Riyadh:

Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council has called for new regulations requiring age verification and restrictions on social media use for children under the age of 16, as part of efforts to strengthen online safety and protect young users from digital risks.

The proposal comes amid the Kingdom’s broader initiatives to create a safer digital environment for children and combat online exploitation. Lawmakers urged the Communications, Space and Technology Commission to develop clear guidelines that ensure minors are protected while using social media platforms.

Saudi Arabia has already taken significant steps in this area. In 2025, the Kingdom launched the Child Protection in Cyberspace Index, a global initiative designed to measure and improve online safety standards for children around the world.

The initiative was introduced under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and aims to raise international awareness about the growing dangers children face online, including cyberbullying, digital exploitation, harmful content, and privacy threats.

Experts say the index will serve as an important global tool for evaluating progress in creating safer digital spaces for children and encouraging international cooperation on cybersecurity issues affecting young people.

Saudi Arabia’s efforts have also gained international recognition. In July 2025, the United Nations Human Rights Council unanimously adopted a resolution related to child protection in cyberspace, reflecting growing global support for measures that safeguard children online.

Officials and experts emphasize that while the internet offers valuable educational and communication opportunities, stronger safeguards are essential to ensure children can navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.