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PDPL Compliance in UAE & Saudi Arabia
Your customers trust you with their data. The UAE and Saudi Arabia have made it clear: protecting that data is not just good business—it’s the law.
UAE PDPL (Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021) / Saudi PDPL (Issued by SDAIA, 2021)
Applies to all entities that process personal data in the UAE or about UAE residents, aiming to protect data privacy while enabling innovation and responsible use.
Saudi Arabia’s PDPL regulates the collection, use, and storage of personal data—applicable to both public and private sector entities operating inside or outside the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia’s PDPL regulates the collection, use, and storage of personal data—applicable to both public and private sector entities operating inside or outside the Kingdom.
Our PDPL Compliance Services
PDPL Readiness Assessment
We benchmark your current data practices against PDPL requirements in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, helping you understand where you stand—and where to go next.
Privacy Governance Framework
We design or refine your internal policies, including data protection, privacy notices, consent management, and data subject rights handling.
Data Mapping & RoPA
We help you map out your data flows and create Records of Processing Activities (RoPA) to demonstrate compliance and streamline audits.
Security & Privacy by Design
Our experts implement technical and organizational measures to protect personal data at every stage of its lifecycle.
DPIAs & Risk Assessments
We perform Data Protection Impact Assessments for high-risk processing, ensuring you’re making informed, legally sound decisions.
Cross-Border Data Transfer Advisory
We guide you through lawful ways to transfer data across borders, using contracts, consent models, or regulator-approved mechanisms.
Staff Training & Awareness
We deliver role-specific training for employees, management, and IT teams to build a strong internal culture of privacy and compliance.
Why Choose MAST Consulting?
At MAST Consulting, we bring deep regional expertise in UAE and Saudi PDPL regulations, offering end-to-end support from gap assessment to full implementation. Our approach aligns with global standards like ISO 27701, GDPR, and NIST, ensuring your compliance program is both locally compliant and internationally robust. We provide practical tools, ready-to-use templates, and tailored documentation to accelerate your compliance journey—backed by a proven track record supporting regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology across the GCC.
Why PDPL Matters in UAE & Saudi Arabia
- Mandatory by Law: Compliance with UAE and Saudi PDPLs is legally required for organizations handling personal data.
- Protects Individuals’ Privacy: Safeguards personal and sensitive information, ensuring transparency and user consent.
- Prevents Legal & Financial Risks: Avoid costly penalties, sanctions, and reputational harm from non-compliance.
- Builds Customer Trust: Demonstrates your commitment to data protection, enhancing credibility with clients and partners.
- Enables Cross-Border Operations: Supports lawful data transfers, making it easier to operate across jurisdictions.
- Aligns with Global Standards: Positions your business to meet international frameworks like GDPR, ISO 27701, and NIST.
- Drives Competitive Advantage: Organizations that prioritize privacy stand out in the market and gain customer loyalty.
Not sure where to begin?
Get PDPL Roadmap or Toolkit
Fill out the form and our Privacy experts will reach out within 24 hours to guide you — no obligations, just expert advice
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the PDPL and who does it apply to?
The Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia applies to any organization that collects, processes, or stores personal data related to individuals within those countries. This includes local businesses, international companies operating in the region, and third-party service providers handling personal data.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Non-compliance with PDPL can lead to financial fines, regulatory action, data processing bans, and reputational damage. In Saudi Arabia, penalties can include up to SAR 5 million for serious violations. The UAE also enforces administrative fines and corrective actions through the UAE Data Office.
How is PDPL different from GDPR?
While PDPL and GDPR share similar principles—like data subject rights, consent, and transparency—PDPLs are localized laws tailored to the cultural, legal, and operational context of the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Key differences include cross-border transfer requirements, consent mechanisms, and regulatory bodies (UAE Data Office, SDAIA).
Do we need a Data Protection Officer (DPO)?
Under both UAE and Saudi PDPL, appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO) is required for organizations that process sensitive personal data, conduct high-risk activities, or operate in regulated sectors like finance, healthcare, and government services.
Can personal data be transferred outside the UAE or Saudi Arabia?
Yes, but cross-border data transfers are subject to strict conditions. These may include obtaining explicit consent, using approved contractual clauses, or transferring data only to countries with adequate data protection levels—based on the evaluation of the relevant regulatory authority.