Ensuring Compliance with Saudi Arabia’s Personal Data Protection Law

The Saudi Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) came into force on September 14, 2023, offering businesses a one-year transition period to comply with its provisions. With its broad extraterritorial scope, companies worldwide must recognize its relevance and take appropriate action to ensure compliance. The PDPL's Regulatory Framework The PDPL, introduced by Royal Decree M/19 on September 16, 2021, aims to safeguard personal data within Saudi Arabia. It applies not only to businesses operating within the Kingdom but also to those that handle the personal data of Saudi residents, regardless of their location. To fully understand the law's reach and compliance requirements, businesses must familiarize themselves with the regulatory guidelines established by the Saudi Data & Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA). Personal Data and Sensitive Personal Data Under the PDPL, personal data refers to any information that can identify an individual, such as names, contact details,...