Saudi ministry sets unified regulations for commercial data centers

The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing has approved municipal regulations for commercial data centers in Saudi Arabia, aiming to strengthen digital infrastructure readiness and provide a clearer regulatory environment for the growth of this vital sector. The move is intended to streamline the process for investors to establish, develop, and operate data centers according to unified and transparent requirements.

The ministry explained that data centers are a cornerstone of the digital economy, relied upon by both government and private sectors for managing, processing, and storing data. This supports the continuity of digital services, business efficiency, and enhances the Kingdom’s capacity for ongoing digital growth.

Details of the new requirements

The regulations cover standalone commercial data center sites both inside and outside urban areas, requiring easy access for operations and maintenance teams, and the availability of essential services such as electricity, telecommunications, and transport. The requirements also mandate compliance with approved building codes, parking, setbacks, height restrictions, landscaping, and any additional regulatory requirements issued by relevant authorities.

According to the ministry, these regulations will clarify requirements for investors and reduce inconsistencies in the procedures for establishing and operating data centers. The regulatory framework defines spatial, technical, and operational standards, supporting the unification of procedures across different regions of the Kingdom.

Licensing and operational requirements

The new regulations require obtaining Civil Defense approval before issuing a license, presenting a valid commercial registration that includes the relevant activity, and securing approval from the supervising authority. Procedures for issuing, renewing, amending, suspending, and canceling licenses are subject to the municipal licensing system and its executive regulations.

The requirements also oblige data centers to comply with the Saudi Building Code, have design and supervision work certified by approved engineering offices, and adhere to international and local standards related to construction, design, fire protection, cooling systems, electrical power, and backup systems, ensuring quality, reliability, and operational continuity.

Additional standards and investor invitation

The regulations also include requirements for facades and general appearance, lighting, flooring, ceilings, full accessibility for persons with disabilities, regular maintenance, waste management, security monitoring systems, and displaying the unified electronic code for the facility.

The ministry stressed that adopting these regulations is an important step to support the growth of the data center sector by providing a more reliable and sustainable environment, encouraging investment and innovation in information technology, and enhancing the Kingdom’s competitiveness in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The regulations took effect upon publication, and the ministry invited investors and stakeholders to review the details on its website.