Frequently asked questions about Saudi Arabia

Yes. Since Vision 2030, 100% foreign ownership is permitted in virtually all sectors, with no mandatory Saudi partner. You usually set up an LLC via a MISA investment licence.

Government fees run indicatively between SAR 5,000 and 17,000 for the first year. MISA licence fees are currently suspended, but with an undertaking to pay. Budget also for a mandatory office, capital to be evidenced, visas and advice. A realistic setup often lands around SAR 60,000 to 95,000 for the first year. Calculate your own situation with the cost calculator.

Realistically two to three months until you are operational. The MISA licence can be issued within a few working days, but the corporate bank account is almost always the slowest step due to strict compliance.

Yes. Since the new law took effect on 22 January 2026, foreigners can own property within designated zones. The rules differ per city, with separate frameworks for Riyadh, Jeddah and the holy cities.

Since the implementing regulations of 23 June 2026, Muslims, including those living outside Saudi Arabia, and Saudi companies with foreign ownership can acquire property in specifically designated zones in Makkah and Madinah. Non-Muslims are excluded and it never applies to the whole city.

Yes, via the Real Estate Owner Residency, a category of the Saudi Premium Residency. You need residential property worth at least SAR 4 million (around 1 million euro), fully developed and mortgage-free, independently valued via Taqeem.

The standard corporate income tax is 20%. There is no personal income tax and VAT is 15%. In three Special Economic Zones (King Abdullah Economic City, Ras Al-Khair and Jazan) a rate of 5% applies for up to 20 years, provided you have genuine, value-adding activity there.

No. In most sectors a Saudi partner is no longer required and you can be a full foreign owner. Some regulated activities have their own requirements, so always check the specific activity code.

Expect around 7% in government costs. On top of the regular 5% transfer tax (RETT), the separate fee for non-Saudis has been set at 2% for Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah under the implementing regulations. A non-resident buyer first needs an approved digital identity, a Saudi bank account in their own name and a linked Saudi mobile number. All transactions run through the official REGA platform Saudi Properties.

Naar Saudi is a Dutch consultancy, based in The Hague, specialised in guiding Dutch entrepreneurs who want to establish a company or buy property in Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf. The focus is on knowledge, structure and a strong local network.