ADGM Data Protection & Cybersecurity Compliance
Abu Dhabi Global Market — Data Protection Regulations 2021
The Abu Dhabi Global Market's Data Protection Regulations 2021 are the most GDPR-aligned privacy framework in the UAE region. All ADGM-registered entities must comply or face enforcement by the ADGM Registration Authority. eShield provides end-to-end ADGM compliance advisory and implementation services.
Get an ADGM Compliance AssessmentADGM Data Protection Regulations: Key Requirements
Lawful Basis for Processing
All processing of personal data must have a valid legal basis — consent, contract, legal obligation, vital interests, public task, or legitimate interests. Consent must be freely given, specific, and withdrawable.
Data Protection Officer (DPO)
Mandatory DPO for controllers carrying out large-scale systematic monitoring or processing of special category data. DPO must be registered with the ADGM Commissioner of Data Protection.
Data Protection Impact Assessment
DPIA required for high-risk processing activities — large-scale profiling, systematic monitoring of public spaces, and processing of special categories of data.
72-Hour Breach Notification
Personal data breaches must be reported to the ADGM Commissioner of Data Protection within 72 hours of becoming aware. Data subjects must be notified if breach is high-risk.
Data Subject Rights
Data subjects have rights to access, rectification, erasure, portability, restriction, and objection. Organisations must fulfil requests within defined timeframes and without undue delay.
International Data Transfers
Transfers of personal data outside ADGM require adequate protection — via adequacy decisions, Standard Contractual Clauses, or BCRs approved by the ADGM Commissioner.
eShield ADGM Compliance Services
🔎 ADGM Readiness Assessment
Comprehensive gap assessment against all ADGM Data Protection Regulations 2021 obligations — processing inventory, consent architecture, data flows, DPO need, breach readiness.
📊 Data Mapping
Document all personal data categories, processing purposes, data flows (internal and to third parties), retention periods, and legal basis across your ADGM entity.
👥 DPO-as-a-Service
Outsourced DPO services for ADGM-registered entities — ADGM Commissioner registration, advice on compliance obligations, and liaison with the regulator.
📑 Privacy Notices & Policies
Draft ADGM-compliant privacy notices, data processing agreements, and internal policies. Review and update existing documentation to meet current regulatory requirements.
🚨 Breach Notification Readiness
Implement breach detection, classification, and 72-hour notification procedures — including ADGM Commissioner notification templates and data subject communication playbooks.
🛠 Technical Security Controls
Implement ADGM-required technical safeguards — access control, encryption, pseudonymisation, and security testing aligned to the Regulations' security obligations.
Is Your ADGM Entity Compliant?
The ADGM Commissioner of Data Protection is actively enforcing the 2021 Regulations. Get a free compliance assessment to identify your gaps before enforcement action.
Get a Free ADGM Assessment