Company Registration in Saudi Arabia from India

Company registration in Saudi Arabia refers to the legal process of establishing a business entity within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This involves obtaining the necessary approvals and licenses from the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA), registering with the Ministry of Commerce, and fulfilling regulatory requirements such as obtaining a commercial registration (CR), tax registration, and municipality license.

Whether you're a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, the registration process ensures that your company operates legally under Saudi laws and is eligible to engage in commercial, industrial, or service-related activities within the country.

Saudi Arabia is becoming a prime destination for Indian businesses, driven by strong bilateral ties, growing trade, and the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

1. The Power of Saudi Vision 2030

Saudi Vision 2030 is a plan to reduce Saudi Arabia’s dependence on oil and grow other sectors like tourism, technology, and renewable energy. It aims to build a vibrant society, a strong economy, and an efficient government. Key goals include more jobs, better digital services, increased tourism, women’s empowerment, higher homeownership, and expanded aviation and clean energy use.

2. A Strategic Gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and Europe

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is a major project aimed at improving trade and transport between India, the Middle East, and Europe. It will connect these regions through new sea and rail routes to reduce travel time and costs. IMEC supports economic growth by making trade and investment easier, while also playing an important role in global politics by strengthening ties between countries. Big investments will go into building ports, railways, and roads.

For example: India is developing the Vadhavan Port, and the corridor will also use existing and planned transport networks in the Middle East and Europe to create a smooth trade route.

3. 100% Foreign Ownership and a Pro-Business Environment

100% foreign ownership allows international investors to fully control their businesses, make independent decisions, and take home all profits without needing local partners, making it highly attractive for foreign direct investment (FDI).

This is supported by a pro-business environment that offers stable policies, low taxes, easy regulations, strong infrastructure, skilled talent, and government support. Together, these benefits reduce risk and increase potential profits, making Saudi Arabia, alongside established hubs like the UAE and Singapore, an increasingly appealing destination for global investors.

4. Giga-Projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Project Explained

NEOM and The Red Sea Project are massive development projects designed to transform the nation's economy and global image. NEOM is planned as a futuristic smart city fueled by renewable energy, whereas The Red Sea Project is a high-end tourism destination prioritizing sustainability.

NEOM

• Vision: A futuristic, smart city spanning 26,500 square kilometers, striving to be a global nexus for innovation, technology, and sustainable living.
• Key Features: Powered entirely by renewable energy, NEOM will encompass regions such as Oxagon (a floating industrial complex), Trojena (a year-round mountain resort), and a linear city named THE LINE.
• Goals: To attract high-tech industries, talented individuals, and to propel economic diversification.

The Red Sea Project

• Vision: A luxury tourism destination centered on sustainability, aiming to attract 150 million visitors annually by 2030.
• Key Features: It comprises a network of islands, resorts, marinas, and residential properties situated along the Red Sea coast.
• Goals: To position Saudi Arabia as a premier tourist destination and generate new employment opportunities within the tourism sector.

Commonalities

• Both are financed and spearheaded by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, forming part of Saudi Vision 2030.
• Both endeavor to diversify Saudi Arabia's economy away from oil and champion sustainable development.
• Both are anticipated to profoundly impact the real estate and tourism sectors, forging new prospects for both local and international investors.

Establishing a company in Saudi Arabia as an Indian national has become significantly more streamlined due to recent reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment under Vision 2030.

The Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA), formerly SAGIA, is the primary authority facilitating this process.

General Eligibility Criteria (Age, Legal Standing)

1. Legal Age: Individuals must generally be at least 18 years old to be a founder or shareholder of a company in Saudi Arabia. If a partner is a minor, a guardianship deed must be submitted.
2. Legal Standing: All founders and shareholders must have a clean legal record with no prior violations or offenses related to business activities. If one of the partners is a legal entity (e.g., another company), its commercial registration must be active and in good standing.
3. Government Employees: Partners generally cannot be government employees.
4. Visa/Residency: Foreigners looking to establish an LLC, JSC, or branch office must have a valid business visa or residency permit (Iqama). A General Manager (GM) appointed for the company will typically require an Iqama to finalize certain processes like opening a bank account.

Business Activity Specific Requirements

Different business activities in Saudi Arabia have unique rules, licenses, and approvals that must be followed for legal operation.

