Entrepreneurial License in Saudi Arabia
Learn how to set up your innovation-driven startup in Saudi Arabia with the Entrepreneurial License. With full foreign ownership, minimal capital, and fast-track incorporation with AstroLabs.
Entrepreneurial License in Saudi Arabia - Essential Information
Incentives for Entrepreneurial License Holders in KSA
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in creating a thriving startup ecosystem, and the Entrepreneurial License is a key part of that strategy. As a holder of this license, your startup may gain access to a wide range of financial, operational, and ecosystem incentives designed to accelerate your growth.
1. Government-Backed Support Programs
Eligible startups can tap into programs run by: Monsha’at (SME Authority): Access funding, mentorship, and specialized advisory services. Public Investment Fund (PIF) and affiliated accelerators: Strategic partnerships and co-investment opportunities.
2. Reduced Capital & Compliance Requirements
Unlike traditional licenses, this license eliminates the need for: 1. Corporate shareholders or local partners 2. High paid-up capital 3. Yearly audits or complex reporting
3. Access to Grants & Funding
Qualifying startups may receive: 1. Government-backed seed funding or matching grants 2. Equity-free grants from local accelerators 3. Preferential eligibility for VC programs and competitions
4. Subsidized Business Services
Entrepreneurial License holders can benefit from: 1. Reduced-cost office space in government-supported tech parks and co-working hubs 2. Discounted banking and telecom services through startup partnerships
5. Preferential Access to Tenders & Pilots
1. Early-stage access to government innovation pilots 2. Priority participation in smart city, healthtech, and digital transformation projects 3. Eligibility to join government-led procurement programs targeting startups
Company Formation in Saudi Arabia: Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Prepare Company Documents
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA and AoA)
- Audited financial statements
- Board resolution to expand into Saudi Arabia
Step 2: Obtain MISA License
Step 3: Register with Government Entities
- Ministry of Commerce (MoC) - for commercial registration
- Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority - for tax compliance
- General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI)
- Chamber of Commerce
- Saudi Post - to obtain a national address
Step 4: National Address Management:
Step 5: Appoint a General Manager and Obtain an Iqama
- Muqeem: employee sponsorship management
- Absher: government services portal
- Qiwa: workforce management
Step 6: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Step 7: Hire and Issue Visas
AstroLabs Advantage
| Offering | AstroLabs | Corporate Services Companies offering PRO & GRO | Law Firms | In-House |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40+ on-ground local team of experts |  |  | | |
| Government portal management and compliance support | | | | |
| Full management of your company licenses and certificates | | | | |
| Management of registered employees across the employee journey, from hiring to ongoing management | | | | |
| Full suite of support: PRO, GRO, HRs support and access to a pool of Saudi talent | | | | |
| National Address Registration with varied coworking and private office locations | | | | |
| Seamlessly manage GRO services online using a digital platform | | | | |
| Corporare bank account opening | | | | |
| Access to a community of 700+ high-growth businesses in Saudi Arabia | | | | |
| Extended media and exposure support through press releases, social media coverage and articles | | | | |
| Opportunity-matchmaking with potential partners in governmental entities and corporates | | | | |
| Access to global and regional events such as BIBAN, LEAP, Seamless, etc | | | | |