Comprehensive Report on Saudi Post (SPL) and the Business Environment in the Kingdom

Introduction to Saudi Post (SPL)

Saudi Post "SPL" represents a vital entity in the logistical and postal infrastructure of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. On April 29, 2021, "Saudi Post" underwent a significant strategic transformation by launching its new identity under the name "SPL". This change is not limited to the visual identity but aligns with a comprehensive institutional transformation strategy consistent with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to enhance the Kingdom's position as a major connecting hub for global continents.

Despite this transformation towards a commercial business model, Saudi Post "SPL" remains a government sector. However, its strategy aims to become the leading provider of postal and logistical services, and the first strategic choice for both the government and private sectors. This orientation towards competitiveness and international standards reflects a commitment to continuous service development and improved customer experience. "SPL" has reinforced this commitment by acquiring Naqel Express, underscoring its ambition to become a major player in the shipping and logistics market at the regional level.

"SPL" provides official postal services for government entities, which include letters and parcels addressed to other government entities, companies, institutions, or individuals. This service requires specific conditions for accepting postal items, such as bearing the entity's name and logo, proper sealing, clear and complete recipient address (with the necessity of writing it in English for non-Arabic destinations), appropriate packaging, and adherence to weight limits (e.g., 30 kg for parcels and 2 kg for letters). The delivery time within the Kingdom for this service ranges from two to six working days.

The radical transformation of Saudi Post into "SPL" is not merely a brand change; it is a direct embodiment of Saudi Vision 2030's goals. This direction reflects deliberate government efforts to modernize essential infrastructure, particularly in the postal and logistics sector, to support broader economic diversification and enhance the Kingdom's global connectivity. The shift towards "commercial foundations" indicates a clear intention to improve efficiency and service quality, and potentially attract private sector investments in the future, moving beyond a purely public service model.

Furthermore, the services provided by "SPL", especially the National Address, represent key enablers for digital government platforms and other businesses. This role extends beyond merely providing delivery services, as "SPL" becomes a crucial component of the national digital identity and administration infrastructure, significantly facilitating e-government services and e-commerce.

Saudi Post (SPL) Services

Saudi Post "SPL" offers a wide and diverse range of services that meet the needs of individuals and businesses alike, easily accessible through its website, smart application, and customer service channels (19992).

Overview of Core Services

Key service categories include: sending services (e.g., Express, Economy, Sea Freight), receiving services (e.g., Home Delivery, Branch Pickup, Digital PO Box), National Address service, retail services (e.g., Packaging, Money Transfers), financing services (through partners), and stamps.

Detailed Services for Individuals

• Sending Services: Include options such as urgent mail, Express, Express Plus, Economy, Sea Freight, letters, SME platform, and parcel delivery service for guests.

• Receiving Services: Include home delivery, branch pickup, receipt of Ministry of Interior documents (Absher), authentication of Ministry of Foreign Affairs documents, Digital PO Box, and regular PO Boxes.

• National Address: Individuals can register and manage their National Address for free.

• "Aalami" Service: Allows customers to ship parcels to any "SPL" branch, parcel stations, or the National Address registered in the customer's account for home delivery.

• Retail Services: Include packaging service, sale of packaging kits, sacrificial animal services, money transfers, and Al-Haramain train passenger services.

Detailed Services for Businesses

• Official Mail: A service dedicated to government entities for sending and receiving official correspondence and parcels.

• Parcel Services: Individuals and businesses can send and track parcels (such as gifts, equipment, and electronic devices) to all regions of the Kingdom and countries worldwide.

• Digital PO Box: A secure and fixed postal address consisting of a code and a postal number, granted to the customer to enable them to receive their incoming postal items without the need for a physical box or key, and requires an annual subscription.

• Regular PO Boxes: Available at main and sub-post offices and postal agency offices for individuals, government departments, institutions, and companies to receive local and international letters and shipments.

• Certified Business Address Service: Provides an easy, clear, and standardized address for commercial entities, supporting e-government transactions and e-commerce. The annual subscription value is added as credit to the customer's account on "SPL Online" upon renewal.

• "Ersal" Company Services: A subsidiary of Saudi Post and Alinma Bank, offering financial and administrative services through its network of branches located within Saudi Post offices and independent branches.

