Register Company in Saudi Arabia

Fionza Consultants assist our international clients to register company in Saudi Arabia. Our service package includes Saudi Arabia company registration, providing local nominee directors, opening Saudi Arabia corporate bank accounts and visa applications. Fionza Consultants is the one-stop solution for you to start legally conduct business in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia

Company Registration – 36 Weeks
Local Director? – No
Bank Account Opening – 6 Weeks
Travel Required – No

Register Company in Saudi Arabia

Embarking on the journey to register a company in Saudi Arabia can be stress-free, especially when armed with a deep understanding of the entire process. Fionza Consultants stands ready to guide you, allowing you to redirect your focus towards more critical aspects of your business.

With our efficiency-focused approach, entrust our seasoned team to deliver a smooth experience throughout the entire Saudi Arabia business setup process. Our commitment is to have your Saudi Arabia company operational within the set timeframe.

Explore our comprehensive service package, covering all essentials for conducting business in Saudi Arabia:

Company Registration: Seamlessly navigate the process with the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Commerce and Investment.
Local Company Secretary and Registered Address: Ensure compliance with local regulations through our expert assistance.
Corporate Bank Account Opening: Access local or international banking solutions tailored to your business needs.
Tax Registration: Stay ahead of regulatory requirements with our support in tax registration.
Employment Visa Application: Facilitate smooth employee onboarding through our visa application services.
Annual Accounting and Tax Services: Maintain financial compliance effortlessly with our ongoing support.

Experience a hassle-free journey to establish your business in Saudi Arabia with Fionza Consultants.

When can I expect to start business?

Fionza Consultants ensures swift company registration in Saudi Arabia, completing the process within just 7 months upon receiving due diligence documents from directors and shareholders. Following registration, we expedite the setup further by opening a corporate bank account with a reputable local bank within 6 weeks. This streamlined approach guarantees that you can kickstart your operations in Saudi Arabia within a mere 9 months from engaging Fionza Consultants.

Introduction to Saudi Arabia

Discover Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation – home to the world’s largest crude oil reserves and a key player in OPEC. With 16% of global petroleum reserves, it leads as a major oil exporter. Beyond the petroleum sector, the Kingdom strategically reinvests oil revenues to diversify its economy and reduce reliance.

In a significant development, Saudi Arabia attracted 1,131 new international companies in 2019, emphasizing its commitment to economic growth, as outlined in the Investment Highlights Winter 2020 report. On the global stage, it ranks as the seventh-largest stock market.

In line with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has enacted forward-thinking measures, including new procurement and insolvency laws, bolstered legal infrastructure, a commercial arbitration center, and streamlined residency permits. These reforms are designed to entice international businesses with expedited incorporation processes. Noteworthy is the Kingdom’s policy allowing full foreign ownership and the introduction of a specialized entrepreneur license, enabling global entrepreneurs to establish fully foreign-owned startups within a day. Explore Saudi Arabia’s dynamic business landscape for unparalleled opportunities.

Types of business activities

Explore the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), an alliance comprising Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, each subject to distinct legal frameworks. Saudi Arabia, a key player, presents diverse investment opportunities in real estate, construction, hospitality, and burgeoning sectors like solar energy.

Saudi Arabia stands at the forefront of industrial and construction growth, with an estimated USD $100 billion planned investment over the next decade. The healthcare industry also flourishes, offering significant investment potential as the largest market for medical equipment and healthcare-related products in the Middle East.

The government actively promotes the solar energy sector to combat fuel pollution, creating a lucrative market for investors. The country’s hot climate further facilitates solar energy production, making it a promising avenue for investment. Opportunities range from solar panel sales to various segments within the industry.

In 2000, the Supreme Economic Council approved the Foreign Investment Act (FIA), providing a comprehensive framework for non-Saudi nationals to invest in minority, majority, or wholly foreign-owned ventures. Explore these dynamic sectors and leverage the FIA to unlock lucrative investment prospects in Saudi Arabia’s evolving market.

Saudi Arabia Negative List

Restricted Commercial Activities under Saudi Foreign Investment Law

Discover the limitations set by the Supreme Economic Council (SEC) under the Foreign Investment Law. Please refer to Appendix 1 for a detailed list with exceptions provided by the Saudi Embassy.

Section 1: Industrial Sector

Oil exploration, drilling, and production
Military equipment, devices, and uniforms
Civilian explosives

Section 2: Service Sector

Catering to military sectors
Security and detective services
Real estate investment in Makkah and Madina
Tourist orientation and guidance services related to Hajj and Umrah
Recruitment and employment services
Printing and publishing (with exceptions)
Distribution services, wholesale, and retail trade
Medical retail services and private pharmacies
Commercial agencies (with exceptions)
Audiovisual and media services
Telecommunications services (with exceptions)
Land and air transportation
Satellite transmission services
Services rendered by midwives, nurses, physiotherapists, and paramedics listed at 93191 by international classification codes
Blood banks, poison centers, and quarantines

For the full list and exceptions, kindly refer to Appendix 1 provided by the Saudi Embassy. Explore viable investment opportunities within the permissible sectors outlined by the Foreign Investment Law.

