Privacy and Protection of Personal Data

Overview

  • There is no standalone law that governs data privacy and personal data protection in Kuwait. Kuwait Law No. 20/2014 On Electronic Transactions is the primary legislation covering the concept of data privacy and protection. Kuwait Law No. 63/2015 On Combating Cyber Crimes, Kuwait Administrative Decision No. 26/2024 Concerning the Issuance of the Data Privacy Protection Regulation and other provisions of various laws such as Kuwait Law No. 0/1962 Constitution of the State of Kuwait, Kuwait Law No. 39/1980 On Evidence in Civil and Commercial Matters and circulars and decisions issued by the government regarding data privacy and protection, form the regulatory framework for data privacy and protection.

  • Kuwait Law No. 12/2020 Concerning the Right to Information provides individuals the right to request their personal data held by public entities.

  • Data protection is regulated by authorities such as the Communication and Information Technology Authority (CITRA), the Central Agency for Information Technology (CAIT), and the Electronic Cyber Crime Combatting Department (ECCCD) under the Ministry of Interior.

  • The consent of an individual is required for data collection, processing, and transfer.