National Address Service

The National Address is a unified, comprehensive, and accredited system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, implemented according to the highest international standard and technical specifications approved by the Universal Postal Union. Registration has become mandatory for all individuals and establishments within the Kingdom. This address provides a modern and reliable service, and clarifies the address for commercial entities, fulfilling the aspirations of the commercial sector. Registration for individuals is free, while business sector registration requires annual fees.

The wide variety in "SPL"'s service portfolio, which includes financial services (through partners), e-commerce support (SME platform, parcel delivery), and digital solutions (Digital PO Box, National Address), indicates a strategic shift beyond traditional postal services. This expansion suggests that "SPL" is evolving into a comprehensive logistics and digital enablement platform, not just a mail carrier. This diversification is crucial for maintaining its relevance in a rapidly digitizing economy and aligns with Vision 2030's goal of establishing a robust logistics hub.

Furthermore, the focus on the National Address service for individuals and businesses, its free registration for individuals, and its mandatory nature, underscore its critical role as a fundamental component of the Kingdom's digital infrastructure and the identity of individuals and establishments. This means the National Address is not merely a means for mail delivery, but a unified and verifiable location identifier for all official and commercial interactions, making it a cornerstone for e-government services, financial transactions, and company registration. Its free nature for individuals encourages widespread adoption, building a strong national address database.

Account Registration and Management in Saudi Post (SPL)

The process of registering and managing an account with Saudi Post "SPL" is streamlined, with a focus on the National Address as a gateway to many services.

SPL Registration Steps (especially National Address for Individuals)

To register for the National Address for individuals, the following steps are followed:

1. Access the National Address registration page.

2. Select "Individual Registration".

3. Select "New Registration".

4. Agree to the terms and conditions.

5. Fill in the required fields.

6. Obtain your National Address.

The registration process can be completed via the website, by calling the customer service center at 19992, or through the "SPL" application. The service also allows for the registration of all family members under one National Address.

SPL Account Activation Steps (especially National Address for Businesses)

To activate a business sector account or register their National Address, the following steps are followed:

1. Access the National Address registration page.

2. Select "Business Sector Registration".

3. Select "New Registration".

4. Agree to the terms and conditions.

5. Fill in the required fields.

6. Obtain the establishment's National Address.

This service is also available via the website, customer service (19992), or the "SPL" application. Accounts can be accessed after registration in two ways: either by using the previously created username and password, or via the National Single Sign-On platform (Nafath), which uses "Absher" data. This includes receiving an alert message containing a verification code on the mobile number registered in "Absher".

Understanding SPL Subscription Number (Digital PO Box)

The Digital PO Box is a secure and fixed postal address consisting of a code and a postal number granted to the customer. This address allows for the receipt of incoming postal items (domestic or international) with multiple delivery options, without the need for a physical box or key. This service requires an annual subscription.

Digital PO Box Subscription Process:

1. Log in to your "SPL Online" account or create a new account.

2. Click on the "Subscriptions" icon and select "Digital PO Boxes".

3. Specify the city and region.

4. Choose the desired office for subscription.

5. Proceed to the electronic payment gateway and complete the payment.

6. Disseminate the new address to all entities the customer wishes to correspond with.

"SPL"'s reliance on the National Single Sign-On platform (Nafath) and "Absher" data for account login represents a significant turning point. This indicates a deep integration of "SPL" services within the broader Saudi Arabian government digital ecosystem. This integration facilitates user access by leveraging their pre-authenticated identities, enhancing security and reducing the need for repetitive registration processes across different government services. It also makes Absher registration a prerequisite for fully utilizing SPL's electronic services, underscoring the interconnectedness of digital government services.

Furthermore, the Digital PO Box offers a modern and alternative solution to traditional physical PO Boxes, providing greater flexibility and eliminating the need for a key or fixed location. This shift towards digital services meets the needs of individuals and businesses in a mobile and digital work environment, aligning with global trends in remote work and e-commerce. It also alleviates the logistical burden of managing physical boxes.

Financial Aspects and Payment Methods for SPL Services

Some Saudi Post "SPL" services require annual subscription fees that vary between individuals, companies, and government entities.

Annual Fees for SPL Services (Individuals vs. Businesses)

Digital PO Box Fees (Annually):

• Individuals/Residents/Citizens: 150 Saudi Riyals for the main subscriber.

• Government Entities (Main Centers and Administrative City Branches): 1720 Saudi Riyals.

• Government Entities (Governorate and City Branches): 516 Saudi Riyals.

