Saudi Data Sandbox Adds Biometric-Data Sub-Track

A new specialized sub-track for biometric data has been added to Saudi Arabia's Data Regulatory Sandbox, giving eligible companies a controlled environment to test products and services that process biometric information. The sub-track operates through the National Data Governance Platform and was announced publicly during the Riyadh Global Medical Biotechnology Summit.

The sub-track is designed to examine regulatory challenges around biometric data and to assess appropriate governance practices under the Personal Data Protection Law and its implementing regulations. Solutions are tested within the main sandbox tracks, with the biometric sub-track providing additional focused oversight.

The program primarily targets micro, small, and medium enterprises registered in Saudi Arabia, classified under national MSME criteria and registered with the Ministry of Commerce. To qualify, use cases must involve personal or biometric data within the scope of the Personal Data Protection Law, be built on privacy-by-design principles and privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs), and come with an operational prototype ready for testing. Ideas still in the planning or design phase are not accepted, and applicants must show a clear need for the sandbox due to uncertainty with current regulatory frameworks.

How to apply

Applications are submitted through the National Data Governance Platform. Applicants access the platform's electronic services, select the Regulatory Sandbox Program, click Start Service, and sign in using نفاذ. Private entities need a commercial registration and must create a delegation via the Saudi Business Center, then import their delegation or sole proprietorship into the platform, complete the required data and documents, and submit for assessment.

Candidates are evaluated on their MSME status, regulatory relevance, readiness of the operational prototype, and demonstrated need for regulatory support. The move gives Saudi startups a safer path to innovate with sensitive biometric technologies while keeping user privacy protected.

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