Saudi Arabia Cybersecurity Licensing Framework Seeks Public Feedback From National Cybersecurity Authority

The National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) invites the general public to share views on the "Regulatory Framework for Licensing Cybersecurity Services, Products, and Solutions." The consultation aims to support national security, protect vital interests, and improve the reliability of cybersecurity services provided to national entities across the Kingdom, while guiding how organisations offer licensed cybersecurity activities.

The document sets out a unified structure for all cybersecurity services, products, and solutions available in the Kingdom. It introduces a detailed taxonomy that groups sector activities into five main domains and multiple further levels. This approach seeks to align the Saudi cybersecurity market with recognised international methodologies, standards, and classification practices.

The framework identifies five primary domains: cybersecurity products and solutions, professional cybersecurity services, cybersecurity technical implementation services, managed cybersecurity services, and cybersecurity training and capacity-building services. These domains expand into 25 sub-domains. Together, they cover more than 100 defined cybersecurity products and services, providing clear categories for future licensing and regulatory oversight across the national cybersecurity ecosystem.

Under the framework, minimum licensing conditions are specified for any entity wishing to provide cybersecurity services, products, and solutions in the Kingdom. The rules cover organisations already operating in the Saudi cybersecurity services market, as well as entities planning to enter it. The framework forms part of NCA efforts to regulate and advance the sector, supporting growth while maintaining standards for quality and security.

The NCA notes that the framework reflects its wider mandate. This mandate includes setting cybersecurity policies, governance rules, frameworks, standards, and directives, in addition to licensing individuals and non-governmental entities. The authority highlights earlier steps, such as publishing a list of registered cybersecurity service, solution, and product providers, and licensing companies permitted to deliver Managed Security Operations Center (MSOC) services at Tier 1 and Tier 2 levels.

Stakeholders and interested parties are encouraged to review the framework and submit feedback by Thursday. Contributions can be sent through the Public Consultation Platform "Istitlaa" or by completing the feedback form on the NCA website and emailing it to [email protected]. The full document is also available through the NCA official website for detailed examination.

With inputs from SPA