Cybersecurity Compliance In Saudi Arabia: Challenges And Penalties

Introduction

Saudi Arabia's focus on cybersecurity is longstanding. Before the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) in October 2017, there were already two national centers for information security, one under the Ministry of Interior and another under the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Both centers were later transferred to the NCA after its formation.

The Kingdom's emphasis on cybersecurity is underscored by the fact that the NCA reports directly to the King, the ultimate reference of the three branches of government. The government has worked to empower the Authority to create a secure national cyberspace, issuing the necessary policies and regulatory frameworks, and fostering an environment that attracts talent and specialized companies. These collective efforts have made the Kingdom a global leader in cybersecurity. The 2025 IMD World Digital Competitiveness Report ranks Saudi Arabia first worldwide in