Saudi Arabia’s National Data Governance Interim Regulation

Version 1
June 1st, 2020

The National Data Governance Interim Regulations serve as a framework for data management in Saudi Arabia. It aims to enhance government effectiveness, transparency, and data-driven decision-making. Here’s a brief overview:

Objectives

1. Support national vision: Aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for economic growth and digital transformation.
2. Data sharing culture: Promotes collaboration among government entities to avoid data duplication and improve efficiency.
3. Data classification: Establishes protocols for data classification to manage access and sharing effectively, balancing confidentiality with the need for transparency.
4. Personal data protection: Ensures the privacy of individuals and the security of sensitive data.
5. Open data initiatives: Encourages the publication of non-sensitive government data to foster transparency and innovation.

Key principles

• Open by default: Data should be accessible unless classified otherwise.
• Timely classification: Data should be classified immediately upon creation or receipt.
• Need to know: Access to data is restricted to those who require it for their duties.
• Segregation of duties: Responsibilities for data classification and access should be distinct to reduce conflicts of interest.

Personal data protection

The regulations emphasize accountability, transparency, and consent, ensuring individuals’ rights to control their personal data.

Data sharing

Establishes a structured process for sharing government data, ensuring compliance with defined principles and controls.

These regulations are seen as crucial for promoting responsible data governance, protecting personal information, and enhancing the overall efficiency of governmental data management.