Register A Company In Riyadh – Key Documents And Requirements

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is rapidly emerging as a regional hub for international trade, innovation, and investment. With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 driving economic transformation, more local and foreign investors are exploring business opportunities in the Kingdom.

If you’re planning to start a company in Riyadh, understanding the legal framework, required documentation, and registration process is crucial. In this blog, we will walk you through the essential documents and procedures needed to register a company in Riyadh.

Looking for expert assistance? HATEN is a trusted provider of comprehensive company setup services in Saudi Arabia. From trade name reservation to MISA licensing and commercial registration, HATEN ensures a seamless business registration experience tailored to your needs.

Why Start a Business in Riyadh?

Riyadh offers a range of compelling advantages for entrepreneurs:

• Strategic Location: Access to Gulf markets and international connectivity.
• Investor-Friendly Policies: Government incentives and simplified procedures.
• 100% Foreign Ownership: Enabled under the MISA license.
• Stable Economic Environment: Supported by Vision 2030 reforms.

These factors make Riyadh an ideal destination for business setup.

Legal Structures Available for Businesses in Riyadh

Choosing the right business entity is the first step:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Most common and flexible.
• Joint Stock Company: Suitable for larger businesses with shareholders.
• Branch of a Foreign Company: Ideal for global expansion.
• Sole Proprietorship: Simplest form but limited to Saudi nationals.

Each structure has different requirements for ownership, liability, and capital.

Step-by-Step Guide to Register a Company in Riyadh

1. Choose a Legal Structure

Select a business type based on your goals and capital.

2. Reserve a Trade Name

Apply for a unique trade name through the Ministry of Commerce (MoC) portal.

3. Apply for Investment License (MISA)

Foreign investors need to obtain an investment license from the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA).

4. Draft and Notarize the MoA and AoA

Create and notarize the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA).

5. Deposit Capital in a Commercial Bank

Open a Saudi bank account and deposit the required share capital.

6. Obtain Commercial Registration Certificate (CR)

Submit all documents to MoC to receive the Commercial Registration (CR).

7. Register with Tax and Municipality Authorities

Obtain necessary tax IDs and municipality licenses based on your business activity.

Key Documents Required for Company Registration

Personal and Identification Documents

• Valid passport copies of all shareholders and directors
• National ID or Iqama (if applicable)
• Proof of residence/address

Corporate and Legal Documents

• Memorandum of Association (MoA)
• Articles of Association (AoA)
• Certified copy of trade name registration
• Board resolution or power of attorney (if required)

Financial and Licensing Documents

• Investment License from MISA (for foreign companies)
• Capital deposit certificate from a Saudi bank
• Municipality license

Ensure all documents are attested and translated into Arabic.

Estimated Costs and Timeline

Item	Estimated Cost (SAR)	Timeframe
MISA License	2,000 – 10,000	2-3 weeks
Trade Name Registration	1,000	1 week
Legal Translation & Notarization	3,000 – 5,000	1 week
Commercial Registration (CR)	1,200	1 week
Total Estimated Time	–	4-6 weeks

Note: Costs may vary depending on the business activity and consultant fees.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Document Attestation: Work with authorized agents to manage MOFA and embassy attestations.
• Arabic Language Requirements: Use certified translation services.
• Name Approval Delays: Submit multiple trade name options.
• Banking Issues: Choose a bank familiar with company formations.

Hiring a local business consultant can streamline these processes significantly.

FAQs on Registering a Company in Riyadh

Setting up a company in Riyadh can be a smooth and rewarding process if you follow the legal requirements and prepare the correct documents. With the right guidance and a strategic plan, you can leverage Saudi Arabia’s booming economy and investor-friendly ecosystem.