Good news!🎉

Majority of the business activities are open for foreign investors.

In total, there are about 2,800 classified business activities in the country. Over 2,100 of these allow full foreign ownership with no ownership or capital restrictions.

Around 600 activities come with some form of restriction, while approximately 80 activities are not permitted for foreign investors.

Click on Get Started on the start easy. homepage to view specific allow ability and restriction details for your business idea.

1. Activities with 100% Foreign Ownership Allowed

The list below includes just a few examples from the vast number of business activities that permit 100% foreign ownership in Saudi Arabia:

• Information Technology & Software Development
• Digital Marketing & E-commerce
• Logistics and Cargo Transport
• Restaurants, Cafés, Hotels, and Catering Services
• Tourism and Travel Agency Operations
• Healthcare Clinics, Medical Labs, & Hospitals
• Industrial Manufacturing (non-defense)
• Agriculture and Aquaculture Activities
• Construction, Fit-Out & Maintenance Services
• Laundry, Salons, Repairs, Pet Care & Events
• Education, Training & Learning Services
• Manufacturing, Production, Repair, Maintenance & Installation

2. Restricted or Conditional Activities

Some business activities may require Saudi partner ownership or special conditions, including minimum capital or industry-specific licensing. Key examples include:

• Most wholesale and retail trade activities
• Communication activities
• Professional consulting activities
• Land transportation
• Real estate development activities
• Recruitment agents and domestic worker rental activity

3. Activities Not Permitted for Foreign Investors

The following are examples of business activities that are fully restricted for foreign investors in Saudi Arabia:

• Wholesale and retail sale of passenger/lorries/motorcycles by commission agents
• Marine and freshwater fishing
• Crude oil and natural gas extraction
• Manufacturing of nicotine products
• Pharmacy and veterinary drug retailing
• Security, bodyguard, and civil guard services
• Services for Hajj, Umrah, and pilgrim transport

How to Know What’s Allowed?

Saudi Arabia classifies business activities under the MISA licensing framework.
Depending on your nationality and company structure, you may need to fulfill specific ownership, documentation, or capital requirements.

Start your business setup the smart way — with start easy.