Company Formation in Saudi Arabia within 15 Days!

 

The majority of investors consider the process of Company Formation in Saudi Arabia to be a tedious one, which is where Reyson Badger steps in. The company formation process can be broken broken down into nuances and we help you get a license within 15 days.

The Saudi Arabian government has made a significant commitment to developing the country's infrastructure and facilitating business activities. Saudi Arabia offers numerous advantages to businesses, including a large market, skilled workforce, and favorable business regulations. Furthermore, the Saudi Arabian government strives to increase opportunities for women in the workplace and encourage their entrepreneurial pursuits. Saudi Arabia's efforts are making it an increasingly attractive destination for companies seeking to expand their Middle Eastern operations.

A number of laws and regulations have also been reformed, making it easier for businesses to operate in the country. The Saudi Arabian government holds 20% of the world's proven petroleum reserves. The country is OPEC's top oil exporter and one of its most influential members. During the past seven years, the Saudi economy has grown by an average of 4% annually, primarily due to a pro-business environment in which investors are positioned close to the Arabic market. As a result of these reforms, visible results have already been achieved. Recently, Saudi Arabia has attracted a number of high-profile corporations, including Google and Uber. Companies like these are investing in the country and creating jobs for Saudi citizens.

 

What is company formation in KSA

Company formation in KSA refers to the process of establishing a new business entity in the country. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offers various types of business structures, including:

1. Limited Liability Company (LLC): A popular choice for foreign investors, LLCs offer limited liability protection and flexible ownership structures.

2. Joint Stock Company (JSC): A JSC is a publicly traded company with a minimum capital requirement of SAR 500,000.

3. Branch Office: A branch office is an extension of a foreign company, allowing it to operate in KSA without establishing a separate entity.

4. Representative Office: A representative office is a liaison office that promotes the interests of a foreign company in KSA.

5. Sole Proprietorship: A business that is owned and run by just one person is known as a single proprietorship.

 

 

Company Structure in Saudi Arabia

Firstly, it is imperative that you select the legal structure that best meets the requirements and objectives of your company. A brief overview of the most common options is provided below:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Offers limited liability protection to its shareholders, making it the most popular choice among foreign investors. A minimum of two shareholders is required, as well as a share capital of SAR 100,000 (Saudi Arabian Riyal).
• Joint Stock Company (JSC): An ideal option for companies seeking to raise capital through public offerings. For a private JSC, it is essential that there are five founders, a board of directors, and a substantial amount of share capital, which begins at SAR 2 million for a private JSC and at SAR 10 million for a public JSC.
• Sole Proprietorship: Available only to Saudi nationals, the entrepreneur retains complete control and ownership of the business.
• Branch of a Foreign Company: Allows established foreign companies to operate a branch in Saudi Arabia. A local sponsor may be required and specific regulations apply.
• Limited Partnership:  Limited partnerships have general and limited partners.General partners are liable for the debts of the business unlimited, while limited partners are only liable for their investment. A limited partnership is a good option for businesses that need to raise capital from investors but want to limit their liability.
• Joint Venture: Joint ventures are business partnerships between two or more companies. Foreign companies often use joint ventures to enter the Saudi market. Each partner's rights and obligations are specified in a joint venture agreement.

Based on the business activity and the legal form of the company, the shareholding structure and paid-up capital requirements will differ.

 

Taxation and compliance requirements for companies in Saudi Arabia

 

• Corporate Income Tax
• Withholding Tax
• Social Insurance
• Saudization
• VAT
• Zakat

 

 Corporate Income Tax

 

• Rate: 20% on net adjusted profits.

• Taxable Entities: All firms operating in Saudi Arabia, including foreign companies.

• Tax Year: Typically a calendar year, but can be adjusted based on the company's financial year.

• Tax Return Filing: Annual tax returns must be filed within 120 days of the fiscal year-end.

 

Withholding Tax

 

• Rate: Varies from 5% to 20% depending on the type of income and recipient.

• Applicable To: Payments made to non-resident individuals and entities for services rendered or goods supplied.