• Companies: 1720 Saudi Riyals.

National Address Fees for Business Sector (Annually):

• Main Register Companies: 1000 Saudi Riyals annually.

• Sub-Register Companies: 300 Saudi Riyals annually.

• Main Register Establishments: 500 Saudi Riyals annually.

• Sub-Register Establishments: 100 Saudi Riyals annually.

Exemption for New Establishments: New establishments and companies are exempt from subscription fees for the first year of the Certified Business Address service. The subscription value is added as credit to the customer's account on "SPL Online" only upon renewal, not in the first year.

Renewal Process: "SPL" notifies customers (individuals, establishments, companies) 15 days before the subscription period ends via SMS or email. A 30-day grace period is granted for renewal starting from the previous subscription's end date. If fees are not paid within this grace period, "SPL" has the right to close the box for 30 days in preparation for subscription termination. If the customer wishes to renew during the preliminary closure period, the new subscription starts from the day following the previous subscription's end date. Government entity subscriptions are automatically renewed unless the entity notifies "SPL" in writing of a cancellation request.

Methods for Paying Annual SPL Subscription Fees

Annual subscription fees for "SPL" services can be paid through the following channels:

• Online through the "SPL Online" website.

• Through the "SPL" smartphone application.

• All outstanding postal service bills can be easily paid online.

• The annual subscription value for the "Certified Business Address" service is added as credit to the customer's account on "SPL Online" upon renewal, and this credit can be used to pay for other postal services.

Saudi Post (SPL) Payment Code in Saudi Banks

Sources indicate that postal service bills are paid through the "SADAD" system. However, a specific "SADAD" biller code for Saudi Post "SPL" was not explicitly provided in the research materials. It is assumed that payment is integrated within the "SADAD" system, which typically uses a specific biller code for each service provider. For inquiries regarding the biller code or payment methods, customer service can be contacted at 19992.

The exemption from first-year fees for new establishments and companies represents a clear government incentive. By waiving initial subscription fees for startups and new market entrants, "SPL" (and by extension, the Saudi government) aims to reduce the initial financial burden on these entities. This encourages formal business registration and the adoption of official addresses, which is crucial for regulatory compliance, tax collection, and overall economic transparency. It is a strategic move to foster a more robust and formalized business environment.

Furthermore, the tiered pricing structure for Digital PO Boxes and National Address for businesses, and the credit-back system, indicate a clear revenue model for "SPL". The varied fees based on entity type (individual, government, company, main/sub-register) demonstrate a structured commercial approach. The mechanism of converting subscription fees into credit for other services encourages customers to utilize more of "SPL"'s offerings, fostering loyalty and increasing overall engagement with the services. This commercialization is essential for "SPL"'s transformation and its ability to invest in service improvement and expansion.

The detailed terms regarding subscription renewal and consequences of non-payment highlight the critical importance of maintaining an active "SPL" account for businesses. The penalty for delayed renewal (box closure, potential termination) implies that an active "SPL" address is not merely a convenience, but a necessity for business continuity and compliance. This is particularly true given that the National Address is a prerequisite for other government platforms. Businesses must factor these annual fees and renewal processes into their operational planning to avoid any disruption.

Differences Between SPL Services for Individuals and Businesses

Saudi Post "SPL" services show clear differences in offerings and access methods between individuals and businesses, reflecting the nature of needs and regulatory requirements for each category.

Key Differences in Service Offerings and Access Methods

• National Address Registration: Free for individuals, while it incurs annual fees for companies and establishments, varying by commercial registration type.

• Official Mail: Primarily directed at government entities, although it can be addressed to companies, institutions, or individuals. This indicates a more structured and formal process for official communications involving entities.

• Digital PO Box: Available to both individuals and businesses, but with different annual subscription fees, with higher fees for companies.

• Regular PO Boxes: Provided for individuals, government departments, institutions, and companies. However, commercial use of boxes designated for individuals is prohibited.

• Parcel Services: Available to both individuals and businesses for sending and tracking various items.

• Account Activation/Login: Both categories can use "Absher" / "Nafath" for login, but business registration involves selecting "Business Sector Registration".

• First-Year Fee Exemption: New establishments and companies are exempt from subscription fees for the first year of the Certified Business Address service, a benefit not mentioned for individuals.

