Saudi Regulators Launch Biometric Data Sandbox Track

The Ministry of National Guard and SDAIA launched a new biometric data sub-track on 15 September 2026, operating within the existing Data Regulatory Sandbox. The initiative targets innovative products and services that process biometric data across the Kingdom.

Under the arrangement, participating solutions are tested within the sandbox's main tracks The stated aim is to examine the regulatory challenges tied to biometric data and to assess suitable governance practices before wider deployment.

How to apply

applications open in October 2026. The official process begins at the Saudi Business Center to add authorization, then moves to the National Data Governance Platform to access the Data Regulatory Sandbox service. Sign-in on the sandbox service page references نفاذ (Nafath).

The listed steps are: authorize the entity's representative, create a new authorization, select SDAIA services, choose "Representation and Registration on the National Data Governance Platform and Completion of Procedures," then open the Data Regulatory Sandbox, complete the application, attach the required documents, and submit for assessment.

No application fee, validity period, or recent fee change was shown in the available official material. For residents, businesses, and technology developers, the sub-track signals a clearer regulatory path for testing biometric solutions responsibly, supporting the Kingdom's broader push toward stronger digital governance.

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