Saudi Arabia Enacts New Copyright Law

Saudi Arabia has introduced a comprehensive new Copyright Law, replacing the previous legislation from 2003. The law, issued under Royal Decree No. M/169 and published in the Official Gazette on February 13, 2026, will come into effect on August 12, 2026. This legislation aims to modernize the framework for copyright and neighboring rights, aligning with international standards and addressing the evolving needs of the digital era.

Key Provisions of the New Copyright Law

The new law broadens the scope of protected works to include:

• Written and oral works, such as lectures and speeches
• Dramatic and musical compositions
• Fine and applied arts
• Photographic and audiovisual works
• Computer programs and databases

Notably, the law explicitly excludes protection for ideas, procedures, mathematical concepts, and official documents, including laws and regulations. This delineation clarifies the boundaries of copyright protection, ensuring that only original expressions are safeguarded.

Implications for Businesses and Creators

The updated legislation introduces several significant changes:

• Territorial Application: The law applies to works authored by Saudi citizens or residents, works first published in Saudi Arabia, and works first published abroad and then published in Saudi Arabia within 30 days of the first publication.
• Rights Granted: Authors are granted exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, perform, and adapt their works, providing robust protection against unauthorized use.
• Exceptions and Limitations: The law includes specific exceptions, such as allowances for AI development, reflecting a balance between protecting creators and fostering innovation.
• Enforcement and Liability: Enhanced enforcement mechanisms and liability provisions are established to deter infringement and ensure compliance.

Businesses operating in sectors like technology, media, entertainment, publishing, and software development should review their practices to ensure alignment with the new law. This includes assessing licensing agreements, content creation processes, and compliance protocols.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia's new Copyright Law represents a significant step toward modernizing intellectual property rights in the Kingdom. By expanding the scope of protection and clarifying exceptions, the law aims to foster a more robust creative economy while balancing the interests of creators and the public. Stakeholders are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new provisions ahead of its implementation in August 2026.