Your step-by-step guide to business setup in Saudi Arabia — from name reservation and MISA licensing to commercial registration and compliance.
Step 1
Authority
Ministry of Commerce
Estimated Government Fee (SAR)
200 (Arabic) / 500 (English)
Estimated Timeline
≈ 2 days
Step 2
Authority
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Estimated Government Fee (SAR)
≈ 250 per document (including translation charges)
Estimated Timeline
≈ 5 days
Step 3
Authority
Ministry of Investment (MISA)
Estimated Government Fee (SAR)
No fees (currently waived)
Estimated Timeline
≈ 2 weeks
Step 4
Authority
Ministry of Commerce
Estimated Government Fee (SAR)
≈ 1,800
Estimated Timeline
≈ 5 days
Step 5
Authority
Ministry of Labor
Estimated Government Fee (SAR)
No fees
Estimated Timeline
Saturdays
Step 6
Authority
Ministry of Interior / MISA / Ministry of Labor
Estimated Government Fee (SAR)
≈ 14,000 (if GM is foreigner)
Estimated Timeline
4 – 10 weeks
Step 7
Authority
Saudi Post / Relevant Chamber
Estimated Government Fee (SAR)
≈ 1,000
Estimated Timeline
3 – 5 days
Step 8
Authority
Multiple Authorities
Estimated Government Fee (SAR)
≈ 3,000
Estimated Timeline
≈ 1 – 2 weeks (parallel)
Step 9
Authority
Ministry of Commerce (MoC)
Estimated Government Fee (SAR)
≈ 1,800
Estimated Timeline
≈ 1 week
Step 10
Authority
Any Commercial Bank
Estimated Government Fee (SAR)
No fee (Minimum deposit required based on bank selected)
Estimated Timeline
≈ 1 week
Once you understand the process, Get Started to receive your instant proposal with the best setup options and eligible activities for your business in Saudi Arabia. Need help at any step? Talk to an Expert for personalized guidance.
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