 

Social Insurance

 

Employer Contributions: Employers need to pay a social insurance fund for their employees with the aim of offering them diverse social security benefits, such as health insurance, pension, and unemployment benefits.

 

Saudization

 

• Requirement: Companies are required to have a certain percentage of Saudi nationals in their workforce.

• Nitaqat Program: A government initiative to promote Saudization and monitor compliance.

 

VAT (Value-Added Tax)

 

• Standard Rate: 15%

• Zero-Rated Supplies: Certain goods and services, such as basic food items and healthcare, are zero-rated.

• Exempt Supplies: Some goods and services, such as residential rents, are exempt from VAT.

• VAT Registration: Businesses with annual turnover exceeding SAR 500,000 are required to register for VAT.

• VAT Return Filing: VAT returns must be filed monthly or quarterly, depending on the business's turnover.

 

Zakat

 

• Religious Tax: A religious obligation for Muslim individuals and businesses.

• Calculation: Based on the net worth of the business.

• Payment:  Zakat is typically paid directly to religious institutions or charities.

 

Steps for Company Formation in KSA

In order for a company to be incorporated in Saudi Arabia, adequate conceptualization is required, as well as the fulfillment of certain regulatory requirements. In this upward economic environment, it is recommended that you take a step-by-step approach to the process of company incorporation. For more information, please refer to the steps listed below.

Step 1: Prepare the documents required for the Company Formation

Step 2: Get an Investment License from the Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia (MISA)

Step 3: Articles of Association - Finalize the Legal Documentation for the Company 

Step 4: Obtain your Company's Commercial Registration License

Step 5: Choose your Business Location and Register the national address of your company.

Step 6: Register with the Government departments responsible for taxation, insurance, and employment.

Step 7: Apply for your Corporate Bank Account in KSA

Step 8: Ask General Manager to visit KSA for getting Residency (IQAMA)

Step 9: Ensure the General Manager is listed on the company's books and with the government.

 

Company Formation Services in Saudi Arabia

 

Aspects to consider

• Local Sponsor: A Saudi Arabian sponsor may be required for certain business activities and structures (such as branches of foreign companies). A sponsor serves as your legal representative and facilitates communication with the authorities on your behalf.
• Visas and Work Permits: For foreign employees to work for your company, they will need a work visa and a work permit. Typically, the company is responsible for sponsoring the process.
• Business Advisory: Due to the complexity of the process, it is highly recommended that you seek the advice of a professional consultant for company formation in Saudi. A company formation specialist can assist in navigating the legalities, handling documentation, and ensuring that the process is as smooth as possible.

 

Documents Needed to Register a Saudi Arabian Company

For company registration in Saudi Arabia, the following documents may be required:

• A company name reservation certificate is used to verify that the proposed company name is available and has not already been registered with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI).
• The Memorandum of Association outlines the company's objectives, capital, and shareholders. The document must be translated into Arabic and notarized.
• The articles of association set forth the firm's internal regulations and management structure. Notarization and translation into Arabic are required.
• Copies of the firm's stakeholders' and directors' passports.
• The commercial registration certificate of each company shareholder and director.
• The lease agreement or ownership documents for the company's office or commercial property.
•  For companies registered by agents or representatives, a power of attorney is required.

 

Challenges in Company Formation in KSA

While setting up a business in KSA can be a lucrative venture, there are several challenges that entrepreneurs and businesses may face:

• Navigating complex regulations without professional help: KSA has a complex regulatory environment, and navigating it without professional guidance can be daunting.
• Finding a trustworthy local sponsor: Foreign businesses often require a local sponsor to establish a presence in KSA. Finding a trustworthy sponsor can be a challenge.
• Ensuring compliance with labor laws and tax regulations: KSA has strict labor laws and tax regulations. Ensuring compliance with these regulations can be a challenge, especially for foreign businesses.

 

Role of Professional Company Formation in KSA

Professional company formation services play a crucial role in assisting businesses to establish a presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Their services include:

1. Assistance with legal documentation and registration: Preparing and submitting necessary documents to register the company with the relevant authorities.

2. Advisory on tax compliance and operational setup: Providing guidance on tax laws, regulations, and operational requirements to ensure compliance and smooth operations.

