Riyadh: The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) has launched the Software Escrow Guideline, aiming to introduce the software escrow concept, detail its enabling procedures and best practices, and highlight its role in protecting digital applications, as well as raising awareness, supporting business continuity in the software sector, building trust between software developers and beneficiaries, advancing the maturity of the local software market, and unlocking new market opportunities, according to the CST.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the guideline targets the public and private sectors, individuals, software developers, and software escrow agents. It includes an introduction to the model that can be adopted and the role of escrow agents in securely managing computer software, source code, and associated technical documents through a software escrow agreement. It also highlights the benefits for both developers and customers from these safeguarding and delivery services, while outlining clear procedures for accessing the source code that protect rights and ensure business continuity.

This initiative stems from CST’s commitment to regulating the technology sector, developing the software market and industry in the Kingdom, supporting tech companies, and introducing software escrow as a key enabler for business continuity and software asset safety by including a third party that enhances trust in the software.