Business Setup in Saudi Arabia
Company Formation with Business Link KSA
Business Setup in Saudi Arabia Company Formation with Business Link KSA
Business setup in Saudi Arabia is now attracting global attention, 100% foreign ownership,
the tax-friendly system, and Vision 2030 reforms reshaping the economy.
Business setup in Saudi Arabia is now attracting global attention, 100% foreign ownership,
the tax-friendly system, and Vision 2030 reforms reshaping the economy.
How to Start Your Business in Saudi Arabia
Starting a business in Saudi Arabia is now fast, clear, and rewarding. Whether you’re a startup or a global firm,
the process is more accessible than ever. Below is your complete guide.
Why Start a Business in Saudi Arabia?
- 100% foreign ownership allowed in most sectors
- Large and growing domestic market
- Strategic location between Asia, Europe, and Africa
- Vision 2030 supports private and foreign investment
- Strong demand across tech, tourism, logistics, and energy
Step-by-Step Company Formation in Saudi Arabia
Choose the Right
- LLC (most common for foreign investors)
- Branch of a foreign company (no local partner required)
- Joint Stock Company (for large or listed businesses)
- Sole establishment (for individual activities)
- Professional license (for service-based sectors)
Apply for MISA Investment License
- Submit documents: passport, business plan, company details
- Choose your activity from approved sectors
- License issued within 5–7 working days
Reserve Your Company Name
- Register through the Ministry of Commerce
- Choose a unique, regulation-compliant name
Get Your Commercial Registration (CR)
- Register through the Ministry of Commerce
- Choose a unique, regulation-compliant name
- Pay government fees
- CR allows you to legally operate your business in Saudi Arabia
Open a Saudi Corporate Bank Account
- Submit CR, MISA license, and owner documents
- Needed for capital deposit, salary, and operations
Register for ZATCA
(Tax and VAT)
- Mandatory if income exceeds SAR 375,000
- Corporate tax: 20% for foreign entities
- No personal income tax in KSA
Secure a Local Office Address
- Required for legal registration
- Options: physical office, business center, or approved virtual space
Register Employees and Visas
- Use Qiwa, GOSI, and Muqeem portals
- Meet Saudization quotas based on company size and activity
Activate on Government Platforms
- Absher, Qiwa, Mudad, GOSI for full company integration
Renew Licenses Yearly
- Stay compliant by renewing MISA and CR on time
- File ZATCA returns and meet labor law rules
Required Documents for Company Formation in Saudi Arabia
Passport copies of shareholders
Articles of Association (AoA)
Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Power of Attorney (if needed)
Local address proof
Capital deposit certificate
Payment receipt for government fees
Why Business Link Ksa?
- 40K+ satisfied customers who trusted our expertise.
- 4.8-star rating on Google, proving our reliability.
- Avoid delays and legal issues with Business Link KSA.
- We handle everything while you focus on growing your business in Saudi Arabia.
Legal Structures for Business in KSA
Structure | Best For | Capital Required | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
LLC | for consultants and LLC SMEs | SAR 100,000+ | Most flexible and popular |
Branch Office | International companies | None | Parent company holds liability |
Joint Stock Company | Public or large businesses | SAR 500,000+ | For capital-intensive sectors |
Sole Establishment | Individual activities | Varies | Restricted to certain categories |
Key Sectors for Business in KSA
- Oil and gas services
- Renewable energy
- Tourism and culture
- Information technology
- Healthcare and biotech
- Education and e-learning
- Food and beverage
- Logistics and warehousing
FAQ’s
Can a foreigner start a business in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. With a MISA license, foreigners can own 100% of a company in most sectors.
What is the cost of business setup in Saudi Arabia?
Costs vary by structure. An LLC typically requires SAR 100,000+ as capital. Fees apply for MISA, CR, and sector licenses.
How long does company formation take in Saudi Arabia?
On average, business setup takes 2–4 weeks after document submission and MISA approval.
Do I need a Saudi partner to start a company?
No. Most sectors allow 100% foreign ownership. Only restricted industries may require a local partner.
What taxes apply to companies in Saudi Arabia?
Corporate tax is 20% for foreign-owned companies. VAT applies if revenue exceeds SAR 375,000. No personal income tax.
Benefits of Investment in KSA
LLC Company Formation in Saudi Arabia
The shareholders of an LLC are liable for the debts of the establishment only to the magnitude of their respective interests in the shares of the LLC.
LLC is the most common form for entering joint ventures with Saudi partners; however, a Saudi partner is not required since there are no legal limitations on the percentage of foreign ownership.
Commercial Agency in KSA
Foreign investors can operate without establishing a trading company in KSA by appointing a commercial agent in KSA to deal with their trading operations and manage the distribution of their products within the defined jurisdiction.
Business Link can offer a completely owned KSA company to assist foreign companies in entering the KSA market.
We act as your on-the-ground partner to assist with the registration of your products and provide administrative support.
Business Visa in KSA
This Saudi visa will allow you to make short terms visits for business meetings, discussions and training events. You are able to obtain either a 3-month single entry Saudi visa or a 6-month multiple entry Saudi visa.
You are entitled to up to a maximum of a 30-day stay during each visit. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will decide whether a single or multiple entry visa will be issued therein.
PRO Service in KSA
Trademark Registration & Copyright
Registration Cancellation / Companies Liquidation
Saudi Business Visa / Invitation Letter
Investor/Partner Visa Processing
Issuance of Government Approvals
Establishment of the Memorandum of Association
Public Notary services
VIP Medical Chaperoned Services
Family Visa Sponsorship
Open A Commercial Bank Account
Configure P.O Box Address
Legal Certificate of Corporate Documents in Court
Visa Renewal and Cancellation Services
No Objection Certificate from Government Ministries
Legal Translation Facilities
THE KSA BUSINESS SETUP GUIDE 2024
Unlock your business’s potential and tap into the thriving and ever-expanding.