3. Streamlining the entire process for smooth execution: Coordinating with relevant authorities, preparing necessary documents, and ensuring timely completion of the company formation process.

 

Why choose Saudi Arabia for your Company Formation?

Several advantages can be gained by setting up a business in Saudi Arabia:

• Strategic Location: Saudi Arabia is strategically located at the crossroads between Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it an ideal location for businesses looking to gain access to these markets.
• Economic Diversification: The Saudi government has been actively working on diversifying its economy away from oil dependency. Businesses in a wide range of industries are able to benefit from this diversification, including those in technology, manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism.
• Investment Incentives: Various incentives are provided by the Saudi government to attract foreign investment, including tax exemptions, subsidies, and favorable regulations.
• Educated Workforce: Saudi Arabia has an educated and young workforce, with over 50% of the population under the age of 30. The country also has a high literacy rate, with 95% of adults able to read and write.
• Stable and business-friendly environment: Saudi Arabia offers a stable and business-friendly environment for foreign companies to set up operations. A booming economy has been achieved as a result of the government's creation of an environment conducive to business.
• A growing economy: Saudi Arabia's economy has been growing rapidly. GDP growth in 2018 was 3.2%. In 2022, it became 8.74%. According to the IMF, Saudi Arabia will have the world's sixth-largest economy by 2030.
• Growing Consumer Market: The Saudi consumer market is large and affluent, with a young population that is adopting technology and consumer goods at an increasing pace.
• Infrastructure Development: Government investments have been made in the development of infrastructure, including transportation, communication, and utilities, in order to facilitate business operations.
• Stable Political Environment: Compared to other countries in the region, Saudi Arabia maintains a stable political environment, providing a level of predictability and security for business.
• Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative aims to make the country a global investment powerhouse. Reforms are being undertaken to improve the business environment, state-owned enterprises are being privatized, and investments are being made in many different sectors.

 

If you are considering company formation in Saudi Arabia or another area, you must undertake extensive study and analyze your individual goals and requirements.

Why you need a Company Formation Service in Saudi Arabia?

If you are considering starting a business in Saudi Arabia, you may be wondering whether you will need a company formation service. You should consider what type of business you are starting, as well as your goals when starting a business. Starting a small business or one that does not require a significant amount of infrastructure or personnel may not necessitate the use of a business setup service.

On the other hand, if you are starting a larger business or one that will require substantial investment in terms of both time and money, a business set up service may be of great assistance to you. In addition to assisting with all of the necessary paperwork and approvals, a good business set up service can also advise you on how to set up the business in compliance with Saudi Arbian laws and regulations.

How to choose a Company Setup Service?

You will want to take into account a few factors when choosing the best Company formation in KSA.

• A company's experience is the first factor to consider. You should ensure that they have extensive experience of company formation in Saudi. It would also be beneficial if you asked for references from companies that they have worked with in the past.
• It is also important to take into account the price they charge for their services. You should ensure that your money is being spent wisely. It is important to keep in mind that some companies charge more than others, so it is important to make sure that you are receiving what you are paying for.
• Last but not least, you should ensure that the company can meet your specific needs. It is important to recognize that each business is unique and has its own requirements

 

Why Choose Reyson Badger For Setting Up Your Company?

We have an experienced and knowledgeable team that can assist you with the company formation in Saudi Arabia. With our assistance, you will be guided through every step of the process, from choosing the right company name to incorporating your company and obtaining all the necessary licenses and permits.

Our services are offered at competitive rates. Starting a new business can be financially challenging, so our prices are reasonable.

Reyson Badger has a great reputation in Saudi Arabia particularly in facilitating smooth company formation in Saudi. The majority of our clients have been satisfied with our services and have recommended them to others. The fact that we have been able to accomplish this is a testament to the fact that we are a reliable and trustworthy company that can assist you with the setup of your new business in Saudi Arabia.

Company formation in Saudi Arabia is a rewarding experience that can lead to success in this dynamic market. Follow the steps outlined above meticulously, seek expert advice, and embrace the cultural differences of the Kingdom and you will be well on your way to achieving your entrepreneurial dreams.