Comparative Analysis of Subscription Fees

As detailed in Section Four, fees for National Address and Digital PO Box services vary significantly between individuals and different types of companies/establishments. Businesses generally face higher annual fees, reflecting the commercial nature and potential volume of their postal and addressing needs.

The disparity in fee structures and service terms between individuals and businesses reflects a clear regulatory and commercial distinction in how "SPL" views and prices its services. The fact that National Address registration is free for individuals but paid for businesses, and that Digital PO Box fees are higher for businesses/government, suggests that "SPL" treats businesses as commercial entities with higher service demands and regulatory requirements. The prohibition of commercial use for individual PO Boxes reinforces this separation. This tiered approach indicates that "SPL" is optimizing its revenue streams while fulfilling its public service duty to individuals.

Additionally, specific services and incentives (such as the first-year fee exemption for new businesses) highlight "SPL"'s role in facilitating formal establishment and corporate operations in the Kingdom. By offering tailored services and incentives for businesses, "SPL" positions itself as an essential partner in the business ecosystem. The National Address and Digital PO Box are not just conveniences but often mandatory requirements for legal and operational compliance. This makes "SPL" a provider of vital infrastructure for economic development in Saudi Arabia, supporting the growth of both local and international businesses.

SPL and Bank Account Opening in Saudi Arabia

Registration with the National Address through Saudi Post "SPL" is a fundamental requirement for opening bank accounts in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, for both individuals and businesses.

SPL Requirements (National Address) for Bank Account Opening

Registration with the National Address (via "SPL") is a mandatory requirement for opening a bank account in Saudi Arabia for both individuals and businesses. This condition applies to online account opening processes, along with other requirements such as an active "Absher" account, a valid ID card (National ID / Iqama), and being 18 years of age or older.

During the online bank account opening process, personal information and National Address information are automatically retrieved from "Absher" and "SPL" respectively, after identity verification via the "Nafath" platform.

The requirement of a National Address for opening bank accounts positions "SPL" as a core component for accessing the financial system in Saudi Arabia. This means that without a registered National Address, individuals and businesses cannot fully participate in the formal banking sector. This elevates "SPL"'s role from merely a postal service to a critical component of the national financial infrastructure, ensuring address verification and compliance for financial institutions.

Furthermore, the seamless retrieval of National Address data from "SPL" during the bank account opening process, facilitated by "Absher" and "Nafath", demonstrates a high degree of integration among Saudi government digital platforms. This indicates a sophisticated and interconnected digital ecosystem where data can be securely shared between various government entities (Ministry of Interior for Absher, "SPL" for National Address, and banks for financial services). This integration simplifies administrative processes for citizens and businesses, enhancing efficiency and data accuracy across all domains, which is a key objective of Vision 2030.

SPL Integration with Key Government and Commercial Platforms:

The relationship between Saudi Post "SPL" and key government and commercial platforms in Saudi Arabia demonstrates deep integration, with "SPL" often serving as a fundamental enabler for these platforms' operations.

Link Between Madad Platform and SPL

The "Madad" platform is an HR and payroll management platform, which includes compliance with the Wage Protection System, adding/excluding employees from social insurance, and linking company accounts to banks for salary disbursement.

Direct Relationship: Although "Madad"'s core services do not involve direct postal delivery, the National Address (provided by "SPL") is a mandatory requirement for companies to have an active account and operate on the "Madad" platform. This applies to company registration and employee account activation on "Absher" (which is linked to the "Madad" platform).

Link Between Qiwa Platform and SPL

The "Qiwa" platform is a labor and HR services platform, facilitating tasks such as new account registration, employee contract management, and booking appointments with labor offices.

Direct Relationship: Similar to "Madad", the National Address (provided by "SPL") is a prerequisite for registering a new account on the "Qiwa" platform. It is a required document for companies to operate and comply with labor regulations through "Qiwa".

Link Between Muqeem Platform and SPL

The "Muqeem" platform is primarily used for managing resident identities (Iqamas).

Direct Relationship (Physical Delivery): "SPL" plays a crucial role in the physical delivery of newly issued Iqama cards for new employees. The process involves requesting Iqama card delivery through platforms like "Absher Business" or "Tawasul", which then utilize "SPL" for actual delivery to the specified address. This simplifies the process of obtaining physical Iqama documents. "SPL" also offers services such as shipment redirection, although this is a general service and not specific to Muqeem integration.

