Company Registration in Saudi Arabia: Full Process Explained

Company Registration in Saudi Arabia  is a crucial step for entrepreneurs and foreign investors aiming to enter one of the Middle East’s most promising and business-friendly economies. With ongoing reforms under Vision 2030, the Kingdom has simplified and digitalized the registration process, making it easier than ever to establish a legal business presence.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the full registration journey, including the specific requirements for foreign companies, government approvals, timelines, and expert support available for a smooth launch.

Company Registration in Saudi Arabia

If you’re looking to launch a business in the Kingdom, understanding the company registration process in Saudi Arabia​ is essential. You have two official methods for company registration in Saudi Arabia  choose from, depending on whether you prefer an online experience or face-to-face support:

Read also: Trademark Registration In Saudi Arabia: Guide For Businesses

Method 1: Online Registration via the Ministry of Commerce Website

You can easily start your company registration in Saudi Arabia process through the official online platform of the Ministry of Commerce by following these steps:

1. Visit the official website of the Ministry of Commerce.
2. From the homepage, select “E-Services,” then go to “Company Services.”
3. Hover over “Company Formation” and click on “Access the Service.”
4. You will be directed to an online form—fill in the required information accurately.
5. Once all steps are completed, you can directly print your Commercial or Professional Registration from the website.

Method 2: In-Person Registration at a Ministry Office

If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can visit the nearest Ministry of Commerce branch, where a staff member will help guide you through the company registration process step by step.
 Official working hours are Sunday to Thursday, from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM, with the offices closed on Fridays and Saturdays.

Check out:  Best 8 Steps of Trademark Registration in Saudi Arabia​

Foreign Company Registration in Saudi Arabia​

To allow foreign companies to operate legally within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—whether under full foreign ownership or in partnership with local investors—a series of legal and administrative procedures must be followed to properly establish the legal entity. These procedures include:

1. Obtaining an Investment License from the Ministry of Investment

The first step in the establishment journey of a company registration in Saudi Arabia for foreigners is applying for an investment license. This requires submitting the following key documents:

• A certified copy of the commercial registration of the parent company, authenticated by the Saudi embassy in the country of origin.
• The audited financial statements of the parent company for the most recent fiscal year, also certified by the Saudi embassy.

2. Signing the Articles of Association or Submitting a Branch Opening Resolution

• For newly formed companies, a notarized Articles of Association must be signed before the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• For foreign company branches, it is sufficient to submit an official resolution from the parent company approving the establishment of a branch in Saudi Arabia—there is no need to notarize a new Articles of Association locally.

3. Issuing the Commercial Registration and Choosing a Trade Name

Once the investment license is obtained and the Articles of Association or resolution is submitted, the next step is to issue the Commercial registration certificate, which officially confirms the legal presence of the company in the Kingdom.

A crucial part of this process is selecting and reserving a trade name. This name can be reserved online to protect it for 60 days, through one of the following platforms:

• The Ministry of Commerce website via the “Trade Name Reservation” service.
• The Saudi Business Center platform via the same service.

The trade name must comply with Saudi naming regulations and must not conflict with existing names or include inappropriate terms. After reserving the name and completing the electronic application, the following documents must be submitted to obtain the certificate:

• The commercial registration of the parent company.
• A resolution from the partners approving the opening of a branch (if applicable).
• A notarized Articles of Association (for newly formed companies).
• An official decision appointing the General Manager.
• Identity documents for all shareholders and the appointed General Manager.
• This step also includes assigning the CR Number Saudi Arabia, which is essential for all future business and legal transactions in the Kingdom.

4. Opening Files with Relevant Government Authorities

After the CR is issued, the company must register with several key government entities, including:

• Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA): For tax and customs registration.
• Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD): To register the business in the labor system.
• General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI): To enroll employees in the mandatory social insurance system.

5. Issuing the General Manager’s Visa

The final step is to obtain a work visa for the appointed General Manager. This requires submitting:

• An official appointment decision.
• Valid identification documents for the General Manager, in compliance with regulatory requirements.

Learn about: Commercial Registration Saudi Arabia: Key to Legal Business

Conclusion

Company Registration in Saudi Arabia requires careful adherence to local regulations, making it essential for foreign investors to seek legal counsel to ensure full compliance and avoid potential obstacles during the formation process.
Etqan Law Firm offers end-to-end legal support for international investors from obtaining the investment license to completing the full company registration ensuring a smooth, efficient, and compliant entry into the Saudi market.

The Etqan Al Mutamayza Law Firm is ready to provide the essential support you need. You can reach their team at the following mobile numbers: +96656113776, +966541110440, +966504315333.

Additionally, feel free to visit our branches located at:

• Jeddah: Al-Aziziyah District, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia)
• Riyadh: King Abdulaziz Street, across from the Kingdom Tower
• Dammam: Al-Ashri’a Street, Al-Badeea, Dammam 32415.

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