Business Setup in Saudi Arabia - TTE Gulf Management Consultancy

Saudi Arabia has become one of the most attractive destinations for foreign companies looking to expand in the Middle East. With ambitious national transformation plans, strong government investments and major global events on the horizon, the Kingdom offers exceptional opportunities across multiple sectors.

From 100% foreign ownership in many activities to streamlined licensing processes, Saudi Arabia is shifting toward a more business-friendly ecosystem and companies worldwide are taking notice.

Saudi Arabia’s Transformation: What Is Driving the Growth?

Saudi Arabia’s rapid evolution is shaped by Vision 2030, the national strategy designed to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil. Within this framework, several major initiatives and sectors are receiving unprecedented investment.

Key Transformation Areas:

1. Gigaprojects and Smart Cities

• NEOM – A USD 500+ billion futuristic region including The Line, Oxagon, Trojena https://www.expo2030riyadh.sa/en/

• Qiddiya – Entertainment, gaming and sports hub https://qiddiya.com/

• The Red Sea Global & AMAALA – Ultra-luxury tourism and hospitality projects https://www.redseaglobal.com/en/
• Diriyah Gate – Cultural and historical development with premium real estate and tourism https://www.diriyah.sa/en

These projects alone represent some of the world’s largest development investments.

2. Diversification Beyond Oil

Saudi Arabia is rapidly expanding into:
• Technology & AI
• Advanced manufacturing
• Renewable energy & hydrogen
• Healthcare & life sciences
• Financial services
• Logistics & transport hubs

Billions are being invested to attract companies and build modern infrastructure.

3. Regulatory Reforms & Business-Friendly Policies

• 100% foreign ownership available in many sectors
• Faster licensing through MISA
• Incentives for international companies to relocate regional HQs to Riyadh
• Strengthened labour and corporate governance laws

4. Global Events Boosting Demand Across Sectors

Saudi Arabia is preparing to host several world-class events, including:
• Expo 2030 – Riyadh
• FIFA World Cup 2034 – hosted across the Kingdom
• Major sports events: Formula 1, boxing, e-sports, tennis, golf
• Cultural festivals such as Riyadh Season & Jeddah Season

These events drive growth in tourism, infrastructure, hospitality, construction, entertainment and tech.

Together, these transformation drivers create sustained business opportunities for international companies entering the Kingdom.

Understanding the Business Setup Landscape in Saudi Arabia

Setting up a company in Saudi Arabia requires navigating several regulatory frameworks. While opportunities are significant, the process can be complex without proper guidance.

Key elements include:

• Choosing the right company structure
• Obtaining an investment license from MISA
• Registering with the Ministry of Commerce and ZATCA
• Opening a corporate bank account
• Complying with visa and Saudization requirements
• Securing a legal office address

Each step is essential for establishing operations correctly and efficiently.

Why Companies Need Local Support

Saudi Arabia is a dynamic market, but also one where:
• Regulations evolve quickly
• Sector approvals vary
• Compliance requirements are strict
• Cultural understanding matters
• Hiring and Saudization require strategic planning

Global market-entry studies show that over 60% of companies face delays or rejections when expanding without local guidance. Partnering with experts dramatically reduces risk and accelerates the entire setup process.

TTE Gulf: Your Partner for Business Setup in Saudi Arabia

With a strong presence in Riyadh and extensive regional experience, TTE Gulf supports companies at every step of their entry and growth in Saudi Arabia.

Our services include: