Saudi Arabia has launched a specialized sub-track dedicated to biometric data within the country's Data Regulatory Sandbox. The new sub-track was introduced on 15 September 2026 through a collaboration between the Ministry of National Guard and SDAIA.
The sub-track focuses on innovative products and services that process biometric data. Its main goal is to test biometric-data use cases while assessing the regulatory challenges and governance practices tied to them. Participating products and services are evaluated within the sandbox's main tracks
Applications are submitted through the National Data Governance Platform. The published workflow begins with signing in via نفاذ and completing an authorization process through the Saudi Business Center before submitting the application. Applicants must authorize the entity representative, create an authorization linked to the commercial registration, select SDAIA services, choose the Representation and Registration on the National Data Governance Platform and Completion of Procedures service, open the Data Regulatory Sandbox service, complete the application, attach the required documents, and submit it for assessment.
the application opening date is October 2026. No fee or price is listed in the available published information, and no validity period is stated for this biometric sub-track.
Why it matters
For businesses and innovators working with biometric technologies, the sub-track offers a structured environment to test new solutions while regulators evaluate the appropriate governance and safeguards. This supports the safe and responsible use of sensitive personal data across the Kingdom as digital services continue to expand.
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