SR 20,000 Fine for Illegal Publication of Security Camera Recordings

The Ministry of Interior has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the Law of the Use of Security Surveillance Cameras, warning of severe penalties for violations. Individuals found guilty of unlawfully transferring or publishing security camera recordings, or damaging surveillance equipment, could face fines of up to SR 20,000.

In addition to the maximum penalty, the Ministry outlined specific fines for various infractions. Violators will incur a SR500 fine for each camera or device that fails to meet technical specifications and SR1,000 for improper installation as per the Request for Proposal (RFP) guidelines. Furthermore, failing to retain security recordings could result in fines up to SR5,000.

Intended to regulate the use of security surveillance cameras across the Kingdom—excluding private residential units and complexes—the law strictly prohibits the transfer or publication of security recordings without explicit approval from the Ministry of Interior, the Presidency of State Security, a court order, or a request from a competent investigative authority.

The law also mandates that security camera recordings must remain intact and be retained in the event of a reported incident until investigations are concluded. These recordings must be provided to the Ministry of Interior or the Presidency of State Security upon request, ensuring comprehensive oversight and accountability.