seeks to establish a resilient and secure digital ecosystem aligned with Vision 2030. 

Policies and strategies

National Cybersecurity Strategy

The National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) developed the National Cybersecurity Strategy to bolster Saudi Arabia's cybersecurity resilience, foster trust, and support national growth and prosperity. The strategy envisions a resilient, secure, and trusted cyberspace that promotes economic and societal development.

Grounded in six pillars - Unify, Manage, Assure, Defend, Partner, and Build - the strategy introduces an integrated cybersecurity framework aligned with international best practices. It focuses on: 

• Enhancing cybersecurity maturity.
• Protecting networks, systems, and data.
• Fostering awareness of cybersecurity responsibilities.
• Promoting innovation through job creation, capability building, and research incentives.

The strategy delineates roles and responsibilities for government entities, the private sector, and both national and international communities. It establishes four national frameworks to achieve its goals: Risk Management, Information Sharing, Incident Response, and Capability Building.

Implementation spans five years across three tracks: 

• High-Return Projects: Immediate-impact initiatives to raise cybersecurity maturity.
• Catalyst Program: Elevating cybersecurity standards across national organizations.
• Long-Term Initiatives: Strategic projects with enduring national benefits.

By collaborating with stakeholders and under the NCA's leadership, Saudi Arabia is building a secure digital ecosystem that ensures growth and prosperity.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Anti-Cyber Crime Law

Saudi Arabia's Anti-Cyber Crime Law, enacted in 2007 and revised in 2015, lays the foundation for combating cybercrime. The law addresses unauthorized access, data interference, fraud, and forgery while safeguarding users' rights, ensuring secure data exchange, and upholding public morals and privacy. This legislation is a cornerstone for securing the Kingdom's cyberspace.

Cybersecurity Controls

Complementing the legal framework, the NCA has introduced the Essential Cybersecurity Controls (ECC) to guide government entities and Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) organizations. 

• ECC-1: 2018: Established minimum cybersecurity requirements.
• ECC-2: 2024: Updated to address emerging cyber threats with an expanded scope, enhanced controls, and alignment with international standards like the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO/IEC 27001.

This revised framework expands its scope to include financial institutions and private entities hosting CNI, enhances controls to address emerging threats like ransomware and phishing, emphasizes risk management practices, and aligns with global standards such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO/IEC 27001.

Please visit the NCA's website for additional details on cybersecurity policies, controls, frameworks, and guidelines.

Cybersecurity Regulatory Framework (telecommunication sector)

Aligned with the Telecommunications Act, the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) developed a Cybersecurity Regulatory Framework (CRF) to enhance the cybersecurity maturity of Saudi Arabia's Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. The CRF establishes robust measures to safeguard public interest, protect user data, and secure telecommunications information. It also outlines specific cybersecurity requirements for Service Providers to meet minimum standards, while CNI entities must also adhere to the NCA's Essential Cybersecurity Controls. 

Institutional Framework

National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA)

Established in 2017, the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) is the Kingdom's national authority for cybersecurity. Its mission includes safeguarding vital interests, critical infrastructure, and government services. While overseeing national cybersecurity frameworks, the NCA emphasizes that entities remain responsible for their own cybersecurity compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Developing and implementing the national cybersecurity strategy.
• Managing cybersecurity risks across critical infrastructure and priority sectors.
• Operating national cybersecurity centers for monitoring, incident response, and information exchange.
• Building national cybersecurity capacities through training, licensing, and professional standards.
• Representing Saudi Arabia in global cybersecurity matters.
• Promoting innovation and optimizing cybersecurity investments.

Saudi Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT)

As part of the NCA, the Saudi Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) enhances cybersecurity awareness, issues warnings about emerging threats, and mitigates vulnerabilities. It also leads awareness campaigns, collaborates with global response teams, and provides timely resources.

For updates on security warnings or security awareness materials, visit the Saudi CERT website. 

Haseen: National Portal for Cybersecurity Services

The Haseen National Portal empowers entities and individuals by providing state-of-the-art cybersecurity platforms. Its objectives include:

• Strengthening national cybersecurity infrastructure.
• Enabling entities to achieve their cybersecurity goals.
• Optimizing government spending in cybersecurity.
• Promoting local cybersecurity expertise.

Haseen offers 14 tailored services for public and private sector entities as well as individuals, fostering a comprehensive and resilient cybersecurity ecosystem. 

National Programs and Initiatives

Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones

The Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones (SAFCSP) is a national institution committed to empowering the workforce in cybersecurity, software development, drones, and advanced technologies. Its strategy is built on three pillars:

• Inspiration: Inspiring innovators through initiatives and events.
• Empowerment: Providing skills training, enabling tools, and investment opportunities.
• Sustainability: Supporting employment and startup development for beneficiaries.

As part of its mission, SAFCSP organizes events, boot camps, and educational seminars to enhance cybersecurity skills and capacities across the Kingdom. It has also developed four key platforms:

• BugBounty: Connecting ethical hackers with organizations to identify vulnerabilities.
• CyberHub: Offering educational resources for cybersecurity learning.
• Satr: Providing specialized programming courses.
• CoderHub: Hosting challenges and competitions to foster innovation.

Through these efforts, the SAFCSP drives growth in Saudi Arabia's cybersecurity sector, fostering a skilled and innovative workforce.