يشهد The Saudi economy is witnessing unprecedented growth across various sectors — from technology and energy to trade and logistics.
This growth has positioned the Kingdom as one of the most attractive investment destinations in the Middle East. With the facilitations provided by the Ministry of Investment, within the framework of Saudi Vision 2030it has become Establishing a company in Saudi Arabia for foreigners An organized and seamless process that enables individuals and foreign companies to enter the Saudi market with confidence.
In this guide, we will cover all the requirements, steps, and legal types of companies that can be established in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Requirements for Establishing a Company in Saudi Arabia for Foreigners
The official Saudi authorities impose a set of requirements to ensure transparency and streamline procedures, which include the following:
- Obtaining an official investment license from the Ministry of Investment (MISA).
- Submitting a certified commercial registration from the investor’s home country and attested by the Saudi Embassy.
- Opening a Saudi bank account in the name of the new company to deposit the authorized capital.
- Precisely defining the business activity whether it is industrial, service-oriented, commercial, or consultancy.
- Having a Saudi partner for certain sensitive activities, such as the Hajj, security, or real estate sectors.
- Compliance with the New Saudi Companies Law (2023–2025) which has facilitated full foreign ownership in most business activities.
The requirements vary depending on the type of activity and capital, so it is advisable to consult a legal advisor before applying.
Steps to Establish a Company in Saudi Arabia for Foreigners 2025
Foreign investors can now establish their companies entirely online. through official government platforms, without the need for repeated visits to government offices.
1. Apply for an investment license
- Access the platform the Ministry of Investment (MISA)..
- Fill in the company and business activity details.
- Attach the original documents after translating and attesting them.
- After review, the preliminary approval is issued within a few days.
2. Issue the Commercial Registration
- After obtaining the license, proceed to the website of the Ministry of Commerce to issue the electronic commercial registration..
- It includes the trade name, capital, business activity, and main office.
3. Notarize the Articles of Association
- Notarize the Articles of Association electronically through the platform of Notarial Authentication.
- The contract includes the powers of the directors, profit distribution, and ownership percentages among the partners.
4. Open the Bank Account and Obtain the Final License
- Open an official corporate bank account in the Kingdom.
- Complete the commercial license procedures with the authority responsible for the business activity.
- Afterward, the company can officially commence its operations in the Saudi market.
Types of Companies Foreigners Can Establish
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Ideal for small and medium-sized projects, and considered the most flexible option. - Closed or Public Joint-Stock Company (JSC)
Ideal for large projects that require substantial capital and multiple shareholders. - Branch of a Foreign Company
Allows international companies to operate directly in Saudi Arabia under their trade name. - Representative or Consulting Office
Used for market research purposes without engaging in commercial or financial activities.
Advantages of Establishing a Company for Foreigners in Saudi Arabia
- 100% Foreign Ownership in most business activities.
- Tax and Customs Exemptions in the special economic zones.
- Easy transfer of profits abroad without complex banking restrictions.
- A stable legal and investment environment that supports long-term growth.
- Support and Financing Programs from government development funds for investment projects.
- Easy recruitment of skilled labor from various countries.
Documents Required to Establish a Company
- A copy of the passport of the investor or shareholders.
- Certificate of registration of the parent company in the country of incorporation.
- A power of attorney attested by the Saudi Embassy.
- A notarized lease agreement for the company’s office in the Kingdom.
- A clear business plan outlining the company’s goals and strategy.
Basic Costs and Fees
- Investment License Fees: Ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 SAR depending on the business activity.
- Commercial Registration Fees: Starting from 200 SAR per year.
- Translation and Notarization Costs: Approximately between 1,000 and 3,000 SAR.
📝 Final costs may vary depending on the type of activity, capital, and location of establishment.
Important Legal Tips Before Establishment
- Choose a business activity that complies with foreign investment regulations..
- ensuring that the accuracy of translations and attestations. for all foreign documents.
- collaborate with a lawyer specialized in corporate and foreign investment matters..
- review the requirements of Saudi Vision 2030 to take advantage of the new facilitation
- Consult a local advisor to gain a precise understanding of tax and commercial regulations.
Conclusion
It represents Establishing a company in Saudi Arabia for foreigners Today represents a promising opportunity to invest in a dynamic and developed economic environment. With clear regulations and streamlined electronic procedures, any foreign investor can establish their company through simple and transparent steps. With the right legal and professional support, achieving success in the Saudi market becomes a realistic and attainable goal.