1. MISA License: A MISA Investment License is mandatory for almost all foreign-owned businesses to legally operate in Saudi Arabia. The type of MISA license depends on your specific business activity (e.g., Service, Industrial, Real Estate, Agricultural, Trade, Professional, Mining, Entrepreneurial).
2. Sector Restrictions/Conditions: While 100% foreign ownership is now permitted in most sectors (including IT, healthcare, education, logistics, tourism, manufacturing, and renewable energy), some specific sectors may still have restrictions, require a Saudi partner with a minority stake, or impose specific conditions related to technical expertise and financial stability.
3. Industry-Specific Approvals:

• • Technology and Telecommunications: May require approval from the Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC).
  • Construction and Real Estate: Companies must demonstrate a history of successful projects.
  • Professional Services (e.g., Law, Accounting, Engineering, Consultancy): If the company is "professional," partners must have valid professional licenses. In some mixed companies, at least 25% ownership by licensed Saudi partners may be required, and the total percentage of licensed partners (foreign and Saudi) must be at least 70%.
  • Financial Activities: Activities requiring a license from the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) will need prior approval.

4. Regional Headquarters (RHQ) Program: From 2024, foreign companies bidding for government contracts must have a Regional Headquarters in Saudi Arabia (with some exceptions, such as for companies in Special Economic Zones). This requires demonstrating a physical presence and undertaking specific strategic activities within the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia offers various business structures to suit different investment needs, each with specific rules on ownership, capital, and operations for both local and foreign investors.

1. Limited Liability Company (LLC)

The Limited Liability Company (LLC) is currently the most popular and flexible business structure for foreign investors, including Indian nationals, in Saudi Arabia.

• 100% Foreign Ownership: In most sectors, foreign investors can now own 100% of an LLC, eliminating the previous requirement for a Saudi partner.
• Limited Liability: Shareholders' liability is limited to the amount of their capital contribution to the company, protecting personal assets.
• Flexibility: It offers a flexible ownership and management structure.
• Minimum Capital: While the new Companies Law removed the statutory minimum capital for LLCs, the Ministry of Investment (MISA) still sets practical minimums based on your business activity.
  • For many standard service or industrial activities, a common MISA-imposed minimum capital is SAR 500,000.
  • For wholesale and retail trading companies seeking 100% foreign ownership, a significantly higher minimum capital of SAR 30 million is typically required. This also comes with commitments to operate in at least three regional or global markets and to invest SAR 200 million over five years.
  • For industrial ventures, the requirement might be SAR 500,000 or more, depending on the scale and nature of the project.
  • For entrepreneurial ventures and startups, MISA may offer specific "Entrepreneurial Licenses" which often have lower (or even no explicit stated) capital requirements, focusing more on the innovation and growth potential.
• Single-Person LLC: It is possible to establish an LLC with a single shareholder.
• No Upfront Capital Deposit (Generally): For many LLCs, the capital does not need to be deposited into a local bank account at the initial registration stage. However, a bank certificate verifying the initial capital deposit will be needed later when opening a corporate bank account.

2. Joint Stock Company (JSC) and Simplified Joint Stock Company (SJSC)

While LLCs are common, Saudi Arabia also offers more complex structures like Joint Stock Companies (JSCs) for larger ventures and specific needs. The new Companies Law introduced greater flexibility, including the Simplified Joint Stock Company (SJSC).

• Capital Division: Capital is divided into tradable shares, with shareholders' liability limited to their share value.
• Minimum Capital:
  • For a private (closed) Joint Stock Company (JSC), the minimum capital is generally SAR 500,000.
  • The Simplified Joint Stock Company (SJSC), often used for startups and single-shareholder entities, generally has no statutory minimum capital requirement under the new Companies Law, though MISA might impose activity-specific minimums for foreign investors. If formed as a one-person JSC, the capital might need to exceed SAR 5 million if the shareholder is not a governmental entity.
  • For publicly listed JSCs or those with more than 100 shareholders, the requirements are substantially more stringent and regulated by the Capital Market Authority (CMA), with significantly higher capital requirements (e.g., SAR 300 million for certain activities like property management or if 100% foreign-owned and engaged in commercial activities, along with additional investment commitments).
• Capital Payment: At least 25% of the capital must typically be paid upfront for a JSC.
• Board of Directors: Requires a Board of Directors, making governance more formal.

