Register a Company in Saudi Arabia
Registering a company in Saudi Arabia is simple when you have the right guidance. With Block3 Finance, you can focus your time and resources on the growth of your business, leaving the registration process in our capable hands.
Saudi Arabia's oil-driven economy offers vast opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs. With significant reforms, especially under Vision 2030, the Kingdom has created a favorable environment for business start-ups and foreign investment.
With our expert team, you’ll experience a seamless registration process, ensuring your company is up and running within the stipulated time frame.
Our Saudi Arabia Company Registration Service Package Includes
Company Registration with the Saudi Ministry of Commerce and Investment
Local Company Secretary and Registered Address
Corporate Bank Account Opening
Tax Registration
Employment Visa Application
Annual Accounting and Tax Services
When Can I Expect to Start My Business in Saudi Arabia?
Block3 Finance will complete your company registration in Saudi Arabia within 7 months. After receiving all necessary due diligence documents from directors and shareholders, we’ll initiate the name check and prepare your incorporation documents.
The process is entirely online, so there’s no need for you to travel to Saudi Arabia. You will receive your company’s legal documents, including the Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum of Association.
Within 6 weeks after registration, we’ll open your corporate bank account with a reputable local or international bank, providing you with the forms and facilitating KYC verifications through video conferencing.
You can expect to start operations and issue invoices within 7 months of engaging Block3 Finance.
Can Foreigners Start a Business in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Saudi Arabia allows 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, enabling international entrepreneurs to establish fully-owned businesses. The government has significantly expanded foreign ownership in industries such as tourism, healthcare, and solar energy, providing numerous opportunities.
Types of Companies in Saudi Arabia
1. Saudi Arabia Limited Liability Company (LLC): The most common choice for foreign companies. The LLC offers limited liability to its shareholders and can be established with 1 shareholder (as of 2016).
Key Features:
Minimum Capital: SAR 1 million (for industrial projects)
Shareholders: Up to 50
Directors: 1 Saudi resident required
Advantages: Ability to sponsor residency for employees, business throughout the Kingdom, and the industrial sector benefits.
2. Joint Stock Company (JSC) A JSC can be formed with 2 shareholders and 3 directors. It is ideal for larger enterprises, with shares that can be traded publicly after meeting legal requirements.
Key Features:
Minimum Capital: US$134,000
Board of Directors: 3-11 members
Advantages: Flexibility in share transfer and the ability to issue shares and bonds.
3. Branch Office A branch of a foreign company is fully owned by the parent company. It has fewer formation requirements but the parent company assumes full liability for the branch. Advantages: Simpler formation, direct operations in Saudi Arabia, and ability to solicit business.
4. Sole Proprietorship (SPC) An SPC allows a single individual to own and operate the business with limited liability.
Key Features:
Minimum Capital: SAR 50,000
Advantages: No need for annual meetings, greater control for the owner.
Steps to Register a Company in Saudi Arabia
1. Choose a Suitable Business Structure: We’ll guide you through selecting the best company structure to meet your business goals and legal requirements.
2. Application for Investment License: For foreign investors, obtaining an Investment License from the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA) is mandatory. This process includes submitting financial details and receiving pre-approval for 100% foreign ownership.
3. Reserve Company Name: We’ll help you choose and reserve your preferred company name through the Unified Centre.
4. Preparation of Incorporation Documents: Once the company name is approved, we’ll prepare the necessary documents, including the Articles of Incorporation, Business Plan, and Personal Information of Shareholders and Directors.
5. Register with MoCI and Obtain CR: We’ll submit the registration documents to the Ministry of Commerce and Investment (MoCI) and obtain your Commercial Registration (CR).
6. Apply for SAGIA Foreign Business License: After completing the commercial registration, we’ll apply for the SAGIA Foreign Business License, allowing you to operate legally.
7. Create Company Seal: We’ll assist in creating your official company seal, which is used for documents such as contracts and official business transactions.
8. Register with the Chamber of Commerce: We’ll register your company with the Chamber of Commerce, and within 30 days, submit the required documents to get membership.
9. Open a Corporate Bank Account: We’ll assist in opening a corporate bank account with a reputable local or international bank in Saudi Arabia.
10. Stay Compliant After opening the bank account, we’ll ensure your business remains compliant with Saudi Arabia’s tax laws, submitting tax returns and financial statements on your behalf.
Documents Required for Company Registration in Saudi Arabia
Company Name Reservation
Notarized passport copies and details of directors and shareholders
Articles and Memorandum of Association
Business Plan
Registered Office Address Details
KYC Documents (Proof of Address, Bank Reference Letter)
Advantages of Doing Business in Saudi Arabia
Political: Saudi Arabia maintains a pro-business environment and has improved its business regulations, making it easier to do business.
Economic: The Kingdom boasts the largest economy in the Middle East, with stable macroeconomic conditions.
Social: The government aims to increase foreign investment and reduce dependency on oil.
Technological: Saudi Arabia has one of the most advanced IT sectors in the Gulf region.
Legal: Foreigners can own businesses 100% in most sectors, with no tax on corporate or personal income.
Disadvantages of Doing Business in Saudi Arabia
High Costs: Minimum capital requirements for foreign businesses can be high.
Government Restrictions: Certain industries are restricted to foreign investors.
Delayed Deal Execution: Due to bureaucracy and regulatory hurdles, business approvals may take time.
Why Register a Company in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia offers a business-friendly environment, attractive investment opportunities, and the ability to 100% own your business. Despite some challenges, it remains a prime location for foreign investment.
Get Started with Company Registration in Saudi Arabia
Contact Block3 Finance today to learn more about how to register a company in Saudi Arabia. Our expert team will respond within 24 hours.
