Saudi Arabia introduces new framework to strengthen data protection compliance

The Saudi framework imposes strict guidelines for international data transfers, necessitating safeguards and risk assessments.

Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) outlines a crucial framework for data protection compliance among organisations operating in Saudi Arabia. One key requirement is appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO) for specific entities, particularly public organisations engaged in large-scale personal data processing or those that regularly monitor data subjects.

The DPO must possess the appropriate qualifications and experience in personal data protection to manage data breaches and navigate complex regulatory landscapes effectively. Furthermore, SDAIA mandates that organisations register with the National Data Governance Platform, thus emphasising transparency and accountability in data management practices.

In addition to compliance requirements, the SDAIA outlines strict guidelines for transferring personal data outside Saudi Arabia. For instance, organisations must implement appropriate safeguards, such as standard contractual clauses, to protect the transferred data. Moreover, organisations must conduct risk assessments for these transfers, especially when sensitive data is involved, ensuring that data subjects’ rights are safeguarded.

Furthermore, the SDAIA outlines the importance of developing comprehensive privacy policies that detail the types of personal data collected, the purposes for collection, and the rights of data subjects. Organisations are encouraged to ensure these policies are easily accessible and periodically reviewed to maintain compliance. Additionally, SDAIA stresses the principle of data minimisation, thus requiring organisations to collect only the minimum necessary personal data and to assess what data can be destroyed regularly.