3. Branch Office of a Foreign Company

A branch office allows an Indian company to establish a direct presence in Saudi Arabia and operate under the identity and activities of its parent company.

• Extension of Parent Company: A branch is not a separate legal entity but an extension of the parent company, meaning the parent company is fully liable for the branch's obligations.
• 100% Foreign Ownership: Branches typically allow full foreign ownership.
• Scope of Activities: Generally limited to the licensed activities of the parent company, often focused on specific projects, contracts, or services rather than broad general trading.
• Minimum Capital: For a standard Permanent Branch, the minimum capital requirement is typically SAR 500,000. This amount generally needs to be deposited into a local bank account after obtaining the MISA license and before receiving the Commercial Registration.
• Financial Stability Proof: The Indian parent company must demonstrate financial solvency by providing attested commercial registration and audited financial statements for previous years.
• Management: Requires a General Manager to be appointed, who will typically need a Saudi residency permit (Iqama).

4. Technical and Scientific Services Office (TSO)

A TSO is a specialized type of non-commercial office primarily used by foreign companies that distribute their products through local Saudi agents or distributors.

• Non-Commercial Activity: TSOs are strictly prohibited from engaging in any direct commercial activities, sales, or investments in Saudi Arabia. They cannot charge fees for services rendered to Saudi entities or individuals.
• Support & Liaison Role: Their primary purpose is to provide scientific, technical, and marketing information, assistance, and support to local agents, distributors, and consumers of the foreign company's products. They can conduct market research and prepare reports for the head office.
• No Minimum Capital: Generally, there is no specific minimum capital requirement for establishing a TSO, making it a cost-effective option for a limited presence.
• MISA License Required: A specific MISA license for a scientific and technical office is mandatory.
• Annual Reporting: TSOs are required to submit an annual summary of their activities to MISA.

5. Other Structures

Saudi Arabia also accommodates other specialized structures:

• Joint Ventures (JVs): Often formed as LLCs, these involve two or more parties (local and/or foreign) collaborating on a specific project or business.
• Professional Companies: Specific regulated professions (e.g., legal, accounting, engineering, consultancy) may require partners to hold valid professional licenses and, in some cases, a minimum percentage of Saudi ownership or licensed Saudi partners (e.g., at least 25% ownership by licensed Saudi partners may be required in mixed companies, with the total percentage of licensed partners at least 70%).

To establish a business in Saudi Arabia, Indian nationals typically require an Investment License from the Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia (MISA), a Commercial Registration (CR) certificate from the Ministry of Commerce (MOC), and mandatory registration with the Chamber of Commerce.

• MISA Investment License: This serves as the foundational step for any foreign investor. The application necessitates a detailed business plan, information regarding the company's structure, and financial data.
• Commercial Registration (CR): Upon securing the MISA license, the business must register with the Ministry of Commerce to procure a CR certificate, thereby officially recognizing the company within Saudi Arabia's legal framework.
• Chamber of Commerce Registration: Registration with the Chamber of Commerce is essential to finalize the legal entity setup.
• Business Plan: A business plan outlining the business's goals and activities is crucial.
• Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA): These documents precisely define the company's legal structure, ownership, and management.
• Company Name Declaration: Securing and formally declaring the company's name constitutes an essential step.
• Shareholder and Director Information: Proof of identity, addresses, and passport copies for all shareholders and directors are required.
• Bank Account: Opening a corporate bank account within Saudi Arabia is required.
• Local Requirements: Compliance with tax regulations (including ZATCA registration), visa regulations, and other pertinent local rules is mandatory.
• Residency Permit (Iqama): Foreign business owners and employees will be required to obtain an Iqama (residency permit).
• National Address Registration: Registering the company's national address is also a compulsory requirement.

For Indian applicants looking to establish a company in Saudi Arabia, a comprehensive set of documents is required for various stages of the registration process, particularly for the MISA (Ministry of Investment, Saudi Arabia) license.

1. Required Personal Documents for Indian Directors and Shareholders

For each Indian director and shareholder involved in the Saudi Arabian entity, the following personal documents are typically required:

• Passport Copies: Clear, color copies of the passports of all individual directors and shareholders. The passport should have sufficient validity (usually at least six months beyond the expected duration of stay/visa).
• National Identity Proof: A copy of the Indian national identity proof (e.g., Aadhar Card, PAN Card).
• Proof of Address: Recent utility bills (electricity, water, gas) or bank statements (usually not older than 3-6 months) to verify the residential address of directors and shareholders.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume: For key personnel, especially the proposed General Manager, detailing their professional experience and qualifications.
• Power of Attorney (POA): If the application is being handled by a third-party agent or a designated representative, a specific POA, duly attested, will be required, authorizing them to act on behalf of the directors/shareholders.