The consistent requirement of the National Address (from "SPL") for platforms like "Madad" and "Qiwa" underscores "SPL"'s fundamental role in ensuring corporate compliance with labor laws and regulations. "Madad" and "Qiwa" platforms are crucial for businesses to manage their workforce, comply with wage protection laws, and interact with the Ministry of Human Resources. By making the National Address a prerequisite for these platforms, the government ensures that all registered businesses have a verifiable physical address for official communications, inspections, and legal purposes. This integrates "SPL" into the core regulatory framework for businesses, making it indispensable for legal operation.

Furthermore, the integration with "Muqeem" for Iqama card delivery highlights that even in a highly digital government ecosystem, physical logistics remain critical, and "SPL" is the primary provider for these services. While platforms like "Muqeem" are digital, the need for physical documents such as Iqama cards persists. The excerpt clearly illustrates how "SPL" is used to deliver these cards. This demonstrates that "SPL" acts as a key arm for the physical execution of various digital government services, bridging the gap between digital processes and the need for tangible outputs, especially for critical identity-related documents. This ensures that the final delivery of official government documents is secure and efficient.

Virtual Addresses and Office Solutions for Companies in Saudi Arabia

Virtual addresses and flexible office solutions have become a popular and viable option for companies in Saudi Arabia, supported by the presence of specialized companies like "Motaded Limited".

Feasibility and Benefits of Using Virtual Addresses for Companies

Virtual addresses are indeed feasible and available through numerous providers in Saudi Arabia.

Definition of Virtual Address: A real physical address (such as a post office or a prestigious office building) where companies can receive their mail and parcels. It serves as an official business address without the need to rent a large physical office space.

Benefits:

• Cost Control: Helps small businesses, startups, and home-based businesses significantly manage operational costs.

• Professional Image: Provides a prestigious business image, especially for startups, without the financial burdens of a physical office.

• Flexibility and Remote Work: Allows companies to work remotely from anywhere while maintaining a physical presence in a chosen city.

• Mail Management: Includes services such as mail forwarding to any preferred location.

• Administrative Support: Some providers offer administrative support, reception services, and access to meeting rooms.

Role of Motaded Limited in Assisting Investors in SPL and Business Establishment

Motaded Limited: A Saudi-based company focused on supporting businesses and investors in Saudi Arabia.

Comprehensive Support: Motaded offers comprehensive services for companies establishing or operating in the Kingdom, including:

• Guidance and consultation on various business aspects.

• Assistance in obtaining commercial licenses and permits.

• Visa application management.

• Ensuring compliance with operational requirements.

• Support in registration with the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority.

• Registration on key regulatory platforms such as "Madad", "Muqeem", and "Qiwa".

• Public relations and government relations services.

• Human resources services.

Link to "SPL": Motaded's assistance in registering on platforms like "Madad", "Muqeem", and "Qiwa" implicitly includes ensuring their clients' National Address registration with "SPL", as this is a prerequisite for those platforms.

Services Provided by Motaded Limited (Including Virtual Address and Co-working Spaces)

• Virtual Address Services: Motaded Limited explicitly offers virtual address services. This allows companies to establish a professional presence without the need for a physical office.

• Co-working Spaces: Motaded also provides co-working spaces, which are flexible, fully equipped office spaces suitable for businesses of all sizes, including short-term or long-term office solutions.

• Additional Services (from similar providers like Servcorp/SuperOffice mentioned in excerpts, indicating market offerings):

  • Meeting rooms and conference halls.

  • Corporate reception services.

  • Call center services.

  • Access to administrative support.

  • High-speed Wi-Fi and technical support.

  • Global access to co-working spaces and meeting rooms for some packages.

  • Flexible pricing models (e.g., hourly, monthly, annually).

The comprehensive services offered by companies like "Motaded", particularly their focus on virtual addresses and co-working spaces, indicate a strong supportive ecosystem designed to attract and facilitate foreign direct investment and entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia. Motaded's explicit mission to "support companies in investing in Saudi Arabia" and its wide range of services from licensing to HR and platform registration, in addition to virtual office solutions and co-working spaces, suggest a deliberate strategy to lower entry barriers for businesses. This aligns with Vision 2030's goals for economic diversification and making the Kingdom an attractive business destination by providing flexible and cost-effective operational solutions, especially for international investors or startups who may not need or desire a large physical presence initially.

