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A Cloud Computing Policy sets the rules and standards for how organizations in Saudi Arabia use cloud services safely and legally. It explains who can access cloud resources, what security measures must be in place, and how to handle sensitive data in line with the Kingdom's Cloud Computing Regulatory Framework (CCRF) and National Cybersecurity Authority guidelines.

This policy helps businesses protect their information while taking advantage of cloud benefits, covering everything from data classification and storage locations to disaster recovery plans. It's especially important for organizations handling personal data or government information, as it ensures compliance with local data sovereignty requirements and the Essential Cybersecurity Controls (ECC-1:2019).

Your organization needs a Cloud Computing Policy when moving sensitive data or critical operations to cloud platforms. This becomes urgent during digital transformation projects, when expanding IT infrastructure, or after signing new cloud service agreements. Saudi organizations must implement this policy before storing any regulated data in the cloud, particularly for healthcare, financial, or government-related information.

The policy proves essential when preparing for cybersecurity audits, responding to regulatory inspections, or demonstrating compliance with the National Cybersecurity Authority's requirements. It's particularly valuable when coordinating cloud usage across multiple departments or when establishing partnerships with international cloud providers while maintaining data sovereignty.

• Basic Cloud Security Policy: Sets fundamental rules for cloud access, data classification, and security controls aligned with Saudi NCA guidelines.
• Enterprise-Wide Cloud Governance: Comprehensive policy covering multi-cloud environments, vendor management, and cross-departmental coordination.
• Industry-Specific Cloud Policies: Tailored versions for healthcare (meeting HIPAA-equivalent standards), financial services (SAMA compliance), or government entities.
• Data Sovereignty Focus: Emphasizes local data storage, cross-border transfer restrictions, and compliance with Saudi data protection requirements.
• Hybrid Cloud Management: Specifically addresses mixed on-premise and cloud infrastructure scenarios common in Saudi organizations.

• IT Directors and CIOs: Lead the development and implementation of Cloud Computing Policies, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and Saudi regulations.
• Information Security Teams: Define security controls, monitor compliance, and update policies based on emerging cyber threats.
• Legal Departments: Review policy alignment with Saudi data protection laws and CCRF requirements.
• Department Managers: Ensure their teams follow cloud usage guidelines and data handling procedures.
• Cloud Service Users: All employees accessing cloud resources must understand and comply with the policy's requirements.
• External Auditors: Verify policy compliance during cybersecurity assessments and regulatory reviews.

• Current Infrastructure Review: Map existing cloud services, data types, and storage locations across your organization.
• Regulatory Check: Review NCA guidelines, CCRF requirements, and sector-specific regulations affecting your cloud operations.
• Risk Assessment: Document potential security threats, data privacy concerns, and compliance gaps.
• Stakeholder Input: Gather requirements from IT, legal, security, and business units about cloud service needs.
• Technical Details: List approved cloud providers, required security controls, and access management procedures.
• Policy Generation: Use our platform to create a customized, legally-compliant policy that addresses your specific needs.
• Internal Review: Circulate draft among key stakeholders for operational feasibility feedback.

• Scope Statement: Clear definition of covered cloud services, users, and departments under Saudi jurisdiction.
• Data Classification: Categories of data and their handling requirements per NCA guidelines.
• Security Controls: Mandatory security measures aligned with Essential Cybersecurity Controls.
• Access Management: User authorization levels and authentication requirements.
• Data Sovereignty: Rules for data storage location and cross-border transfers.
• Incident Response: Procedures for security breaches and regulatory reporting.
• Compliance Framework: References to CCRF and relevant Saudi regulations.
• Review Process: Policy update procedures and compliance monitoring.

A Cloud Computing Policy differs significantly from a Cloud Services Agreement. While both deal with cloud services, they serve distinct purposes in Saudi organizations and require different approaches under the CCRF framework.

• Scope and Purpose: Cloud Computing Policy provides internal guidelines and security requirements for all cloud usage across an organization, while a Cloud Services Agreement is a contractual document between your organization and a specific cloud provider.
• Legal Nature: The policy is an internal governance document enforced through workplace rules, while the agreement creates binding legal obligations between two parties.
• Content Focus: The policy emphasizes security controls, data classification, and compliance with Saudi cybersecurity regulations, whereas the agreement details service levels, pricing, liability terms, and specific vendor obligations.
• Implementation: Policies guide day-to-day operations and employee behavior, while agreements establish the legal framework for service delivery and dispute resolution.