What does freedom of information mean?

It refers to public, non-protected information that Monsha'at processes, regardless of its source or format, or nature. Open data falls under public information. Freedom of information means making public data accessible to individuals in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.

What rights do individuals have regarding access to or obtaining public information?

• The right to access and obtain any non-protected information held by a public entity.
• The right to know the reason if a request to access or obtain information is denied.
• The right to appeal a decision denying access to, or the provision of, the requested information.

What information can be requested, and what is excluded?

This policy applies to all requests for access to non-protected information produced by Monsha'at, regardless of its source, format, or nature, with the aim of improving work efficiency and maximizing the benefits of data.

The policy does not cover protected information, which includes, but is not limited to:

• Information whose disclosure could harm national security, state policy, interests, or rights.
• Military or security information.
• Information and documents obtained under agreements with other countries that are classified as protected.
• Investigations, inquiries, enforcement actions, inspections, or monitoring related to crimes, violations, or threats.
• Information containing recommendations, proposals, or consultations for legislation or government decisions not yet issued.
• Commercial, industrial, financial, or economic information whose disclosure could lead to unfair profit or loss.
• Scientific or technical research, or intellectual property rights, whose disclosure could infringe moral rights.
• Information related to competitions, bids, or tenders that could compromise fair competition if disclosed.
• Information considered confidential or personal under other laws, or information requiring specific legal procedures to access or obtain.