Saudi Arabia's accessibility laws
Understand Saudi Arabia’s digital accessibility requirements and learn what your organization must do to meet them. Whether you’re in the public or private sector, Deque can help you create digital experiences that are compliant and inclusive of everyone, including people with disabilities.
What are Saudi Arabia’s accessibility standards?
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative is a cornerstone of the nation’s efforts to ensure equal access to digital services for people with disabilities. The Disability Code’s ICT provisions mandate accessible technology systems, while government platforms lead by example with WCAG 2.0 AAA compliance.
Private sector organizations are encouraged to adopt WCAG 2.1 guidelines to align with the Kingdom’s progressive vision for an inclusive digital future.
Digital accessibility in Saudi Arabia
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Over 1,349,585 (5.1%) individuals in Saudi Arabia have a disability.
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79.19% of Saudi web traffic comes from mobile devices, highlighting the need for responsive and accessible design.
Why digital accessibility is right for your organization
The benefits of offering accessible products and services are wide-ranging and include:
Vision 2030 alignment
Prioritizing accessibility positions your organization as a leader for Saudi Arabia’s transformative goals, fostering inclusion and national progress.
Trust and loyalty
Accessible platforms demonstrate commitment to all users, strengthening your brand’s reputation in a rapidly modernizing economy.
Innovation and competitiveness
Building products and services that meet or exceed standards such as WCAG 2.1 sets you apart from organizations that have not invested in digital accessibility.
The risks of non-compliance
Failure to comply with Saudi Arabia’s Disability Code and Vision 2030 accessibility guidelines can have serious consequences for your organization, including:
Fines
Violations may result in penalties of up to SAR 200,000, with higher fines for repeat offenses under Saudi Arabia’s evolving regulatory framework.
Lawsuits
Non-compliance can lead to legal action from individuals and advocacy groups, potentially damaging your reputation and finances.
Loss of business
Inaccessible platforms exclude millions of users and may disqualify you from government contracts or tourism-sector opportunities.
Choose Deque for digital accessibility in Saudi Arabia
Regional experts
Deque has offices and employees worldwide with deep knowledge of local guidelines.
Strategic Consulting
Our Principal Strategy Consultants help build, run and improve the world’s largest digital accessibility programs.
Trusted and proven tools
Our axe accessibility testing tools are the defacto global standard with 875,000+ installs
Frequently asked questions
Vision 2030 and the Disability Code establish accessibility as a national priority, with government platforms adhering to WCAG 2.0 AAA and the private sector encouraged to adopt WCAG 2.1.
Not at this time. However, regulations continue to evolve, and proactive adoption of WCAG 2.1 is highly recommended to align with Vision 2030 and prepare your organization for future requirements.
Aligning with WCAG web content accessibility guidelines ensures that your digital content is inclusive, user-friendly, and compliant with global standards. It also helps you reach a wider audience and build a stronger, more trusted brand.