Dubai’s DIFC becomes region’s first accredited member of Global Privacy Assembly

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the emirate’s financial hub, has confirmed that the centre is now a fully accredited member of the Global Privacy Assembly (GPA).

The appointment follows the enactment of the Data Protection Law, DIFC Law No 5. of 2020, which underscores the centre’s commitment to applying international best practice.

Read: Revealed: Key facts about the new data protection law issued by Dubai’s DIFC

It also reinforces key privacy principles including accountability, safeguards for international transfers, and supports data subjects’ rights especially with respect to emerging technology issues, Dubai Media Office reported.

The Global Privacy Assembly is an international group and an independent authority to uphold information rights in the best of public’s interest, promoting openness by public bodies and data privacy for individuals.

It is led by the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office and comprises of more than 130 leading global information and privacy authorities and commissioners.

DIFC will work with GPA Members to implement global best practice within data protection and privacy to support sustainable business growth and fulfill privacy mandates.

Jacques Visser, commissioner of data protection at DIFC Authority, commented: “We are pleased to announce that DIFC is the region’s first fully accredited Member of the Global Privacy Assembly. We continue to work relentlessly to deliver comprehensive privacy legislation that is at the forefront of global standards and supports our commitment to drive the future of finance. The accreditation will enable DIFC to build on the Centre’s reputation as a leading global financial centre focused on innovation and collaboration, whilst also promoting ethical data sharing.”

DIFC introduced a new data protection law, that aims to enhance its current regime around data, security and privacy best practices.

Effective July 1, 2020 onwards, businesses to which the law applies had a three-month grace period – until October 1 – to adhere to the new legislation.