2. Attested Corporate Documents from the Indian Parent Company

If the Saudi Arabian entity is a subsidiary or branch of an existing Indian company, several corporate documents from the parent company must be prepared and attested.

• Commercial Registration (CR) / Certificate of Incorporation: A certified copy of the Indian company's Commercial Registration or Certificate of Incorporation.
• Memorandum of Association (MoA) & Articles of Association (AoA): Certified copies of these constitutional documents, outlining the company's objectives, rules, and structure.
• Board Resolution: A formal resolution from the Board of Directors of the Indian parent company, explicitly approving:

• • The establishment of a new entity (e.g., LLC, Branch Office) in Saudi Arabia.
  • The appointment of the General Manager for the Saudi entity.
  • The capital contribution to the Saudi entity (if applicable).
  • Authorization for specific individuals to sign documents on behalf of the parent company for the Saudi registration.

• Shareholding Structure: A document detailing the current shareholding structure of the Indian parent company.
• Company Profile: An overview of the parent company, including its history, activities, management, and achievements.

3. The Importance of a Detailed and Strategic Business Plan for MISA

A well-structured and strategic business plan is paramount for obtaining the MISA Foreign Investment License. It's not just a formality; it's a tool for MISA to assess the viability and alignment of your proposed venture with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

• Clarity of Vision: Articulates the business idea, goals, and long-term vision.
• Market Analysis: Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the Saudi market, target customers, competition, and growth opportunities.
• Feasibility Study: Provides evidence of the project's technical, operational, and financial viability.
• Economic Contribution: Highlights how the business will contribute to the Saudi economy (e.g., job creation for Saudi nationals, technology transfer, diversification of non-oil revenues, value addition to local industries). This is particularly important for MISA's evaluation of Vision 2030 objectives.
• Investment Details: Clearly outlines the total investment amount, funding sources, and how the capital will be utilized.
• Operational Strategy: Describes the operational model, management structure, and key personnel.
• Alignment with Vision 2030: Emphasizes how the business activity supports Saudi Arabia's national strategic goals, such as digitalization, renewable energy, tourism development, or industrial localization.

4. Financial Statements and Board Resolutions

Financial solvency and official corporate approvals are critical for MISA and subsequent registrations.

Audited Financial Statements:

• For the Indian parent company (if applicable): Audited financial statements, usually for the past one to three fiscal years, demonstrating the company's financial stability, profitability, and solvency. These statements must be attested as per the process mentioned above.
• For new entities (LLCs): While initial capital may not always need to be deposited upfront, a commitment to meet minimum capital requirements (which vary significantly by business type) and proof of financial capability may be required.

Board Resolutions: Beyond the resolution for company establishment (mentioned above), other specific board resolutions might be required for:

• Bank Account Opening: Authorizing specific individuals to open and operate the Saudi corporate bank account.
• Appointment of Authorized Signatories: Designating individuals who can sign legal documents and contracts on behalf of the Saudi entity.
• Address Registration: Approving the registered office address in Saudi Arabia.

Registering a company in Saudi Arabia for Indian nationals involves several key steps, primarily managed through the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA) and the Ministry of Commerce.

Step 1: Obtaining the MISA Foreign Investment License

This is the foundational step for any foreign investor. The MISA license grants legal permission to invest and operate in Saudi Arabia.

• Process: Apply via the Invest Saudi portal.
• Key Documents: Requires a detailed company profile, business plan, audited financial statements (usually for the last fiscal year), and constitutional documents (e.g., Commercial Registration, Articles of Association, Board Resolution from the parent company). Passport copies of shareholders/directors are also needed.
• Attestation: All foreign documents must be attested by the Saudi Embassy in India and translated into Arabic.
• Review & Approval: MISA reviews the application, potentially requesting additional information. Approval typically takes 5-10 business days if all documents are in order.

Step 2: Preparing and Attesting Your Company's Legal Documents in India

Before applying for the MISA license and for subsequent steps, your Indian company's legal documents must be properly authenticated.