Requirements to register company in Saudi Arabia

Essential Requirements for a Saudi Arabia Limited Liability Company

As outlined by the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Commerce and Investment, the minimum prerequisites for a Saudi Arabia limited liability company include:

Directorship: At least 1 director of any nationality (requirements may vary based on company structure).
Shareholding: 2 shareholders of any nationality (requirements may vary based on compliance conditions).
General Manager: A resident in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) must serve as the general manager.
Registered Address: A local registered address is mandatory.
Paid-Up Capital: A minimum paid-up share capital of US$134,000, as required by the Saudi Arabia General Investment Authority.

Ensure compliance with these fundamental criteria to establish and operate a limited liability company in Saudi Arabia. For detailed information and specific conditions, please refer to the regulations provided by the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Commerce and Investment.

What types of companies are there?

Choosing the Right Business Structure in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide

Before embarking on the journey to register a company in Saudi Arabia, it is crucial to align your business needs and long-term goals with the most suitable entity. Fionza Consultants, once engaged, conducts a thorough analysis of your business structure and recommends the optimal business entity tailored to your requirements.

Saudi Arabia Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Key Features:

Minimum 2 and maximum 50 shareholders (can be one shareholder since 2016, with certain restrictions).
Minimum capitalization requirements set by SAGIA (Saudi Arabia General Investment Authority).
Retention of 10% of net profits for statutory reserves.

Advantages:

Ability to sponsor residency for employees.
Qualification for favorable financing rates, especially in the industrial sector.
Promotion of business throughout the Kingdom for both public and private sectors.

Disadvantages:

Business activities confined to those approved by SAGIA.
Limited control for foreign partners over company management.
Significant initial capitalization required.

Joint Stock Company (JSC)

Key Features:

Minimum 2 shareholders (as of 2016, reduced from the previous requirement of 5).
Minimum share capital of US$134,000, to be fully paid-up during incorporation.
Liability of debts borne by shareholders to the extent of their capital shares.

Advantages:

Residency sponsorship for employees.
Qualification for favorable financing rates, especially in the industrial sector.
Business promotion throughout the Kingdom for public and private sectors.
Greater flexibility in shares transfer after a 2-year lock-up period.
Ease in obtaining capital through the issuance of shares and bonds.

Disadvantages:

Similar restrictions on business activities as with an LLC.
Limited control for foreign partners over company management.
Substantial initial capitalization required.
Inability to become a partner in a similar or overlapping business.

Branch Office

Advantages:

Easier formation process compared to other entities.
Promotion of business throughout the Kingdom for public and private sectors.

Disadvantages:

Business activities confined to those approved by SAGIA.
Possibility of double taxation due to the firm’s legal identity.
Financial liability rests solely on the owner of the branch.
Operations may face difficulties without a Saudi partner.

Understanding the nuances of each business structure is imperative for successful company registration in Saudi Arabia. Fionza Consultants provides expert guidance to help you navigate through these options and make informed decisions aligned with your business objectives. For the full list of business classifications and exceptions, please refer to Appendix 1 provided by the Saudi Embassy.

How to register company in Saudi Arabia?

Streamlined Saudi Arabia Company Registration Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

To facilitate a smooth Saudi Arabia company registration process, follow these steps recommended by Fionza Consultants:

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Business Structure

Prioritize understanding your business goals and unique needs. Fionza Consultants will provide insights into the optimal business entity, paid-up share capital, and corporate structure. For international clients, a Saudi Arabia Limited Liability Company (LLC) is often recommended due to its flexibility, allowing registration with only one shareholder.

Step 2: Application for Investment License

Initiate the process by applying for the Investment License through Fionza Consultants. This is essential for non-GCC foreign investors engaged in commercial activities not on the “Negative List.” Apply to the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), providing detailed information on the investment activity, financial data, etc. Upon approval, SAGIA issues a pre-approval certificate confirming eligibility for 100% foreign ownership.

Step 3: Reserve Company Name

Select a preferred business name, and Fionza Consultants will secure its reservation with the Unified Centre. This step precedes the submission of incorporation forms, articles of associations, and deed of establishment.

Step 4: Preparation of Documents Required for Incorporation

Assistance from Fionza Consultants ensures the preparation of necessary documents, including the Article of Incorporation, Business Plan, Company Constitution, and personal information of directors and shareholders. Submit these to the Ministry of Commerce and Investment, followed by notarization, newspaper publication, and obtaining the CR certificate.

Step 5: Registering with MERAS

Fionza Consultants aids in registering with the Saudi Business Center’s MERAS program. This includes obtaining a commercial registration (CR) and tax number. The complete registration application is then submitted to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI), leading to the issuance of CR approximately 6 weeks later.

Step 6: Issuance of SAGIA Foreign Business License

Assistance from Fionza Consultants continues with the application for the SAGIA foreign business license. Submit relevant documents for review and approval, including CR, tax registration, municipality license, and bank’s share capital deposit letter. SAGIA issues the foreign business investment license, granting your company the ability to sign contracts, issue invoices, and hire employees.