Furthermore, the widespread availability and benefits of virtual addresses and co-working spaces indicate a shift towards more flexible and agile business models in Saudi Arabia. The excerpts confirm that virtual addresses are a viable option, offering cost savings and a professional image without the need for a traditional office. This trend reflects a global shift towards remote work and flexible operations, which Saudi Arabia is embracing. This allows businesses to test the market, reduce overheads, and scale operations more efficiently, suggesting a progressive regulatory environment that supports diverse operational strategies.

Office Space Requirements for Company Establishment in Saudi Arabia

The office space required for establishing companies in Saudi Arabia largely depends on the specific commercial activity. However, a virtual address can be sufficient in the initial stages.

Minimum Office Space Based on Commercial Activity

The required office space for establishing a company in Saudi Arabia varies according to the specific commercial activity. The excerpts provide examples of minimum space requirements for different types of establishments, according to municipal regulations:

• General Office: Minimum 16 square meters.

• Commercial Shops/Buildings: Minimum 24 square meters.

• Large Offices (e.g., for specific activities): Minimum 100 square meters.

• Other Specific Activities: Have varying requirements, e.g., 30 square meters for some shops, and 50 square meters for others.

These requirements often come with additional official approvals, such as Civil Defense approval.

Sufficiency of Virtual Address for Initial Company Establishment

The inquiry itself states that a virtual address is "initially sufficient" for company establishment, although the actual space required depends on the commercial activity. This is supported by the availability and benefits of virtual address services, which allow companies to have an official presence without the need to immediately rent a physical office. A virtual address provides a legitimate business address, a professional image, and mail handling, making it a practical solution for initial setup, especially for businesses that do not require an immediate physical presence.

The office market in Saudi Arabia, particularly in Riyadh, is experiencing significant growth, with expectations of substantial space additions by 2027 and high occupancy rates for premium spaces. This indicates a healthy demand for both physical and virtual office solutions.

Allowing the use of virtual addresses as "initially sufficient" despite specific physical space requirements indicates a regulatory framework that supports phased business growth and diverse operating models. This means that while physical space may be required for certain operational activities later, initial registration and legal presence can be established without it. This flexibility is crucial for startups and businesses with remote operations, allowing them to defer significant overhead costs until their operations scale or require a physical presence. This encourages entrepreneurship by reducing initial capital requirements.

Furthermore, the coexistence of increasing physical office space supply and the growing acceptance of virtual addresses suggests a shift towards a hybrid office model in the Saudi market. The excerpt highlights significant growth in physical office spaces, especially in Riyadh, with high occupancy for premium spaces. This indicates strong demand for traditional offices, likely for established businesses or those requiring a substantial physical presence. At the same time, the strong emphasis on virtual addresses caters to flexible, remote, or smaller operations. This dual trend suggests a market that supports a wide range of business needs, from full physical offices to fully virtual setups, or a combination thereof, reflecting modern work trends and business strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions about SPL

Saudi Post "SPL" provides clear answers to a range of frequently asked questions to ensure transparency and facilitate customer experience.

What does "SPL" mean?

"SPL" (plural of "Sabeel") means "path" or "way". This new identity represents Saudi Post's path in its ongoing transformation, highlighting its vision as a leading national group in providing logistics and postal services, acting as a link between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the world.

Is the identity change gradual?

Yes, the identity change will be implemented gradually across all owned and leased assets of the institution, according to allocated budgets and priorities.

Was this change necessary?

Yes, change itself is necessary in all aspects of life. As a national institution that has embarked on a strategic transformation journey, this developmental measure requires the institution's continuity within a new intellectual framework and a business culture based on commercial principles, to enable it to compete according to international standards in this field.

Is "SPL" a new company or part of Saudi Post?

"SPL" is the new identity of Saudi Post, with a modern and new spirit, form, and vision that aligns with the nature and requirements of the future stage.

Is "SPL" a government entity or a private sector entity?

Saudi Post "SPL" remains a government sector, but the transformation strategy includes key steps to convert the business model to operate on commercial principles.

Will working hours and customer service change?

Working hours will be improved, and procedures will be developed to meet customer aspirations and serve them better and faster.

Will "SPL" offer the same products as Saudi Post previously?

Yes, "SPL" will continue to provide the same products offered by Saudi Post, while striving to add and develop more postal and logistics products and services, aiming to keep pace with global changes and satisfy customers from individuals, government, and private sectors.

Can customers use their current personal identifiers for online services?

