Saudi Arabia has modernized its intellectual property framework through the enactment of a new Copyright Law pursuant to Royal Decree No. M/169, published in the Official Gazette (Umm Al-Qura) on February 13, 2026. This legislation replaces the Copyright Law of 2003 and aligns the Kingdom’s regime with international standards, digital economy requirements, and the objectives of Vision 2030.
The new law is scheduled to enter into force in 12 August 2026 (approximately 180 days after publication). During this transitional period, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) is expected to issue detailed Implementing Regulations. Until the effective date, the 2003 framework, supplemented by existing SAIP regulations, continues to apply.
