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Study on Unified Digital Services Regulation for the Gulf

Developing a roadmap for a unified digital services regulation across Saudi Arabia and the GCC.

Completed

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    • Project Overview

    Project Components

    The three‑month study assessed digital services markets and regulatory frameworks across Saudi Arabia, GCC countries and the European Union. It analysed the EU’s Digital Services Act, mapped responsible authorities, compared market characteristics, identified regulatory gaps and evaluated the impact of adopting similar legislation in the region.

    A. The Challenge

    Digital intermediaries operate across borders without a unified regulatory framework, exposing users to risks and creating uncertainty. Saudi Arabia and GCC countries needed guidance on whether to adopt legislation akin to the EU’s Digital Services Act.

    B. Our Solution

    We reviewed market structures and existing regulations in the GCC and EU, analysed the Digital Services Act, identified responsible authorities and evaluated market similarities and differences. We proposed regulatory options and a roadmap for implementing a unified framework at national or GCC level.

    C. Key Achievements

    The study provided a comprehensive analysis, highlighted regulatory gaps and offered actionable recommendations. Decision‑makers received a clear roadmap for enacting a unified digital services law and strengthening consumer protection and market oversight.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What was the objective of the Unified Digital Services Regulation study?

    The study aimed to evaluate digital services markets and regulatory frameworks across Saudi Arabia, GCC countries, and the European Union to assess the feasibility of adopting a unified regulatory framework similar to the EU’s Digital Services Act.

    Why is a unified digital services regulation important for the GCC?

    Digital platforms operate across borders, creating regulatory gaps and consumer protection risks. A unified framework helps ensure consistent oversight, enhance market transparency, and strengthen user safety across GCC countries.

    Who was the client for this project?

    The client was the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST).
    learn more about CST

    Who is Kaizen Consulting?

    Kaizen Consulting is a specialized advisory firm delivering strategic, regulatory, and digital transformation solutions across government and private sectors. The firm supported this study by providing in-depth market analysis and policy recommendations tailored to the GCC context.
    Learn more about Kaizen

    What markets and regulatory models were analyzed in the study?

    The study reviewed digital services markets in Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries and conducted a comparative analysis with the European Union’s Digital Services Act to identify similarities, differences, and best practices.

    Project Summary

    A three‑month study evaluated digital service markets and regulations across Saudi Arabia, the GCC and the EU to propose a unified regulatory framework.

    Project Information

    Client:

    Communications, Space & Technology Commission

    Value:

    849,000 SAR

    Start Date:

    April 17, 2023

    End Date:

    July 16, 2023

    Duration:

    Three months

    Project URL:

    http://cst.gov.sa

    Status:

    Completed

    Rating:

    5.0 rating

    Additional Information

    The Client Phone :

    19966

    The Client Email :

    info@cst.gov.sa

    Taxonomies

    Service Area:

    Digital Transformation

    Client Sector:

    Government & Public Entities

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