Address

Oryx World Business Centre,
Dubai - UAE

info@oryxworld.com

Free call

+(971) 44 46 2000

Address

Oryx World Business Centre
Dubai, UAE

info@oryxworld.com

call

+(971) 44 46 2000

SETTING UP YOUR BUSINESS IN KSA

Oryx World aims to create new possibilities for companies and individuals to invest, live and work in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Setting up a business in Saudi Arabia can offer several benefits for entrepreneurs and investors. The Saudi government has been working on economic reforms to attract foreign investment and diversify its economy away from oil dependency. Here are some of the benefits of setting up a business in Saudi Arabia:

Saudi Arabia is strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it an ideal hub for businesses looking to tap into these markets. Its proximity to the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf provides access to key shipping routes.

Saudi Arabia has one of the largest and most stable economies in the Middle East. It is the largest economy in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and has a relatively low debt-to-GDP ratio.
The Saudi government has implemented several economic reforms, including the Vision 2030 plan, aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing its dependence on oil. These reforms have made it easier for businesses to operate in the country.
The government offers various incentives to attract foreign investment, such as tax exemptions and reduced customs duties for certain industries. Additionally, there are efforts to streamline business registration and licensing processes.
Saudi Arabia has a large and relatively affluent consumer market with a young and tech-savvy population. This provides opportunities for businesses in various sectors, including retail, technology, and entertainment.
The country is heavily investing in infrastructure development, including transportation, logistics, and industrial zones. This makes it easier for businesses to operate and expand their operations.
Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s largest oil and gas producers, ensuring a stable and abundant energy supply for businesses at competitive prices.
Saudi Arabia has signed free trade agreements with several countries and is a member of international organizations like the World Trade Organization (WTO), which can provide preferential access to global markets.
The government has established agencies and organizations that offer support and services to foreign investors, including the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA).

Saudi Arabia is undergoing significant cultural and social changes, with increased opportunities for entertainment, tourism, and cultural exchange. This can benefit businesses in related sectors.

However, it’s essential to keep in mind that Saudi Arabia also has its own unique business and cultural challenges. It’s advisable to conduct thorough market research, understand local regulations, and seek legal and financial advice before starting a business in the country. Additionally, the business environment can be influenced by global economic conditions, so it’s essential to stay informed about any changes in policies and regulations.

COMMON LEGAL FORMS OF BUSINESS IN KSA

Limited Liability Company

Limited liability One-Person Company

Solidarity Professional Company

Joint Stock
Company

Foreign Company Branch

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

A limited liability company (LLC) is the most common legal form among foreign investors into Saudi Arabia (KSA), individual personal liability for each shareholder is limited to their contribution to the share capital. The Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA) offers foreign ownership of a company without a local partner and minimal government restriction. MISA registration/license is required for a business to establish with 100% foreign ownership in Saudi Arabia.

Limited liability One-Person Company

A Shareholder Limited Liability Company in Saudi Arabia (KSA) can be formed by a single shareholder who holds 100% of the shares and has the rights and powers of the General Manager, Board of Directors and Shareholders General Assembly. This also means that the liability of the company lies with the individual shareholder, limited to their contribution to the share capital.

Sole Establishment / Solidarity Professional Company

A Sole Establishment/ Proprietorship in Saudi Arabia (KSA) is referred to as an establishment. This company type is suitable for small businesses. An establishment has an individual/sole trader, who has unlimited personal liability for the business and the license is issued in their name – a company or corporate body cannot own the business. The sole proprietorship is not a legal entity and refers to the business owner who is personally liable.

Joint Stock Company

This legal form is popular with multinational companies or companies that are already publicly listed on other stock exchange markets. Regulatory requirements for incorporation and the degree of control/involvement of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI). Further regulations imposed on JSCs increase compliance costs considerably as compared with LLCs.

Foreign Company Branch

Branches are considered to be an extension of their parent company. Branches can be established relatively quickly in comparison to LLCs and JSCs. A branch can be permitted by MISA licensing to perform a full range of activities. The branch can engage in both public and private sector projects and can promote/solicit its MISA-licensed activity throughout the Kingdom. Otherwise, branches are not allowed to conduct promotion, marketing, or trading activity.