UAE Data Protection in Practice: DIFC and ADGM Free Zone Rules

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In part two of our UAE data protection series, we move beyond the UAE Federal Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) and into the free zones, specifically the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). These financial and commercial hubs operate their own data protection regimes, built to support international business and designed to feel familiar to GDPR-ready organisations.

We break down what DIFC and ADGM actually are, why the federal PDPL generally does not apply inside these zones, and how to determine which law applies when operations span multiple jurisdictions or sectors. You will also learn what feels “GDPR-like” (lawful bases, controller-processor rules, DPIAs, RoPA, data subject rights) and what can catch teams out, including regulator expectations, breach notification thresholds and timelines, international transfer mechanisms, governance requirements, and enforcement posture.

If you are expanding into the UAE, working with DIFC or ADGM entities, or managing cross-border data flows, this episode offers practical guidance on building a jurisdiction-specific compliance strategy that holds up in day-to-day operations.


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