Saudi Business Center (SBC)
The Saudi Business Center (SBC) Portal simplifies business setup in Saudi Arabia, allowing companies to manage key processes like AoA attestation and more.
Understanding the SBC Portal
The Saudi Business Center (SBC) Portal is the official government platform for registering a company in Saudi Arabia, covering document submission, commercial registeration management, and Articles of Association (AoA) attestation.
For foreign companies setting up a business in the Kingdom, navigating the SBC correctly is one of the most critical early steps.
AoA Submission and Attestation Process
Required Documents
- MISA License
- Name Reservation Number
- Saudi company capital details
- Saudi company address
- Parent company trade license
- Parent company AoA
- Passport of the General Manager (GM)
- Powers granted to the GM
Step 1: Submit the AoA Application
Log in to the SBC Portal using Nafath authentication. Upload all required documents, and then submit the application for review.
Step 2: Application Review
The SBC team will review the submitted documents and information to ensure accuracy and completeness.
The review process typically takes 2–3 working days, and updates are provided via SMS or through the portal.
Step 3: SBC Approval of the AoA Draft
Once the review is completed, the client must review and approve the AoA draft through the portal before proceeding to attestation.
Step 4: Fee Payment
Once the application is approved, an SMS containing the invoice details will be sent. To complete the payment:
- Log in to the portal.
- Copy the Sadad invoice number.
- Process the payment through the vendor sheet.
Where SBC Applications Get Delayed
Document Inconsistencies
The most common rejection reason. If any detail in your parent company's trade license, AoA, or PoA does not exactly match what is entered in the portal, the application is returned for correction.
Nafath Authentication Barriers
The portal requires Nafath credentials, which are tied to Saudi national ID or verified residency. Foreign General Managers without an established Iqama or with unverified Nafath accounts face access issues that must be resolved before any submission can be made.
AoA Draft Review Errors
Approving the AoA draft without careful review is a costly mistake. Errors in company structure, capital figures, or management authority at this stage require formal amendment later.
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 | | | | |
| Corporate bank account opening | | | | |
| Access to a community of 1000+ 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 | | | | |