Saudi Arabia publishes data monetization policy

Saudi Arabia's Official Gazette has published the details of data monetization policy approved by the board of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA).

The policy aims to support the growth of the Kingdom's data market and promote a data-driven economy by enabling the development and delivery of products and services based on the collection, processing and reuse of data by government or private entities.

It applies to government data used in the development, provision or utilization of data products and services, including data accessed by private-sector entities when performing tasks on behalf of government agencies. Government data classified as "Confidential" or above are excluded from the policy's scope.

The policy seeks to regulate key aspects of Saudi Arabia's data market by establishing principles and rules governing the development and commercialization of data-based products and services derived from government-generated data, while maximizing their economic value and use across sectors.

It also aims to support the market through a range of enablers, including registration mechanisms, regulatory sandboxes, data licensing frameworks, market platforms and guidance on data monetization models.

The policy is built around seven core principles: recognizing data as a national asset, revenue generation, privacy by design, promoting open data, fostering a culture of data sharing, preventing monopolistic practices and ensuring transparency.