Cache Policy

Purpose

This Cache Policy outlines how the SKEA platform temporarily stores and manages data to improve user experience and system performance.

It ensures that caching practices are transparent, secure, and compliant with Abu Dhabi and UAE data protection and cybersecurity regulations

Scope

This policy applies to all users of the SKEA platform, including applicants, judges, partners, and administrators.

It covers both server-side caching (within SKEA infrastructure) and client-side caching (within users’ browsers or devices).

Objectives

The cache system is designed to:

• Improve platform performance and loading speed.
• Reduce repeated requests for identical data.
• Ensure continuity of user sessions during navigation.
• Protect sensitive information from unauthorized exposure or misuse.

Types of Cached Data

The SKEA platform may temporarily cache the following types of data:

• Session Data: Temporary storage of authenticated user sessions to maintain continuity during form completion or navigation.
• Static Content: Images, style sheets, and scripts cached to optimize website performance.
• Application Metadata: Recently accessed pages or reports stored for faster retrieval.
• Non-Sensitive User Preferences: Language selection, accessibility settings, and interface choices.

Cache Duration and Expiry

Cached data is stored only for as long as necessary to fulfill its operational purpose.

Session Data (Temporary data generated during a user’s active session on the platform, helps keep the user “logged in” and maintain their progress across pages): Automatically expires after 20–30 minutes of inactivity or upon user logout.

Static Content (Files that do not change frequently and are identical for all users, stored (cached) to improve speed and reduce server load.): Typically cached for up to 7 days, unless manually refreshed.

Browser Cache: Can be cleared manually by the user at any time.

Cache Storage and Security

All caching mechanisms comply with Abu Dhabi Digital Authority data security standards.

Sensitive or classified information is never cached in plain text or accessible format.

Data transmission and retrieval occur over secure, encrypted channels.

User Controls

Users have the ability to:

• Clear browser cache and cookies at any time through their web browser settings.
• Disable caching via browser privacy settings, understanding this may affect performance.
• Request clarification on caching practices through the official SKEA support channels.

Third-Party and CDN Caching

The SKEA platform may utilize Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) to enhance global accessibility and performance.

All third-party caching services are contractually required to comply with UAE data protection laws and not store personal data beyond what is technically necessary.

Limitation of Liability

While SKEA employs robust technical safeguards, it is not liable for: Caching behavior controlled by users’ browsers or third-party plugins, Data retained or mishandled by external services beyond the platform’s control, and System performance issues resulting from disabled caching.

Policy Updates

This Cache Policy may be updated periodically to reflect technological or regulatory changes.

Updates will be posted on the SKEA website with the “Last Updated” date clearly indicated.