"The Communications and Information Technology Commission" Invites the Public to Submit Their Views on the Draft Terms of Provision of Telecommunications and IT Services Document

The Communications and Information Technology Commission has invited the public to submit their views on the updated "Draft Terms of Provision of Telecommunications and IT Services Document." Through updating this document, the Commission aims to develop the regulatory environment governing the relationship between the telecom service provider and the user, whether at the level of individuals or the business sector — both government and commercial — with a view to improving their experience by adopting best international standards, practices and experiences, as well as what has been issued by international organizations in the field of protecting the rights of telecommunications and IT service users.

The Commission explained that among the most notable updates included in the draft document is the addition of detailed provisions on clarity and transparency to protect the user's right to obtain accurate information, along with certain provisions regulating marketing communications by the service provider, and the consequences of the service provider amending contract terms. It also obliges service providers to clearly define their obligations regarding service quality and minimum quality levels, and mechanisms for discounts or refunds to the user in the event the service provider fails to meet these standards. The draft further elaborates on provisions related to protecting the user's right to the confidentiality of their information, adds new provisions regulating prepaid services, and includes rules related to protecting the rights of users with disabilities and users from the government and commercial business sectors.

The Commission noted that it has provided an opportunity for relevant parties and interested members of the public to take part in submitting their views on the draft document, in line with the Commission's regulatory role over the telecommunications and IT sector in a manner that safeguards the public interest and the interests of users, and in keeping with the rapid developments the sector is undergoing. This may be done by reviewing the updated draft document via the Commission's website (www.cst.gov.sa) and submitting views in writing, supported by the necessary justifications and details, no later than Thursday 07/05/1441H, corresponding to 02/01/2020, and sending them through one of the following means:

● By email: TPTS@cst.gov.sa

● Hand delivery (a paper copy and an electronic copy) at the headquarters of the Communications and Information Technology Commission.

● By mail (a paper copy and an electronic copy) to the following address:

Communications and Information Technology Commission, Al-Nakheel District – intersection of Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Street with Imam Saud bin Abdulaziz Road: P.O. Box 75606 – Riyadh 11588 – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

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