• Process: This involves a multi-stage attestation process in India:
  • Regional Level: Attestation from the relevant Chamber of Commerce (for commercial documents).
  • MEA Attestation: Legalization by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India.
  • Saudi Embassy Attestation: Final legalization by the Royal Saudi Embassy in India.
• Translation: All documents must be translated into Arabic by a certified translator, and often this translation also needs attestation.
• Key Documents: Typically includes Commercial Registration, Articles of Association/Memorandum of Association, Board Resolutions, and audited financial statements of the Indian parent company.

Step 3: Drafting the Articles of Association (AOA)

The AOA is a crucial legal document that outlines the company's internal regulations, structure, objectives, shareholder rights, and management framework in Saudi Arabia.

• Content: It details the company name, objectives, head office location, capital structure, share transfer provisions, management structure, shareholder meeting procedures, and financial affairs.
• Language: Must be drafted in Arabic.
• Notarization: The AOA must be notarized by a public notary in Saudi Arabia. This step often occurs after MISA license approval and commercial name reservation.

Step 4: Obtaining Your Commercial Registration (CR) from the Ministry of Commerce

The CR is the official certificate of incorporation, legally recognizing your company's existence in Saudi Arabia.

• Process: After MISA license approval and AOA notarization, you apply to the Ministry of Commerce (MoC).
• Key Requirements:

• • Trade Name Reservation: A unique company name must be reserved through the MoC portal before applying for the CR.
  • Documents: MISA license, notarized AOA, proof of identity for the appointed General Manager (GM), and relevant fees.

• Issuance: Upon approval, the MoC issues the CR certificate.

Step 5: Registering Your Company with the Chamber of Commerce

Membership with the local Chamber of Commerce (CoC) is mandatory for all officially registered businesses in Saudi Arabia.

• Purpose: The CoC certificate is essential for various government procedures, signing contracts, customs clearance, and accessing other business services.
• Process: Once your CR is issued, you must enroll with the CoC in the region where your company is headquartered.
• Requirements: Active MISA License, valid CR, copy of the AOA, valid passport and Saudi SIM card for the General Manager. The GM typically needs to visit the Chamber of Commerce in person to finalize registration and formalize their authority.

Step 6: Opening a Local Bank Account and Capital Deposit

A corporate bank account is essential for all financial transactions and managing company finances in Saudi Arabia.

• Process: Choose a suitable Saudi bank (e.g., Al Rajhi, SNB, Riyad Bank) and submit an application.
• Key Documents: CR certificate, MISA license, AOA, company tax ID (TIN), Chamber of Commerce certificate, Board Resolution authorizing the account opening, identity documents of owners/signatories (including Iqama for GM), and proof of company address.

Setting up a company in Saudi Arabia involves various initial and annual costs, including licensing, registration, legal, and operational expenses.

MISA License Fees & Government Charges

To start a business as a foreign investor in Saudi Arabia, obtaining an MISA (Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia) license is mandatory.

Below are the core government charges and licensing fees involved.

Commercial Registration & Chamber of Commerce Fees

Once licensed, every business must register commercially and become a member of the Chamber of Commerce. These are standard business setup fees.

Professional Fees for Consultancy & Legal Services

Starting a company in Saudi Arabia involves several legal and business advisory services. Below are the estimated professional fees.

Costs for Office Rental & Other Setup Expenses

Every registered company must establish a physical presence in Saudi Arabia. Below are typical costs related to office rental, capital, and other setup requirements.

Annual Renewal & Compliance Costs

To keep your business compliant and operational in Saudi Arabia, certain annual renewal, tax, and statutory expenses must be fulfilled.

For businesses operating in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), post-registration obligations are as crucial as the initial setup. Compliance with tax, labor, and corporate governance regulations is essential to avoid penalties and ensure sustainable operations.

