Vision 2030 of the nation has introduced several business-friendly reforms, making Saudi company registration easier for foreign investors to set up a business in Saudi Arabia. The reforms have permitted 100% foreign ownership in Saudi Arabia without the entrepreneur needing a local partner. Saudi Arabia, situated strategically for conducting business across Europe, Asia, and Africa, is a thriving hub for company registration, attracting companies and investors from around the world.
Before venturing into Company Formation in Saudi Arabia, a foreign investor has to select the type of business under which the enterprise will operate. The types of business structures available for foreign investors are mentioned below.
- LLC (Limited Liability Company)
- Foreign Company Branch
- JSC (Joint Stock Company)
- General Partnership
- Technical and Scientific Offices (TSO)
- The Establishment
- Regional Headquarters (RHQ)
Steps for Saudi Company Registration
The steps below may be followed to register a company in Saudi Arabia.
- Registration with the Ministry of Investment, Saudi Arabia: After the New Investment Law of Saudi Arabia came into effect in February 2025, it will be necessary for businesses only to register with the Ministry of Investment for the lawful operation of their business in the country.
- Choosing Your Business Name: Define your organization’s formal and unique identity, ensuring legal compliance and creating a solid brand presence.
- Legalizing Articles of Association: Validate the official acceptance of your Articles of Association to ensure their legitimate and authorized status.
- Completing Commercial Registration: Formally enrol your business in lawful commercial endeavours with a Commercial Registration Certificate in Saudi Arabia.
- Listing with the Chamber of Commerce (COC): It is mandatory to register with the Chamber of Commerce.
- Filing with the Ministry of Labor: Businesses in Saudi Arabia must register with the Ministry of Labor, ensuring compliance with employment laws.
- Issue General Manager’s Visa: GM needs swift approval for a residence permit and visa, with the MLSD (Ministry of Labour and Social Development) managing essential labour documentation.
- Enrolling the National Address for Your Company: Establish an authorized business address for inclusion in government records.
- Listing with Qiwa portal – Human Resources & Social Development: The Qiwa platform enhances Ministry of Human Resources & Social Development services, optimizing electronic solutions for the labour sector.
- Enrolment with Zakat, VAT & Corporate tax: Businesses in Saudi Arabia must register for tax compliance with the Zakat, VAT & Corporate tax.
- Company seal: Obtain the company seal
- Listing with Muqeem portal: For residency data management, ensuring real-time coordination with Saudi authorities for efficient entry and exit processes.
- Filing with Absher portal: Access 279+ services for Saudi residents, from appointments to passport renewals, ID cards, driver’s licenses, and more—all in one convenient application.
- Enrolment with the General Organization for Social Insurance
- Establish Your Business Bank Account.
Company registration documents Saudi Arabia
- Investment registration Application Form to apply for MISA registration
- Notarized Business Resolution — A document listing all partners’ names and shares of each partner’s capital.
- Audited Financial Statements — Financial statements from the previous fiscal year show the company’s financial health.
- Articles of Association — Notarized document outlining the company’s purpose and internal regulations.
- Passport copies of Shareholders — Copies of passports to verify shareholders’ identities.
- ID Proof and Address — ID proof and address of all directors and shareholders are needed.
- Attested Power of Attorney — Power of Attorney attested, granting legal authority to your representative in Saudi Arabia.
How can the business registration process in Saudi Arabia be simplified?
A few key points to simplify the process are indicated below:
- Digital platform: Utilize a single online portal for different steps for company registration, such as name reservation, document submission and status updates.
- To reduce paperwork: Minimize required documents by pre-filing information and allowing electronic signatures.
- Faster approvals: Reduce the processing time by implementing automated systems for preliminary approvals.
- Streamline data sharing Between agencies like the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of Investment and the Chamber of Commerce.
- Clear guidelines: Make available detailed information regarding required licenses, fees and compliance procedures for different business types.
- Dedicated support: Establish a dedicated business support desk to guide the entrepreneurs through the registration process
- Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update the registration process based on feedback from the stakeholders.
How does the Helpline Group help set up a business in Saudi Arabia?
Helpline Group, with 25 years of experience and backed by a team of more than 300+ qualified members, is a professional consulting agency operating in more than 10 branches worldwide.
We specialize in forming KSA Business setups, including PRO services, with all the necessary registrations and approvals in countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, etc.
The Group takes pride in offering seamless and quality services to meet all your requirements and assure you of our services at any time.
