Business
Company registration in a Saudi Arabian SEZ
Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Saudi Arabia are part of the Vision 2030 strategy aimed at diversifying and stimulating private sector growth.
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Overview
In 2023, Saudi Arabia launched four SEZs that offer:
- 5% corporate tax for 20 years
- 0% withholding tax
- 100% foreign ownership
- Simplified customs procedures
Choosing the right SEZ should be based on a thorough analysis of each zone’s advantages and limitations, as well as the company’s business plan and operational specifics.
Mainland vs. SEZ in Saudi Arabia: Key Differences
Foreign Ownership
- Mainland: Up to 75% for LLCs; 100% only for certain sectors under a MISA license
- SEZ: 100% ownership allowed
Taxes
- Mainland: Standard rates: Corporate tax 20%, VAT 15%
- SEZ: Benefits: 0–5% corporate tax, customs duties waived, 0% VAT on exports
Capital
- Mainland: Higher (e.g., from 500,000 SAR for LLCs)
- SEZ: Lower or no minimum capital requirement
Bureaucratic Complexity
- Mainland: Process is more complex and takes longer (2–6 months)
- SEZ: Simpler process (3–6 months)
Localization (Saudization)
- Mainland: Saudization hiring requirements (e.g., quotas for local citizens)
- SEZ: Some SEZs offer Saudization benefits. No requirement to hire Saudis in the first 5 years; 15% Saudis required from years 6–10.
Standard Customs Duties
- Mainland: Standard customs duties apply
- SEZ: Duty-free import/export for SEZ businesses
Activities
- Mainland: Broader scope, but restrictions exist for foreign investors
- SEZ: Limited to approved sectors (manufacturing, logistics, cloud computing)
"Registering a Mainland company in Saudi Arabia is ideal for businesses aiming for long-term presence in the region. Despite higher costs and complexities, it grants access to key markets and government projects." Alexandra Kurdiumova Co-founder & Senior Partner
Registration Procedure
On average, the process of creating a legal entity in a Saudi SEZ takes 3–6 months depending on the scale of the business.
- Communication with the SEZ Administration (Remote) The company expresses interest in registering in a specific SEZ. Communication takes place between the company’s representatives and SEZ administration. The company prepares a package of documents including a business plan, activity description, and financial forecasts for review.
- SEZ Approval for Registration (Remote) The SEZ administration reviews the company’s case and decides whether to approve or reject registration in the SEZ.
- Company Registration (Remote) Interaction with the SEZ administration and the Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority (ECZA) for company registration and issuance of founding documents.
- Obtaining Licenses (Remote) Obtaining a commercial license authorizing business operations within the SEZ. Licenses may be issued for manufacturing, trade, services, or other activities.
- Registration with the Ministry of Labor (Remote) Required for hiring employees and compliance with the Saudization (Nitaqat) program.
- Registration with the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) (Remote) Necessary for managing employee social contributions and complying with Nitaqat requirements.
- CEO Visa and Residence Permit via the Ministry of Labor and MISA (In Person) The CEO must be present in Saudi Arabia for a medical examination.
- Registration You have to make the registration with the Zakat, Tax & Customs Authority, it can be done remotely
- Opening a Corporate Bank Account Remote or in person, depending on the bank
The complete roadmap for starting and running a business in Saudi Arabia is in our guide 'How to Do Business in Saudi Arabia?'
In the guide, you’ll find not only basic information but also expert recommendations based on real cases and in-depth knowledge of the jurisdiction:
- What the Nitaqat system is and how to meet Saudization quotas
- Key taxes in Saudi Arabia
- What to do after registering a company in Saudi Arabia
Ready to discuss your project?
Submit a request and we’ll get in touch to clarify details:
- We’ll help you choose the right business activity and jurisdiction
- Provide a full roadmap for company setup
- Clearly define project timelines and budget