1. Compliance with MISA Regulations

Foreign companies must maintain ongoing compliance with the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA) even after obtaining the initial license.

i) MISA License Maintenance: The MISA license must be renewed annually, subject to submission of updated financials, operational data, and proof of ongoing activity. Non-renewal may lead to license suspension or cancellation.

ii) Ongoing Corporate Compliance:

• Commercial Registration (CR): Must be renewed before expiry; changes in shareholding or structure must be updated with the Ministry of Commerce.
• Tax Filings (ZATCA): Timely filing of corporate tax, VAT returns, and withholding tax is mandatory. Annual audited financial statements must also be submitted.
• HR & Labor Compliance: Regular updates on employee status must be filed with HRSD and GOSI. Companies must meet Saudization targets and maintain valid employment contracts.
• Address & Office Maintenance: A valid physical office must be maintained and updated in the National Address System.
• Sector-Specific Reporting: Businesses must comply with any industry-specific reporting or renewal norms as mandated by relevant authorities.

iii) Ongoing Compliance: Companies must ensure annual MISA license renewals, fulfill tax obligations, meet Saudization quotas, and stay updated with all regulatory changes.

2. Saudi Corporate Tax and VAT System

Saudi Arabia's tax system is primarily overseen by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA).

Corporate Income Tax (CIT)

Foreign-owned companies or branches are required to pay income tax on profits earned in Saudi Arabia.

• Applicability: CIT is levied on the net profits of companies wholly or partially owned by non-Saudis. If a company has mixed ownership (Saudi and foreign), only the portion of profits attributable to the foreign ownership is subject to CIT. Foreign entities operating in the Kingdom, including branches of foreign companies, also pay CIT. Companies involved in the oil and gas sector may be subject to higher tax rates (50% to 85%).
• Rate: The standard corporate income tax rate is a flat 20% of net adjusted profits.
• Fiscal Year: The tax year typically follows the Gregorian calendar year (January 1 to December 31).
• Filing and Payment: Tax returns must be filed with ZATCA within 120 days after the fiscal year ends. If the previous year's tax liability exceeded SAR 500,000, companies are required to make three equal advance payments during the sixth, ninth, and twelfth months of the tax year.

Documentation: To stay compliant with Saudi tax laws, companies must maintain and submit specific documents during the tax filing process.

• Audited financial statements
• Company commercial registration (CR)
• Tax Identification Number (TIN)
• Income and expense records
• Ownership structure details are typically required for filing.

Value Added Tax (VAT):

VAT is charged on most goods and services, including imports, with some exceptions.

• Applicability: VAT is an indirect tax applied to most goods and services, including imports. Businesses with annual taxable supplies exceeding SAR 375,000 (approx. INR 8,553,750) are mandatorily required to register for VAT.
• Rate: The standard VAT rate in Saudi Arabia is 15%.
• Zero-rated supplies (0% VAT): Exports of goods and services outside the GCC, international transport services, and certain qualifying medicines and medical goods.
• Exempt supplies (no VAT): Issuance or transfer of money/securities, credit, certain banking operations, financial instruments, Shari'ah-compliant Islamic finance products, loans, life insurance, and residential real estate leases (excluding short-term rentals).
• Filing: VAT-registered businesses must submit VAT returns either quarterly or monthly, depending on their size and revenue. Returns are typically due by the last day of the month following the end of the reporting period.
• Excise Tax: Imposed on specific goods like soft drinks (50%), energy drinks (100%), and tobacco products (100%). Businesses dealing in these goods must submit excise tax on a bimonthly basis.

Withholding Tax (WHT): This applies to payments made to non-resident entities for services rendered in KSA, with rates typically ranging from 5% to 20%, depending on the nature of the service and applicable double taxation agreements.

3. Zakat Obligations for Saudi Partners

• Nature: Zakat is an Islamic religious obligation on wealth, not a conventional tax.
• Applicability: It applies to the portion of a company's profits or assets owned by Saudi nationals and GCC nationals (who are considered Saudi citizens for tax purposes) residing in Saudi Arabia. Foreign-owned companies are not subject to Zakat but rather Corporate Income Tax.
• Rate: Zakat is calculated at a rate of 2.5% on the company's "Zakat base," which is essentially the net worth of the business as calculated for Zakat purposes (including cash, receivables, inventory, investments, etc.).
• Filing: Companies subject to Zakat must file an annual Zakat return, typically within 120 days from the end of their fiscal year, similar to corporate tax returns.
• Purpose: Zakat contributions are used for charitable and social welfare purposes within the Kingdom.

4. The Saudization (Nitaqat) Program and Labour Law Compliance

The Saudization (Nitaqat) program is a key component of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, aiming to increase the employment of Saudi nationals in the private sector.