Yes, customers can log in to their accounts with the same personal identifier.

Can branches with the old Saudi Post logo serve customers?

Absolutely, all customers can benefit from the services of Saudi Post branches, whether they bear the old or new logo.

How to request a refund for a postal item?

A refund can be requested within 3 hours of submitting the shipping request. If the shipment is still at the post office branch, the shipment is returned, and service fees are refunded. If the shipment has left the branch, it is requested to be returned to the branch and delivered upon arrival with a refund of fees. After 3 hours, if the shipment is at the branch, it is returned to the customer without a refund of service fees. If it has left the branch, the customer must submit a refund request via the "SPL" website or available customer service channels, and it will be delivered upon arrival for a fee, if any.

Can the recipient's address be modified?

Yes, the customer has the right to request a modification of the recipient's address for a fee via the "SPL" website or customer service channels before the shipment arrives.

What happens if postal items are delivered incorrectly?

If the shipment is delivered to the wrong person, the sender must submit a request. "SPL" attempts to retrieve it. If retrieval is not possible, "SPL" compensates the customer for the full value of the shipment if it was insured. If it was not insured, compensation is made according to the compensation policy for lost shipments.

What happens if postal items cannot be delivered due to the recipient's unresponsiveness?

• Express Service: If the shipment cannot be delivered for any reason after 3 contact attempts (e.g., inability to contact, unresponsiveness, refusal, or neglect of receipt), the shipment will be held for pickup at the recipient's city branch for 10 days. If not picked up, the shipment is returned to the sender's branch to be held for another 10 days. If the sender does not pick it up, it will be held in operations for 6 months, after which "SPL" has the right to dispose of the shipment.

• Economy Service: If the recipient cannot pick up the shipment from the branch for 30 days for any reason (e.g., inability to contact, unresponsiveness, refusal, or neglect of receipt), "SPL" has the right to return it to the sender's branch to be held for 30 days. If not picked up, it will be held in operations for 6 months, after which "SPL" has the right to dispose of the shipment.

The detailed answers to frequently asked questions about identity, service continuity, and specific operational issues such as refunds and delayed deliveries demonstrate a proactive approach to managing customer expectations during a period of significant change. This focus on clarity and problem-solving is crucial for building trust and ensuring the smooth adoption of new services, which characterizes a customer-centric strategy.

Furthermore, the detailed policies regarding failed deliveries, unclaimed items, and compensation highlight "SPL"'s structured approach to risk management in its logistics operations. The clear timelines for holding unclaimed shipments and compensation terms (insured vs. uninsured) demonstrate a clear framework for managing operational risks and liabilities. This policy transparency is important for both senders and recipients, providing clarity on responsibilities and recourse in case of delivery issues. This indicates a mature operational model designed to minimize disputes and protect both the service provider and its customers.

Conclusion

The recent transformation of Saudi Post into "SPL" demonstrates a deep commitment to Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to solidify the Kingdom's position as a global logistics hub. This transformation is not limited to a change in visual identity but extends to a fundamental restructuring of the business model towards commercial principles, while maintaining its role as a vital government entity.

The National Address service provided by "SPL" is a cornerstone of the Kingdom's digital infrastructure. Its importance extends beyond mail delivery to being a prerequisite for opening bank accounts and registering on key government platforms such as "Madad" and "Qiwa". This deep integration with other government platforms highlights "SPL"'s role as a key enabler of digital transformation and commercial compliance in the Kingdom.

"SPL" offers a wide range of diverse services for individuals and businesses, with clear differences in fees and terms of use reflecting the nature and regulatory needs of each category. The tiered fee structures and exemptions for new businesses indicate a strategic direction towards incentivizing the business environment and enhancing revenues.

In the context of a flexible business environment, virtual addresses and co-working office solutions have become viable options for companies in the Kingdom, offering significant flexibility in costs and operations. Companies like "Motaded Limited" play a vital role in supporting investors by providing comprehensive services that include facilitating National Address requirements and registration on government platforms, thereby reducing entry barriers and contributing to attracting investments.

Despite the trend towards comprehensive digitalization, "SPL" continues to play an indispensable role in physical logistics services, such as Iqama card delivery, bridging the gap between digital operations and the need for tangible documents.

Overall, Saudi Post "SPL" is considered not just a postal service provider, but a strategic partner and a fundamental enabler of digital transformation and economic development in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on efficiency, innovation, and customer service.