For many years, the United Arab Emirates has served as a global center for innovation and business. But right next door, a new economic powerhouse is arising thanks to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030. This offers businesses and residents of the UAE a fantastic chance to broaden horizons and access the biggest economy in the GCC.
We at Express Business Service are experts at helping you navigate this fascinating new environment. Our experience guarantees a smooth transition, giving you the confidence and ease of business setup for UAE resident in Saudi Arabia. From comprehending the market to obtaining your Saudi Arabian business license for foreigners, we are here to support you at every stage.
Saudi Arabia is in the midst of a huge economic change. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 is created to diversify its economy away from oil, creating incredible opportunities in new industries. For a UAE tenant, this means:
Largest Market in the GCC
Saudi Arabia, home to more than 37 million people, provides a sizable consumer base and a bigger market for your goods and services.
Proximity and Shared Culture
Government Support
Mega-Projects
Key Business Opportunities in Saudi Arabia for UAE Investors
Technology & Digital Transformation
As the Kingdom’s economy rapidly digitizes, there is a growing need for cybersecurity, fintech, e-commerce, and smart city solutions.
Tourism & Entertainment
Construction & Real Estate
Manufacturing & Logistics
Investments in domestic manufacturing and supply chain management are strongly encouraged as Saudi Arabia strives to establish itself as a global logistics hub.
Education and Healthcare
The government’s heavy investment in these fields is driving up demand for private educational institutions, healthcare providers, and associated technology.
Legal Requirements for UAE Residents to Start a Business in Saudi Arabia
Establishing a business in Saudi Arabia for a UAE resident has become simpler, but there are still major legal demands to fulfill. The most vital move is getting a business license from the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia. This business license, formerly known as SAGIA, is compulsory for all foreign investors.
- Commercial Registration: This is your official business license Saudi Arabia for foreigners from the Ministry of Commerce.
- Physical Office Address: You will require a registered physical office area. Virtual office addresses aren’t enough for a commercial license.
- Legal Documents: All your documents, comprising your corporation’s Memorandum of Association, should be completely attested and translated into Arabic.
- Adherence to Saudization: The government needs corporations to fulfill some quotas for appointing Saudi citizens. This is a vital aspect to think about in your business plan.
Do not worry, handling these demands can be complicated, and that’s where we come in. Express Business Service makes sure you fulfill every legal need to sidestep uncertainties.
Business Structure Options & Ownership Rules
As a foreign investor, you have a number of choices for your company structure. The good news is that under current reforms, you can now have 100% foreign ownership in a number of industries. This removes the requirement for a local partner, providing you with full control over your business. Basic business frameworks for the UAE citizens include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): This is the most famous option for small and medium-sized companies. An LLC secures you from personal liability and is adaptable in its ownership framework.
- Branch of a Foreign Company: You can open a branch office in Saudi Arabia if you already have a well-established company in the United Arab Emirates. This enables you to conduct business utilizing the name of your parent company.
- One-person Company: For individual business owners, an LLC can be established with just one owner.
Step-by-Step Process for UAE Residents to Set Up a Business
Preliminary Planning and Consultation
We begin by learning about your Saudi Arabian target market, objectives, and business concept. We'll assist you in selecting the appropriate legal structure and defining your business operations.
Application for MISA Licence
Your application will be prepared by our professionals and sent to the Ministry of Investment. The first and most important step is this. We guarantee that every document satisfies MISA's requirements and is accurate.
Commercial Registration (CR)
We will move forward with the Commercial Registration as soon as your MISA license is accepted. This step entails obtaining your official business license in Saudi Arabia for foreigners, registering your company name, and creating the Articles of Association.
Government Registrations and Post-Registration
We will take care of all required post-registration procedures after receiving your CR. This entails registering your business with a number of government agencies, including the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA), the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI), and the Ministry of Labor (for Saudization).
Processing Bank Accounts and Visas
We'll help you open a Saudi Arabian corporate bank account. As the general manager or investor of your new business, we also assist you with obtaining your residence visa (Iqama).
Required Documents for UAE Investors
- Copies of the passports of the designated general manager and each shareholder.
- A crisp, passport-sized photo of the general manager.
- A copy of your business's UAE trade license, if any.
- Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association (if you are an established business).
- Financial statements from the previous fiscal year that have been audited (for existing companies).
- A board decision to open a new business or branch in Saudi Arabia.
How Express Business Service Will Help You
We are your growth partners, not just consultants. Express Business Service provides all-inclusive assistance to guarantee a hassle-free business setup for UAE resident.
- Professional Advice: Our staff is well-versed in Saudi Arabia's business and legal environment. In order to give you accurate advice, we keep up with the most recent regulations.
- Time and Cost Efficiency: We expedite the entire procedure, assisting you in avoiding typical pitfalls and potentially expensive delays. We take care of all the paperwork so you can concentrate on running your company.
- Full-Service Solutions: We provide a wide range of services, from the first consultation to getting your license, opening a bank account, and even after-setup assistance like payroll and accounting.
- Tailored Approach: We recognize that every company is different. We offer solutions that are specifically designed to meet your needs and guarantee the success of your business setup.
Government Support & Incentives for UAE Entrepreneurs
Tax Incentives
Funding Opportunities
Simplified Procedures
Infrastructure Support
World-class infrastructure, such as advanced telecommunication networks, logistics centers, and industrial cities, can be advantageous to businesses.
Cost of Starting a Business in Saudi Arabia for UAE Residents
The location, legal structure, and type of business can all affect how much it costs to start a business setup for UAE resident in Saudi Arabia. You will always know exactly what you’re paying for thanks to our clear pricing structure. typical expenses consist of:
- Government Fees: The MISA license fee, the commercial registration fee, and the Chamber of Commerce membership fee are examples of government fees.
- Professional Fees: These are the costs we charge to manage the entire procedure for you.
- Office Space: The price of renting a real office space.
- Visa Fees: Investor visa (Iqama) fees.
- Other Expenses: Additional costs could include notarization, translation, and bank fees.
Benefits of Expanding from UAE to Saudi Arabia
Market Leadership
Diversification of Revenue
Access to New Talent
Greater Regional Influence
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
No, in the majority of industries, foreign investors can now fully own their company, doing away with the need for a local partner.
Depending on the intricacy of the business activity and the speed at which government approvals are obtained, the process usually takes a few weeks to a few months. This timeline is greatly shortened by our services.
It is possible for an established UAE business to open a branch office in the Kingdom. This is a popular and simple expansion strategy.
Although most LLCs don’t have a minimum capital requirement, some activities might have particular needs. This information will be given to you during your consultation.
We help investors and their families with every step of the visa application process, including submitting paperwork and corresponding with government officials. We guarantee a hassle-free acquisition of your residence permit (Iqama).
