The first step in starting a company in Saudi Arabia is obtaining the required business permissions from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment (MISA). At Gatestone Group, we streamline this process by facilitating the acquisition of the requisite business license while ensuring adherence to all legal obligations. Our team possesses a cumulative experience exceeding ten years, which enables us to offer expert guidance and insights, thereby ensuring that you remain competitive in the demanding Saudi market.
Our business licensing solutions are tailored to accommodate enterprises of various sizes and types. Whether pertaining to permits for commercial, industrial, or professional purposes, we encompass a broad spectrum of industries and guarantee a prompt and efficient processing experience. Consult our professional consultation team to get started with processing your business license.
To establish a business in Saudi Arabia, obtaining a permit is crucial since it is a legal necessity for any commercial endeavor. This stipulation applies to startups, branch offices, and various other business forms, ensuring that your operations are recognised and protected under Saudi law. Additionally, you may also:
Legally tap into Saudi Arabia's thriving market- Gain complete access to your business without the requirement of a local partner
- Hire staff legally
- Lease a physical office
- Advantageous geographical location
Types of Licenses
Industrial License
Establish a manufacturing enterprise and undertake associated activities. Furthermore, secure full ownership of the business. The requirements for this permit are as follows:
- The company ought to have been operating for more than a year outside of Saudi Arabia.
- A minimum share capital of SAR 50,000.
- A certified copy of the shareholding partner's commercial registration from the Saudi Embassy.
- The Saudi Embassy has authenticated the financial statements of a foreign company from the previous year.
Real Estate License
Suitable for international real estate development firms with land and construction expenses exceeding 30 million SAR, where the investment is based outside the urban areas of Mecca and Medina. The requirements for this permit are as follows:
- A certified copy of the shareholding partner's commercial registration from the Saudi Embassy.
- The Saudi Embassy has authenticated the financial statements of a foreign company from the previous year.
Agricultural License
Saudi Arabia allows foreign businesses to participate in agricultural and animal production-related economic ventures. Foreign companies are able to take full ownership, which supports the growth and progress of the kingdom’s food production industry. The requirements for this permit are as follows:
- The company ought to have been operating for more than a year outside of Saudi Arabia.
- A minimum investment of SAR 25,000.
- A certified copy of the shareholding partner's commercial registration from the Saudi Embassy.
- The Saudi Embassy has authenticated the financial statements of a foreign company from the previous year.
Service License
Foreign entrepreneurs aiming to grow their ventures in sectors like restaurants, IT, marketing, healthcare, and beyond can secure full ownership to diversify their operations in the region. The requirements for this permit are as follows:
- The company ought to have been operating for more than a year outside of Saudi Arabia.
- A minimum investment of SAR 50,000.
- A certified copy of the shareholding partner's commercial registration from the Saudi Embassy.
- The Saudi Embassy has authenticated the financial statements of a foreign company from the previous year.
Professional License
Ideal for enterprises offering professional services like law, consulting, taxation, and similar fields. This permit also grants you full ownership rights. The requirements for this permit are as follows:
- The organisation has branches in four countries, indicating an international presence.
- Each branch must have a share capital of 10 million SAR to ensure compliance and operational efficiency. This establishes a stable financial foundation for responsible business activities.
- Possess more than seven years of experience in the marketplace.
Entrepreneurial License
Tailored for startups, the permit provides numerous benefits, such as streamlined regulations, reduced expenses, and support programs from the government. This allows businesses to expand their presence in the market. The requirements for this permit are as follows:
- The business owner should either have VC sponsorship, a patented idea, or a letter of support from a government agency like MISA, PIF, CODE, KAUST, TDF, etc.
- A letter of recommendation from an incubator for startups
Mining License
Ideal for entrepreneurs aiming to enter the mining sector in Saudi Arabia. It provides full ownership of the enterprise. The requirements for this permit are as follows:
- The company ought to have been operating for more than a year outside of Saudi Arabia.
- A minimum investment of SAR 25,000.
- A certified copy of the shareholding partner's commercial registration from the Saudi Embassy.
- The Saudi Embassy has authenticated the financial statements of a foreign company from the previous year.
Trading License
Use this permit to export and import goods in Saudi Arabia. It is suitable for businesses looking to partner with a Saudi shareholder or seeking full ownership. However, the requirements for each option will vary.
Partnership requirements:
- A SAR 26,666,666M capital investment was made in the first year.
- Foreign investors cannot own shares worth less than SAR 20 million.
Full ownership requirements:
- The organisation has branches in three countries outside KSA, indicating an international presence.
- An initial capital investment of no less than SAR 30 million in the first year.
- An investment of SAR 170 million will be made in the Saudi company over the next five years.
- Legally tap into Saudi Arabia's thriving market
- Certified Commercial Registration
- Financial statements
- Passport copies, office lease, etc.
- Importance of Arabic translations and legal attestation
01.
Consult with our team to help us identify the business and provide a suitable license for your company
02.
Prepare the required documents for submission
03.
Apply for the permit through MISA
04.
Receive authentication and approvals from the Ministry
05.
Get started with your business operations
Why Choose Us?
Get expert business advisory
Documentation and legal support
Post-license support
Licensing application submission
FAQs
1. Do foreign business owners get full ownership?
Yes, this applies to certain types of licenses. Consult our professionals for further information.
2. How long does the entire process take?
This depends on the type of business you seek to operate. Ideally, obtaining a permit takes a couple of weeks.
3. Is it mandatory to have a local partner?
No, certain licenses allow complete ownership.
Contact Us
Contact Us
- Office 1416, The Binary by Omniyat Marasi Drive Street, Business Bay, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- +971 4 450 1023
- +971 52 410 0849
- +44 7385 807 875
- +971 52 410 0849
- info@gatestonegroup.com
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