Saudi Arabia: Adopted Executive Regulations of the Telecommunications Law including licensing requirement

On 8 December 2022, the executive regulations of the Telecommunications Law were adopted by Ministerial decision. In Article 6 to 16, the Communications, Space and Technology Commission's (CITC) provisions and standards pertaining to licences, registrations, and permits are explained. They have an upper limit decided by the CITC in each relevant market. Reasons for rejected renewal requests are listed, which inter alia include behaviours that endanger public security, public interests, and public health. The regulations also outline the required information to be submitted by any applicant such as the number of users of the telecom service, the company's revenue, and a clear business plan that ensures the continous availability of its service. If a licence, permit or registration expires or is rejected for renewal, it becomes the CITC's responsibility to ensure the continuity of essential services to users. Finally, the regulations detail the required steps to be taken if any licences, permits or registration are to be transferred.