Step 7: Creation of Company Seal

Fionza Consultants guides the design and creation of the company seal, incorporating the Commercial Registration number and company name. This seal is essential for various purposes, including attesting signatories, registering with social insurance, and producing company invoices.

Step 8: Registration at the Chamber of Commerce

Proceed to register the company with the Chamber of Commerce. Within 30 days, submit the Certificate of Membership obtained from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI).

Step 9: Bank Account Opening

Upon completion of company registration, Fionza Consultants assists in opening a corporate bank account at a bank of your choice. Activate your account after the issuance of the Certificate of Registration, and unfreeze your initial capital deposit. Opening a capital account and obtaining a certificate of share capital deposit may be necessary.

Step 10: Staying Compliant

Fionza Consultants continues to ensure ongoing compliance with local government policies. This includes preparing financial statements, corporate tax returns, and bookkeeping services to keep your business in adherence to accounting and tax filing requirements. Stay confident in the knowledge that your business remains compliant with the local regulatory framework.

Follow these steps meticulously with the expert guidance of Fionza Consultants to smoothly navigate the Saudi Arabia company registration process and ensure sustained compliance with local regulations.

Advantages of doing business in Saudi Arabia

Unlocking Opportunities: Why Choose to Register a Company in Saudi Arabia

Discover the myriad advantages that make Saudi Arabia an enticing destination for foreign investors, as analyzed through the PESTLE framework by Fionza Consultants:

Political

The Kingdom’s focus on developing economic cities, industrial hubs, and healthcare facilities creates a wealth of business opportunities.
Saudi Arabia ranks among the top 10 global business climate improvers, fostering a conducive political environment for foreign investors.

Economic

Saudi Arabia boasts the Middle East’s largest and highly stable economy, featuring low debt and a robust budget surplus.
High GDP per capita, substantial imports totaling USD$134.7 billion, showcasing strong spending power and a high standard of living.
Recognized as one of the fastest business climate improvers globally according to the World Bank.

Social

Vision 2030 aims to increase foreign investment to 5.7% of the country’s GDP and elevate SME contribution to GDP from 20% to 35% by 2030.
Significant growth in foreign investment licenses, exemplified by a 70% increase in the issuance of licenses to foreign investors in Q1 2019.
Full foreign ownership and exemptions from customs duties and interest-free loans for foreign companies in the industrial market.

Technological

Saudi Arabia leads the Gulf region in IT industry, supported by government initiatives and plans for enhanced computer literacy.
The Special Economic Cloud Zone Law aims to attract foreign investment in Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning IT industry.

Legal

Streamlined foreign investment licensing, reducing processing time from 53 hours to less than four hours in 2018.
Vision 2030 implementation progress, featuring new procurement laws, enhanced legal infrastructure, a commercial arbitration center, and faster business registration procedures.
Introduction of a specialized entrepreneur license, enabling international entrepreneurs to establish fully foreign-owned start-ups within a day.
10-year tax concessions for underdeveloped provinces, fostering investment in regions like Ha’il, Jazan, Najran, Al-Baha, Al-Jouf, and the Northern territory.

Environmental (Renewable Energy)

Saudi Aramco’s commitment to increasing spending and introducing a renewable energy program to generate 95GW of renewable electricity by 2023.
Government support for renewable energy projects through loans under the Mutjadeda program.

Choose Saudi Arabia for your business endeavors and leverage these favorable factors. Fionza Consultants stands ready to guide you through the seamless process of company registration, ensuring you tap into the Kingdom’s thriving business landscape.

Disadvantages of doing business in Saudi Arabia

Navigating Challenges: Considerations Before Company Formation in Saudi Arabia

While Saudi Arabia offers numerous advantages, it’s crucial to be aware of potential challenges that might impact your business goals. Fionza Consultants utilizes the PESTLE analysis to shed light on why certain foreign investors might hesitate to register companies in Saudi Arabia:

Deferred Deal Execution

Presence of red tape and excessive government bureaucracy, influenced by corruption, can lead to delayed deal execution.
Saudi Arabia ranks 109th globally for the ease of starting a business, indicating challenges for foreign entrants.

High Costs

Minimum paid-up share capital for foreign companies starts at US$134,000 for service licenses and can go up to US$8,000,000 for real estate licenses.
Imposition of a 5% value-added tax (VAT).
High corporate income tax rates on foreign owners’ share of profits, set at 20%.

Government Restrictions

Restrictions on foreign investment, particularly in sectors like oil, fishing, printing & publishing, consulting, and recruitment & employment services.
Professional services businesses face restrictions, requiring a minimum of 25% Saudi ownership.

Understanding these challenges is vital for informed decision-making. If you’re considering company formation in Saudi Arabia, reach out to us. Our expert team at Fionza Consultants will respond within 24 hours, providing valuable insights on navigating the complexities of the Saudi business landscape.

Register Company in Saudi Arabia