GDPR vs PDPL: What SaaS Startups Need to Know

Data privacy is no longer a niche compliance topic. SaaS startups serving Europe or Saudi Arabia must understand both GDPR and the Saudi Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL).

Key similarities

• Both require a lawful basis for processing.
• Both grant users rights to access, correct, and delete their data.
• Both expect contracts with processors/sub-processors.

Key differences

• GDPR has heavier fines and more mature regulator guidance.
• PDPL has specific rules on cross-border transfers and local registration.
• Consent wording and cookie practices differ.

Start with a privacy checklist, then build your policies around your actual data flows.