Prevent Data Loss in SAPUI5: Save Unsaved Data on Tab or Browser Close Using onExit() Method

[Myvizhipriya_Thangaraj_2810]

Introduction

One common challenge in SAPUI5 applications is detecting when a user closes a browser tab or window and performing necessary cleanup operations before the page unloads. This can be useful for:

• Saving unsaved data
• Logging session duration
• Notifying backend services when the user leaves

In this blog, we’ll explore how to trigger the onExit method in SAPUI5 to handle unsaved data before a tab or browser window is closed.

Solution: Using the beforeunload Event

JavaScript provides the beforeunload event, which fires just before the page is unloaded. By attaching this event in the onInit method, we can ensure the onExit method is executed before the tab is closed.

Implementation in SAPUI5

Add the following code in your controller:

Screenshot 1.1

How This Works

1. beforeunload Event Listener – When the user attempts to close the browser, _handleBeforeUnload is triggered.
2. Calls onExit Method – Ensures cleanup tasks (e.g., saving data, resetting state) are executed.
3. Optional Confirmation Dialog – The returnValue property displays a confirmation prompt to prevent accidental closure.

Alternative: Silent Cleanup Without Confirmation

If you don’t want to show a confirmation prompt, simply remove:

oEvent.preventDefault();

oEvent.returnValue = "Are you sure you want to leave?";

This way, onExit will still execute before the page is closed, but without alerting the user.

Use Cases

• Saving Drafts – Prevents unsaved data from being lost.
• Session Tracking – Logs session duration before exit.
• Backend Cleanup – Notifies the backend when the user leaves.

Would you like to track user activity duration as well? Let us know in the comments! 

Disclaimer

Before storing or processing any user data, it is crucial to comply with relevant data protection laws, even when users close the tab. Organizations must implement appropriate safeguards to protect user information, uphold privacy rights, and ensure secure data handling in line with legal and ethical standards.

Data protection laws vary by country, and compliance requirements differ accordingly. Some key regulations include:

• GDPR – General Data Protection Regulation (European Union)
• CCPA – California Consumer Privacy Act (State of California, US)
• CPRA – California Privacy Rights Act (State of California, US)
• PIPA – Personal Information Protection Act (Japan)

As each jurisdiction enforces its own data privacy laws, businesses and developers must stay informed about the specific regulations applicable to their operations. Non-compliance may result in legal consequences, financial penalties, and reputational risks. It is essential to prioritize transparency, obtain user consent, and implement secure data storage practices to align with global privacy standards.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog! I hope this guide on Preventing data loss in SAPUI5 by triggering onExit before closing a tab or browser helps you safeguard unsaved data and improve your application's reliability.

If you found this helpful, feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, or questions in the comments! Let's keep learning and growing together. Happy coding! 

Hello experts, please feel free to correct me if any information is inaccurate.

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