Overview
Saudi Personal Data Protection Law (KSA PDPL) Article 41 establishes that the duty to maintain the confidentiality of personal data continues even after a person’s employment, contractual engagement, or service relationship ends. Anyone who accessed personal data as part of their role remains legally obligated to protect its confidentiality after leaving the position that granted them access.
This ongoing obligation strengthens long-term data protection under the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL), ensuring that personal data is safeguarded throughout the full lifecycle of professional or contractual involvement. The duty prevents unauthorized disclosure or misuse of personal data once the individual exits their role with the controller or processor.
SDAIA's Official Text
The text below reproduces official PDPL law, regulation, or guideline issued by the Saudi Data & AI Authority, verified against the original SDAIA source. No changes or reinterpretation applied.
Article 41
Any person that engages in the Processing of Personal Data shall protect the confidentiality of the Personal Data even after the end of such person’s occupational or contractual relationship.
Plain-Language Explanation
The explanation below is provided to help you understand the SDAIA’s legal text and does not replace or override the official PDPL law, regulation, or guideline.
Confidentiality Beyond Exit
This provision confirms that any person who has processed or accessed personal data must continue protecting its confidentiality after their job, contract, or professional relationship ends. This obligation survives the termination of their role and ensures that personal data is not disclosed, shared, or misused once access rights no longer exist.
The duty is indefinite and follows the individual after their engagement concludes, reinforcing the PDPL’s emphasis on responsible handling of personal data across its entire lifecycle.
