SMS Regulations You Must Know

To send SMS messages to consumers in Saudi Arabia, you MUST follow the guidelines set forth by the CITC.

However, understanding the SMS compliance landscape in Saudi Arabia can be challenging.

On this page, you’ll find the SMS regulations you need to send SMS in Saudi Arabia. We’ll discuss permitted message types, message lengths, time restrictions, the DND list, and more.

What are the SMS regulations in Saudi Arabia you should know?

The Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) protects consumers from unwanted spam and malicious texts. Here are seven aspects of SMS regulations in Saudi Arabia you should know:

• 1 - Types of messages allowed
• 2 - Message length
• 3 - Time restrictions
• 4 - DND list
• 5 - Sender ID registration
• 6 - Content Registration
• 7 - Opt-out message

Let’s dive into each in more detail.

Types of messages allowed

The CITC established guidelines on the types of messages allowed to consumers in Saudi Arabia. They include:

1. 1 - You must ensure that your messages are not spammy or annoying.
2. 2 - Avoid sending messages that promote or advertise alcohol, firearms, tobacco products, or any other content that violates the CITC regulations.

Message length

Saudi Arabia’s SMS message maximum is 160 characters. A message that exceeds this limit should be split into multiple messages.

Time restrictions

Promotional messages should only be sent between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm Saudi Arabia time. Messages sent outside of these hours may be blocked.

DND list

The CITC maintains a Do Not Disturb (DND) list of mobile numbers. You must ensure that you do not send messages to numbers on this list. You must avoid sending messages to DND numbers to comply with this rule.

Sender ID registration

Register your Alphanumeric Sender IDs with the CITC to ensure Saudi Arabian networks do not block your messages. This rule ensures that you can send messages without being blocked by Saudi Arabian networks.

Content Registration

You must register your message content with the CITC to meet Saudi Arabian regulations. This ensures you do not send messages with inappropriate content, such as hate speech or discriminatory language. To comply with this rule, register your message content with the CITC.

Opt-out message

You must include an opt-out message in all promotional messages. This ensures that consumers can choose to opt out of promotional messages. To comply with this rule, include an opt-out message in all your promotional messages.

What are the major SMS regulatory laws in Saudi Arabia?

Here are the Saudi Arabian laws that regulate SMS messaging:

• 1 - Data protection and cybersecurity laws
• 2 - Regulations for curbing spam messages and calls
• 3 - FTC regulations
• 4 - Rules and guidelines for the registration of Saudi country-code top-level domains

Let’s dive into each regulatory law in more detail.

Data protection and cybersecurity laws

Part 5 of the National Data Regulations deals with personal data protection and applies to all entities in Saudi Arabia that process personal data. You must protect your customers’ data by maintaining cybersecurity measures to prevent data breaches.

Regulations for curbing spam messages and calls

According to this regulation, operators must follow all necessary procedures to prevent fraudulent messages from passing through their system. They must also establish security checks. These will prevent spam messages and protect consumers from fraudulent activities.

FTC regulations

The FTC regulations for SMS marketing include the CAN-SPAM Act, which regulates commercial text message content and sending. Commercial text messages must include an opt-out mechanism and the sender’s contact information.

Rules and guidelines for Saudi country-code top-level domain registration

The Saudi Network Information Centre (SaudiNIC), part of the CITC, issues regulations, guidelines, and rules for Saudi country-code top-level domain registration. This helps you comply with the CITC guidelines when registering Saudi country-code top-level domains.

Rules and Technical Standards for ICT Infrastructure Deployment in New Developments

The technical standards for Outside Plant (OSP) Infrastructure provide guidelines for installing fibre optic cables, copper cables, and other communication cables in future developments.

What are the penalties for not complying with regulations?

These penalties can be costly for your business and damage your reputation. They include:

• 1 - Fines
• 2 - Suspension
• 3 - Termination of service
• 4 - Blacklisting
• 5 - Legal action
• 6 - Public warning
• 7 - Corrective action

In 2018, the Saudi Arabian Consumer Protection Association fined several mobile phone companies, including Saudi Telecom, Mobily, and Zain, for violating consumer protection laws. The companies were fined SAR 10 million (USD 2.7 million) for charges related to misleading advertising, hidden fees, and poor customer service.

What are the rules for sending marketing and transactional SMS messages in Saudi Arabia?

Here’s a quick summary of the SMS regulations in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia SMS regulations FAQ

What are the best practices for sending messages and avoiding fines with SMS compliance in Saudi Arabia?

• 1 - Send marketing messages between 8 AM – 9 PM local time.
• 2 - DND (Do Not Disturb) exists, and messages sent to mobile numbers registered in the DND list will be filtered.
• 3 - Pre-register your Alphanumeric Sender IDs to avoid the possibility of messages being blocked.
• Use a double opt-in process to confirm that the recipient wants to receive promotional messages from your business.
• 4 - Use a standardised cabling system, such as Category 6 (Cat6) or higher, to ensure reliable data transmission and network performance.
• 5 - Use a reputable SMS provider with experience in using approved routes to ensure successful delivery.

How can I navigate the SMS compliance landscape in Saudi Arabia?

You can navigate the SMS compliance landscape in Saudi Arabia by understanding the regulations established by the regulatory bodies, complying with them, and maintaining a positive reputation with their customers.

What are the regulations on sending SMS messages to landline numbers in Saudi Arabia?

Sending SMS messages to landline numbers in Saudi Arabia is restricted. 

What are the rules and guidelines for registering Saudi country-code top-level domains in Saudi Arabia?

Here are the rules and guidelines for the registration of Saudi country-code top-level domains in Saudi Arabia:

• 1 - The registrant must have a registered trademark in Saudi Arabia matching the domain name to register or provide company incorporation documents of a company in Saudi Arabia or for personal registrations a copy of valid ID.
• 2 - A letter on the organisation’s official letterhead addressed to SaudiNIC requesting domain name registration is also required.
• 3 - Local administrative contact is required.
• 4 - 2LD registrations rolled out in 2011.
• 5 - SaudiNIC manages the Saudi Domain Name rules, requirements, and regulations.
• 6 - The Saudi Domain Name Registration Regulation defines policies, terms, and conditions for domain name registration under the Saudi ccTLDs.
• 7 - Digital Government Authority provides registration services for Government entities.
• 8 - Accredited domain registrars for Saudi domain names have begun providing services to registrants, Individuals and Non-Government entities.
• 9 - Application form, trademark registration, and other requirements are needed for domain name registration in Saudi Arabia.

There are many filters in place in Saudi Arabia to block spam messages and in some cases, these prevent legitimate A2P (application-to-person) messages from reaching users. Tawasol is experienced in making use of approved routes to ensure successful delivery, which means we can help you get your messages to recipients. Simply get in touch with one of our sales advisors for help in setting up your program.

Below is a list of restrictions that currently apply. You can also read more at the Communications and Information Technology Commission that regulates Saudi Arabian SMS messaging.

We recommend working with a sales advisor to ensure compliance with all SMS regulations. Get in touch now and set up your messaging program with the help of our experts.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is intended to provide a basic understanding of SMS regulations in Saudi Arabia and is not exhaustive. While we have taken reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information, we make no warranties or representations of any kind, expressed or implied. Users are solely responsible for conducting further research on the applicable laws, regulations, and codes of conduct governing SMS communication in Saudi Arabia and ensuring compliance accordingly.