Personal data · Legal glossary
Data processorIn Arabic: جهة المعالجة
Definition
The processor is the person who processes personal data for the controller, on the controller’s behalf, and on the controller’s instructions.
How it varies across the GCC
Saudi law calls this person جهة المعالجة (Personal Data Protection Law, article 1). UAE law calls this person المعالج (Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021, article 1).
The rules that apply to a specific matter depend on the state, any free zone involved and the current text of the law, so check the official source before relying on them.
Compare the GCC laws side by side in our data protection guideSources
Official texts for the points on this page. General information, not legal advice. An article number is cited only where it was verified.
- Saudi Personal Data Protection Law, art. 1https://laws.boe.gov.sa/BoeLaws/Laws/LawDetails/b7cfae89-828e-4994-b167-adaa00e37188/1
- UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021, art. 1https://uaelegislation.gov.ae/ar/legislations/1972