On 10 March 2024, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) launched a public consultation for its draft Data Sovereignty Public Policy.Driven by the rapid pace of technological advancements, the transition towards a data-driven economy, and the risks associated with personal data handling, this Policy seeks to establish the fundamental principles and general orientations of Saudi Arabia regarding data sovereignty. It aims to ensure the preservation of the Kingdom’s sovereignty over its data while developing, enabling, and harnessing it.The draft Data Sovereignty Public Policy outlines four key principles:

Data as a National Asset

Data is considered a national asset to be enriched, utilised, and governed. The policy aims to ensure Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty over its data through laws, regulations, and policies.

Data Protection

There is a strong emphasis on data protection, including regulating the hosting, storage, and transfer of non-personal data from government entities and critical national infrastructure operators within Saudi Arabia. There is also an emphasis on regulating personal data collection, processing, and retention by public and private entities, with a focus on preserving individual privacy and protecting against data breaches.

Data Availability

The policy aims to ensure that competent authorities have timely access to data when needed to perform their functions, as well as the appropriate regulation of processing requests from foreign entities to obtain data for law enforcement, security, or judicial purposes.

Encouragement of Local and Foreign Investment

The policy encourages local digital companies and innovation, while also seeking to attract foreign digital investments and prevent monopolistic practices.(more…)