“Explore the key steps, strategies, and insights for setting up and operating a business in Saudi Arabia. From licensing and compliance to cultural nuance and Saudization – this 5-part series helps foreign investors get it right from the start”.
Published by SBJBC’s member AEI Saudi on their website and YouTube page, this 5-part informative and digestible video series is critical for investors and prospective companies to help learn the correct way to set-up in Saudi Arabia and conduct business in the Kingdom.
Below is the list of videos currently published by AEI Saudi with a brief synopsis and link. Please consider giving them a watch to deepen your understanding of market entry to Saudi Arabia or even to begin the learning process!
Access the Website Page [here].
How to Set Up a 100% Foreign-Owned Business in Saudi Arabia
The process of setting up a foreign-owned business in Saudi Arabia is notably intricate and demands careful navigation through various regulatory requirements. The speaker, Stuart D’Souza, outlines the essential steps and documentation necessary for foreign investors to successfully establish their presence in the Kingdom. With a focus on compliance and strategic planning, the discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the licensing requirements, the role of local partnerships, and the necessary governmental interactions. The speaker’s insights are backed by a clear methodology that encompasses both legal frameworks and practical applications, making this guide a valuable resource for potential investors.
Watch the Video [here].
Business Compliance in Saudi Arabia
Understanding Saudi Arabia’s key government portals is essential to staying compliant and avoiding costly penalties. In this fast-paced guide, AEI Saudi’s Key Account Manager, Amal Ibrahim, breaks down the core platforms every company must use—from managing expat residency through the Muqeem portal, to handling payroll and contract compliance via Mudad and Qiwa, and calculating mandatory social insurance with GOSI. Whether you’re overseeing visas, employment transfers, or wage protection, this video gives you a clear and concise overview of how to stay on the right side of Saudi labor law and immigration regulations. Stay informed, stay compliant—watch now to make sure your business is operating smoothly and compliantly in Saudi Arabia.
Watch the Video [here].
What is Saudization (Nitaqat) in Saudi Arabia?
In this quick guide, AEI Saudi’s Deputy Head of People Services, Moby Alam, dives into Saudization (Nitaqat)—a critical program for foreign investors looking to set up business in Saudi Arabia. Saudization requires companies to employ a specific quota of Saudi nationals based on several specific factors. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development oversees this program, classifying companies as Platinum, Green, or Red, with penalties for non-compliance. Whether you’re running a small start-up or a large corporation, understanding how to meet these requirements is key to avoiding restrictions and ensuring smooth operations. From the impact of hiring Saudi nationals in specific professions to how factors like salaries and disabilities influence your compliance, this video covers all the essentials to help you navigate the Saudization landscape and integrate it into your business strategy. Watch the video now to learn more on how Saudization might impact your business!
Watch the Video [here].
Saudi Arabia’s Regional Headquarters (RHQ) Programme
In this video, AEI Saudi’s Deputy CEO, Mickey Stewart, explores the Regional Headquarters (RHQ) program in Saudi Arabia—an essential initiative within the Vision 2030 strategy. The RHQ program is primarily aimed at multinational corporations but is also open to small and medium enterprises. It allows foreign investors to establish a legal entity in Saudi Arabia without conducting revenue-generating activities, while still benefiting from key incentives. RHQs are required to carry out strategic functions like planning and marketing, but commercial activities remain with a separate operational entity. Key eligibility criteria include having an overseas parent company and two additional commercial registrations in different countries. The program offers several perks, including a 30-year tax exemption, Saudization exemptions, and access to exclusive government contracts. With mandatory employee requirements and specific activity timelines, the RHQ program offers significant benefits for those looking to expand into the Kingdom. Watch this video to get the full details!
Watch the Video [here].
Tax in Saudi Arabia for Foreign Investors
In this 2-minute guide, AEI Saudi Co-Founder & CEO Stuart D’Souza breaks down the key tax obligations for foreign investors setting up a business in Saudi Arabia. Managed by the Zakat Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), Saudi Arabia’s tax system includes several key components: corporate income tax (CIT), value-added tax (VAT), withholding tax (WHT), and payroll tax. Foreign businesses are subject to CIT at a rate of 20%, while Saudi business owners pay Zakat at 2.5%. VAT is set at 15%, with exemptions for certain goods and services, and returns must be filed quarterly unless your revenue exceeds SAR 40 million, when it becomes monthly. Withholding tax varies between 5% to 20%, depending on the nature of the payment. Additionally, payroll taxes for both Saudi nationals and expat employees are mandatory, and businesses must comply with annual audits and use ZATCA-approved accounting systems. Watch the video for essential insights to ensure full compliance!
Watch the Video [here].