Nitaqat System:

• Categorization: Companies are categorized into color-coded zones (Platinum, High Green, Mid Green, Low Green, Yellow, Red) based on their compliance with Saudization quotas. Higher-tier companies (Platinum, Green) receive benefits like easier visa processes and eligibility for government tenders, while lower-tier companies face operational restrictions and penalties.
• Quotas: Specific Saudization percentages are mandated based on the industry sector and company size. These quotas are regularly updated, with significant increases implemented across various professions in 2025 (e.g., healthcare, consulting, retail, accounting, engineering).
• Minimum Wage: To be counted towards Saudization quotas, a Saudi national employee must receive a minimum salary of SAR 4,000 per month. For certain professions like dentists, a higher minimum salary (e.g., SAR 9,000) may apply.
• Reserved Positions: Certain roles are exclusively reserved for Saudis (e.g., HR managers, receptionists, customer service agents, sales representatives).
• Compliance Tools: Companies must monitor their Saudization status through platforms like Qiwa (Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development).
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Fines, downgraded company ratings, restricted government services (e.g., visa processing), and even suspension of operations.

5. Annual Audits and Filing Requirements

Companies in Saudi Arabia have ongoing financial and corporate filing obligations.

• Annual Audits: All registered companies are generally required to undergo an annual audit of their financial statements by a certified public accountant registered in Saudi Arabia. The audited financial statements are a crucial part of tax filings.
• Financial Statements Submission: Audited financial statements must be submitted to ZATCA as part of the annual corporate tax or Zakat return. For listed companies, specific deadlines apply for announcing quarterly and annual financial statements to the Saudi Exchange (Tadawul).
• Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) Reporting: Mandatory for all legal entities to disclose beneficial ownership information via the Ministry of Commerce portal. This typically has an annual or periodic filing requirement.
• Commercial Registration (CR) Renewal: Annual renewal of the Commercial Registration is required.
• Chamber of Commerce Membership Renewal: Annual renewal of membership with the local Chamber of Commerce.
• Qiwa, Mudad, and Muqeem Compliance:
  • Qiwa: For managing employment contracts, visa services, and Saudization compliance. All new contracts and amendments must be registered here.
  • Mudad: For managing wage protection system compliance and payroll data submission.
  • Muqeem: For managing residency permits (Iqama) for foreign employees, including renewals, exits/re-entries, and sponsorship transfers.

Sector-Specific Regulatory Filings: Depending on the industry, additional annual reports or compliance filings may be required by specific regulatory bodies (e.g., Saudi Food and Drug Authority - SFDA, Ministry of Health, Capital Market Authority - CMA).

Once a company is registered in Saudi Arabia, Indian investors and employees must obtain the necessary visas and permits to work and stay legally. This process involves securing work visas, residence permits (Iqama), and using official platforms like Qiwa and Muqeem for approvals and compliance.

1. General Manager & Investor Visas

Indian business owners and managers can apply for specific visas to manage operations or invest in Saudi Arabia.

General Manager Visa: Linked to company registration (CR), applied via the Qiwa platform.

• The application requires a valid passport, photos, attested certificates, an invitation letter, and medical and police clearance.

Investor Visa (Premium Residency): Offers long-term stay with full ownership and no local sponsor.

• Temporary: Approximately SAR 100,000 investment (renewable)
• Permanent: Approximately SAR 800,000 investment
• Includes benefits like family residency and property ownership.

Visiting Investor Visa: For exploring opportunities without sponsorship; no work allowed, valid up to 1 year.

2. Iqama (Residence Permit)

The Iqama is essential for living and working in Saudi Arabia. It’s issued after entering the country with a work visa.

• Sponsored by the Saudi employer.
• Requires medical exam, document submission, and biometrics.
• Valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually.
• Employers usually pay SAR 7,200–8,400 per year.

3. Employee Work Visas

To hire Indian employees, companies must secure block visas and follow the formal process.

Block Visas: Pre-approval based on Saudization and company status.

Documents Required from Employee:

• Valid passport, visa form, and employment contract
• Attested educational/professional certificates
• Medical and police clearance

Professional Verification: Mandatory exams for technical roles before visa issuance.

• Visa stamping is done in India; Iqama is processed after arrival in KSA.

4. Qiwa & Muqeem Platforms

These platforms are used to manage visas, permits, and employee records digitally.

• Qiwa: Handles work visas, contracts, Saudization status, and labor-related services.
• Muqeem: Manages Iqama issuance, renewals, exit/re-entry visas, and employee residency data.