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ARTICLE · 02 MARCH 2026

Saudi Arabia's New Copyright Law: Key Changes And Practical Steps For Businesses

Zamakhchary & Co
Zamakhchary & Co
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Saudi Arabia has issued a new Copyright Law (the Law), replacing the 2003 regime (Royal Decree No. M/41) and introducing a more modern framework for copyright and neighbouring rights. The Law was approved by the Council of Ministers (Decision No. 560) and published in the Official Gazette (Umm Al-Qura) on 13 February 2026.

Saudi ArabiaIntellectual Property
Reina Hashash
Reina Hashash
Marianne Salameh
Marianne Salameh

Royal Decree No. M/169 – published in Umm Al-Qura (Issue 5144)

Saudi Arabia has issued a new Copyright Law (the Law), replacing the 2003 regime (Royal Decree No. M/41) and introducing a more modern framework for copyright and neighbouring rights. The Law was approved by the Council of Ministers (Decision No. 560) and published in the Official Gazette (Umm Al-Qura) on 13 February 2026.

Although many of the Law's concepts will feel familiar, several provisions are likely to materially change contracting practices, enforcement risk and compliance expectations for businesses operating in the Kingdom – particularly in the technology, media, entertainment, publishing, software and platform sectors.

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