Foreign Company Registration in Saudi Arabia (100% Owned)
Saudi Arabia is open for business. Learn how to expand your global footprint by establishing a fully foreign-owned subsidiary in the Kingdom.
The “Sponsor” Myth
Myth: “I need a Saudi partner (51%) to open a company.”
Fact: Under the MISA Investment Law, foreign companies can legally own 100% of their Saudi entity. The “Kafeel” (sponsor) system for businesses was abolished for foreign investors. You are the owner, you are the sponsor.
Saudi Arabia is no longer a closed market. With Vision 2030, the Kingdom has rolled out the red carpet for international firms. Whether you are a US tech startup, a UK consultancy, or a UAE trading firm, you can establish a direct presence in Riyadh.
1. Choose Your Vehicle
Foreign companies typically choose between three structures. Selecting the wrong one can have tax implications.
LLC (Subsidiary)
A separate legal entity. Limits liability.
Most PopularBranch Office
Extension of parent. 100% liability.
For ContractsRegional HQ
Strategic center for MENA region.
0% Tax Incentive2. Requirements (The Checklist)
To get approved by MISA, your parent company must prove it is a legitimate, active business abroad.
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Commercial Registration (CR) Certificate of Incorporation from your home country.
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Audited Financial Statements Financials for the last fiscal year, audited by a certified accountant.
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Board Resolution Decision by shareholders to open a company in Saudi Arabia.
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Power of Attorney (PoA) Authorizing a Saudi service provider (like Mehwar) to act on your behalf.
3. The Attestation Trap
Crucial Step
MISA will not accept plain scans. All foreign documents must be:
1. Notarized in home country.
2. Attested by Ministry of Foreign Affairs in home country.
3. Attested by the Saudi Embassy in home country.
4. Attested by MOFA in Saudi Arabia.
4. The Execution Timeline
Once documents are attested, the process in Saudi Arabia is fast.
MISA License Issuance
Online application via MISA portal.
Commercial Registration (CR)
Issued by Ministry of Commerce.
700 Number & Files
Chamber of Commerce, ZATCA, Labor File.
Bank Account
GM visit required for signature.
5. Post-Setup & GM Visa
After your company is registered, you need a General Manager (GM) to run it.
- The GM must be appointed in the CR.
- If the GM is outside Saudi, we issue a new Employment Visa.
- If the GM is already in Saudi (Iqama holder), we transfer their sponsorship via Qiwa.
Start Your Expansion
Don’t let bureaucracy slow you down. Our team handles the attestation, MISA licensing, and banking setup end-to-end.