Whether you're launching a startup or expanding internationally, now is the perfect time to set up business in Saudi and unlock your company’s full potential in the Middle East .
Benefits of Setting Up Business in Saudi Arabia
To set up business in Saudi Arabia’s vibrant business environment strongly encourages foreign investment and offers numerous strategic advantages:
Simplified Ease of Doing Business.
100% Foreign Ownership Allowed.
Attractive Regulatory and Financial Incentives.
Fast and Streamlined Company Setup Processes.
With Vision 2030 driving economic transformation and opening up new sectors, now is the perfect time to set up business in Saudi and grow your enterprise within the Kingdom.
That said, navigating the complex regulations and setup procedures can be challenging and time-consuming. That’s where we step in.
As your trusted business incorporation experts, we handle every aspect of your company formation, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process to set up business in Saudi.
Step-by-Step Process to set up business in saudi
Our expert consultants from us will guide you through every phase of setting up your business in Saudi Arabia, ensuring full compliance with the latest regulations.
1. Pre-Setup Stage
Book a free consultation with us to discuss your options.
Choose the legal structure that best fits your business model.
Define your business activities based on the products or services you intend to offer.
Select a unique trade name for your company in Saudi Arabia.
2. Business Incorporation Stage
Apply for an investment license through the Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia (MISA).
Obtain an investment license from the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA).
Notarize the Articles of Association.
Secure the Commercial Registration (CR).
Register a national address for your company.
Complete registrations for tax, insurance, and employee hiring with the relevant government entities.
Open a corporate bank account.
3. Required Documents for Business Setup in KSA
Ensure you have the following documents ready for a smooth incorporation:
Investment License Application Form.
Notarized Board Resolution (with partner names and share distribution).
Audited Financial Statements (latest full year).
Articles of Association.
Passport Copies of Shareholders.
ID and Address Proof of Directors and Shareholders.
Attested Power of Attorney.
At every step of your business setup in KSA, Motaded manages the process with accuracy and transparency, keeping you informed throughout. Set up business in Saudi with confidence and expert support.
Why set up business in Saudi?
A key advantage to set up business in Saudi is its strategic location, serving as a gateway connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Foreign investment in Saudi Arabia benefits from various tax incentives, subsidies, and exemptions in specific sectors. Corporate tax rates are also adjusted based on the net profits earned by foreign investors.
Saudi Arabia aims to become a leading global technology hub, with over $1 billion invested in the tech sector. This initiative is expected to generate more than 25,000 technical jobs, catering to the kingdom’s predominantly young population. Additionally, the country’s GDP (gross domestic product) is a key indicator of its economic performance and is projected to grow by SAR 500 billion over the next five years.
With a large population under 30 years old, Saudi Arabia offers lucrative opportunities across education, retail, technology, and entertainment sectors. The country also guarantees access to a skilled labor force.
Economic reforms moving away from reliance on oil and gas have diversified Saudi Arabia’s economy, opening new business prospects in sectors like tourism, manufacturing, and technology, driving economic growth.
One of the most attractive incentives for foreign investors is the 100% ownership scheme. Under this program, the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA) grants licenses to foreign businesses after required approvals from both MISA and the Ministry of Commerce.
The government actively promotes entrepreneurship through initiatives like Monshaat (The Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority), which provides financing, training, and regulatory support for startups. Another effort is the development of a venture capital ecosystem, boosting investments, particularly in tech startups, backed by both public and private funding.
To set up company in Saudi, businesses must secure the necessary licenses and approvals from relevant authorities for sectors including trading, food and agriculture, professional services, real estate, mining, construction, and engineering.
set up business in Saudi
To set up business in saudi follows a clear and structured process that both local and foreign entrepreneurs must adhere to. The key steps include with our company :
Reserving a Trade Name—The chosen name must comply with Saudi Arabia's and English's naming regulations.
Preparing Incorporation Documents — All necessary documents should be drafted and notarized in line with the selected legal structure.
Opening a Corporate Bank Account — This is required for depositing the share capital as part of the incorporation.
Submitting Incorporation Documents — File all paperwork with the our company Register.
Registering for Taxes — Obtain the necessary tax and VAT registration numbers.
Applying for Sector-Specific Licenses—Depending on your business activities, additional permits and approvals may be needed.
Foreign investors can also set up business in Saudi Arabia’s free zones, which offer attractive incentives and benefits. If your plans include relocation, our immigration experts are available to assist with visa and residency procedures.
When all legal requirements are met, and to set up business in saudi process in Saudi Arabia is smooth and efficient. With the support of our local agents from Motaded, who can manage most of the registration steps on your behalf, you can launch your company quickly and with minimal hassle.
Read About: Set Up JSC in Saudi Arabia and Dominate Your Sector
Key Prerequisites to set up business in Saudi
The requirements to set up business in Saudi vary based on your nationality and the type of business structure you choose. Here’s a general overview:
1. Nationality
Some sectors allow foreign investors of any nationality to own 100% of the business.
In certain industries, foreign investors—regardless of nationality—must partner with a Saudi national or a Saudi-owned company to comply with local regulations.
The level of ownership permitted can also differ based on bilateral agreements or specific government policies related to certain countries.
If you belong to a nationality with special agreements or exemptions, it’s important to consult with legal experts or the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA) to understand the specific ownership rules applicable to you.
2. Business Structure
Select the legal entity that best fits your venture, such as a limited liability company (LLC) or sole proprietorship.
3. Investment License
Obtain your investment license through the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), now part of the Ministry of Investment (MISA).
4. Minimum Capital Requirements
Capital requirements differ depending on your business activity and the legal structure you choose.
Ready to get started? Contact motaded today for a free consultation and set up business in Saudi.
FAQs
What Are the Ongoing Compliance Requirements?
Companies must comply with local tax regulations, manage visas and residency permits for foreign employees, and ensure that business licenses are renewed on time.
How Long Does the Business Registration Process Take?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the business structure and how complete the application is. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Is an Initial Deposit Required to Open a Bank Account?
Usually, there is no requirement for an initial deposit when opening a corporate bank account.