Advanced Digital Regulation Training for Saudi Arabia

Advanced Digital Regulation Training for Saudi Arabia

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, sophisticated regulatory frameworks are essential for fostering innovation and economic growth. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative underscores the commitment to transforming into a knowledge-based economy where advanced digital regulation plays a pivotal role. This commitment is demonstrated through the Saudi government's strategic focus on enhancing the effectiveness and collaboration of regulatory mechanisms in the digital domain. As a subcontractor, Tambourine Innovation Ventures (TIV) contributed its expertise to an advanced digital regulation training program commissioned by the Saudi Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) and in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This program extended the foundational training efforts previously initiated to empower local regulatory frameworks and bodies.

Over a series of sessions, the program delved into the intricate dynamics of digital economies, focusing on the newest generation of collaborative regulation, referred to as 'fifth generation collaborative regulation' by the ITU. This approach emphasizes the need for holistic policy groundings and multi-stakeholder engagement involving policymakers, single-sector and cross-sector regulators, and diverse market players. Key components of the training involved:

• Deep Dives into Generational Regulatory Evolution: From command-and-control models to frameworks encouraging investment and socio-economic objectives, progressing to advanced collaborative and flexible regulatory practices addressing the digital economy's broad impacts.

• Collaboration Mechanisms: The sessions highlighted the work of the National Regulatory Committee (NRC) in Saudi Arabia, demonstrating the shift towards a 'whole of government' approach. This strategic pivot facilitates higher coordination levels and enhances cooperative efforts across various sectors, including ICT, finance, and transport, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals.

• Policy Design Principles: A comprehensive exploration of seven key regulatory principles that respond to new technological paradigms and business models, fostering an environment conducive to innovation while ensuring market competitiveness and consumer protection.

• Interactive Prototyping and Testing: Utilizing a cycle that included observation, modeling, consultation, and definition to develop and refine regulatory approaches that align with local and international best practices.

Over 40 participants attended the training, including key representatives from CST and various telecommunications providers, further enhancing the collaborative learning environment. This extensive participation underscores the high level of interest and commitment among stakeholders to advance Saudi Arabia's regulatory capabilities in line with emerging digital challenges. The success of the advanced digital regulation training underscores TIV's commitment to fostering regulatory environments that not only keep pace with technological advancements but also promote a competitive private sector. The program's continuation throughout the year will further enhance the capabilities of Saudi Arabia’s ICT regulators and other stakeholders, ensuring they remain at the forefront of digital transformation initiatives.