Article 36 of the Saudi Communications and Information Technology Law
المادة 36 من نظام الاتصالات وتقنية المعلومات · الفصل العاشر: أحكام ختامية
The article tasks the Authority with setting the technical specifications and standards for communications and information technology devices, in coordination with the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization, and taking what is needed to ensure devices comply with them.
Official text (Arabic)
This article has not been amended since the law was issued.
تضع الهيئة المواصفات والمقاييس الفنية لأجهزة الاتصالات وتقنية المعلومات بالتنسيق مع الهيئة السعودية للمواصفات والمقاييس والجودة، وتتّخذ الإجراءات اللازمة؛ لضمان توافق الأجهزة مع المواصفات الفنية التي تضعها.
This is the official Arabic wording, the only legally binding version. We do not translate the law itself; the explanation below is ours. Official source: Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers
Article 36 explained in plain English
This article regulates the quality and compliance of devices in the market.
What it provides:
- Setting specifications: The Authority sets the technical specifications and standards for communications and information technology devices.
- Coordination: This is done in coordination with the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization.
- Ensuring compliance: The Authority takes the necessary measures to ensure that devices comply with the technical specifications it sets.
What is meant by devices? The definition in Article 1 is broad: any wired or wireless devices, equipment sensitive to radio transmission, devices that cause interference, and any equipment, products or tools that connect to a communications network or whose use may affect the technical ability to provide services. Mobile phones, routers and network equipment fall within it.
The article does not itself state the specifications or the measures the Authority takes to ensure compliance; these are found in the Authority's decisions. It matters to importers, distributors and merchants who deal in these devices.
Before it comes Article 35 on controls for prices, roaming and calling cards, and after it Article 37, which requires service providers and distributors to provide the data requested. Anyone who works in importing or selling devices should check the approved specifications or consult a lawyer specializing in communications and information technology law.
Practical example
A merchant in Jeddah wants to import a new type of router to sell in his store. These devices fall within the definition of devices, so he needs to make sure they comply with the technical specifications the Authority sets in coordination with the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization.
Translated from our Arabic explanation with machine assistance. For guidance only; it does not replace advice from a lawyer on your situation.
How we write and review contentCommercial & Corporate Law lawyers: ask a specialist about your case
Describe your situation briefly and we'll suggest a lawyer who specialises in this law
Commercial & Corporate Law lawyers
Lawyers who handle this kind of case
Ibrahim Al Salem Law Firm
Active contributor
Dr. Ali Al-Rubaie Law Office and Ittihad Al-Asr Legal Company
Frequently asked questions about Article 36 of the Saudi Communications and Information Technology Law
Who sets telecom device specifications in Saudi Arabia?
The Communications and Information Technology Authority sets them, in coordination with the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization.
Do the specifications cover routers and mobile phones?
The definition of devices in Article 1 covers any wired or wireless devices and equipment that connect to a communications network or whose use may affect the provision of services.
More articles on Telecom Equipment and Specifications
The texts are reproduced from the official website of the Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers for reference; where they differ, the officially published Arabic text prevails. This content is not legal advice.