Services License

A definition of the service for issuing a service investment license
The service of issuing a service investment license is one of the basic services provided through the Saudi Ministry of Investment. It aims to enable foreign or GCC investors to obtain an official license that allows them to legally and formally practice service activities within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This license is considered the main gateway for an investor who wishes to establish a company or branch that provides various services, such as: management consulting, logistics services, information technology, training, marketing, financial services, and other permitted service activities.


The application is submitted electronically, where the investor must fulfill all regulatory requirements, such as:


Filling out the service investment license application form.
Providing the investor's ID or passport (for individuals) or the commercial registration of the parent company (for foreign companies).
Attaching the certified financial statements of the parent company (in the case of foreign companies).
Providing proof of qualifications and previous experience in the service activity field.
Paying the prescribed regulatory fees.


The importance of the service for issuing a service investment license


Opening the door to foreign and GCC investment in the vital service sector in Saudi Arabia.
Enabling foreign companies to legally practice their service activities through accredited branches.
Enhancing economic diversification by attracting investments in innovative service fields that support Saudi Vision 2030.
Creating new job opportunities by attracting international expertise in modern service fields such as technical and financial consulting.
Raising the efficiency of the local market by introducing innovative and diverse services that support various sectors.
Facilitating entry into strategic partnerships with local companies or government institutions.
Enhancing legal confidence with banks and government agencies by granting the investor an official license that confirms their commitment to regulations.


Difficulties related to completing or issuing a service investment license
The multiplicity of requirements and documents, such as the need to certify financial statements or authenticate documents from embassies and chambers of commerce.
The need to translate and certify foreign documents to be acceptable to the Ministry of Investment.
Special conditions for some service activities, such as requiring professional certificates or additional licenses from specialized ministries (Health, Finance, Education, etc.).
The long review period if there are deficiencies or ambiguities in the documents.
The possibility of the application being rejected if the activity is not listed among the activities permitted for foreign investment.
Subsequent operational challenges such as the requirement for a minimum capital in some activities, or the necessity of employing a specific number of Saudi nationals according to Saudization ratios.