Licensing Framework For Cybersecurity Services In Saudi Arabia: Public Feedback Sought By NCA

The National Cybersecurity Authority has asked the public and sector stakeholders to share views on the "Regulatory Framework for Licensing Cybersecurity Services, Products, and Solutions." The draft framework aims to regulate providers, support growth of the cybersecurity market in Saudi Arabia, and improve protection of national security and key national interests.

According to the National Cybersecurity Authority, the framework defines licensing conditions for all organisations that offer cybersecurity services, products, or technical solutions in Saudi Arabia. It covers providers already active in the market and those planning to start operations, ensuring a consistent and clear approach for all participants.

The document sets a common classification for the cybersecurity sector, designed in line with recognised global standards and methods. It introduces a detailed taxonomy for "Regulatory Framework for Licensing Cybersecurity Services, Products, and Solutions," organising activities and offerings so that entities and regulators can refer to a unified structure across the Kingdom.

Within this taxonomy, the National Cybersecurity Authority splits the cybersecurity market into five main domains and 25 sub-domains. These categories together cover more than 100 different cybersecurity services and products, helping ensure that the "Regulatory Framework for Licensing Cybersecurity Services, Products, and Solutions" addresses the full range of activities carried out by providers.

The five domains under the "Regulatory Framework for Licensing Cybersecurity Services, Products, and Solutions" are cybersecurity products and solutions, professional cybersecurity services, cybersecurity technical implementation services, managed cybersecurity services, and cybersecurity training and capacity-building services. Each domain includes several sub-domains that describe specific service areas, training activities, or product types that may require a licence.

The National Cybersecurity Authority notes that this regulatory effort continues earlier steps to organise the sector. Previous measures included publishing a register of approved cybersecurity service, solution, and product providers, and granting licences to companies allowed to operate Managed Security Operations Center services at Tier 1 and Tier 2 levels within Saudi Arabia.

The "Regulatory Framework for Licensing Cybersecurity Services, Products, and Solutions" also reflects the National Cybersecurity Authority role in setting national cybersecurity policies, governance rules, standards, and directives. Through this framework, the authority seeks to improve service quality, increase reliability for national entities, and create an environment that supports innovation and investment in cybersecurity activities.

The National Cybersecurity Authority invited interested parties to examine the framework text and submit feedback by Thursday. Responses can be shared through the Public Consultation Platform "Istitlaa" or by filling the feedback form on the authority’s website and sending it to [email protected], with the document also available on the official website.

With inputs from SPA