License for Scientific and Technical Office in Saudi Arabia
If you’re looking to expand your technical support or research activities in Saudi Arabia, getting the right license is your first step. At Gulf Corporate Services, we’re here to make that process easy for you. Setting up a scientific and technical office in Saudi Arabia allows you to build local connections, offer technical support, and explore new opportunities without engaging in direct sales.
Saudi Arabia is opening its doors to international expertise, and this license enables your company to be part of the Kingdom’s growth while staying fully compliant.
What is a Scientific and Technical Office License?
Think of this license as your gateway to working in Saudi Arabia without selling products directly. A scientific and technical office license lets you:
- Offer product training and after-sales support
- Provide technical advice to clients and partners
- Run workshops or knowledge-sharing sessions
- Support your local distributors with expertise on the ground
- This is perfect for companies that want to build relationships and provide services but aren’t planning to trade or sell directly in Saudi Arabia.
And with Gulf Corporate Services, you won’t have to worry about the paperwork or approvals — we handle it all.
Who Should Apply for This License?
If your business is looking to:
- Provide technical support to Saudi clients
- Represent your head office locally for technical matters
- Offer maintenance, installation, or training services
- Conduct research and help local partners with technical knowledge; this license is exactly what you need.
If you’re unsure whether your company fits, just reach out. We’ll give you honest advice and guide you through the next steps.
Why Set Up a Scientific or Technical Office in Saudi Arabia?
This license offers more than just compliance — it’s a real opportunity to grow your business.
- Stay Close to Clients: Be available for technical support when your customers need you.
- Understand the Market: Get better insights into local needs and opportunities.
- Build Trust: A local office shows your commitment to the market.
- Keep it Simple: Operate legally without setting up a commercial operation.
With Gulf Corporate Services, you’ll have expert support to open your office smoothly and without stress.
How to Get Your License: Simple Steps
Here’s what you’ll typically need to apply:
- Certified copy of your parent company’s commercial registration
- Certified financial statements from your last financial year
- National ID copy (for GCC partners not listed in the ABSHAR system)
- Information about any existing Ministry of Investment licenses (if applicable)
- Good news: Premium residency holders don’t need to submit all documents!
We’ll make sure all your paperwork is correct, certified, and ready to go.
What Documents Do You Need?
We keep the process simple and clear.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
We make sure this license covers your planned activities.
Step 2: Prepare the Documents
We’ll help you gather everything you need — no guesswork, no confusion.
Step 3: Submit the Application
We handle the submission and stay in touch with the Ministry of Investment.
Step 4: Get Approvals
We guide you through any necessary approvals, like environmental clearance.
Step 5: Receive Your License
Once everything’s approved, you’re ready to open your office!
From start to finish, Gulf Corporate Services is with you at every step.
What Does It Cost?
The cost of setting up a scientific and technical office in Saudi Arabia depends on:
- Your company’s structure
- Government and embassy fees
- Any additional processing or approvals
We’ll give you a clear, honest breakdown of costs from the start, so there are no surprises later.
When setting up a scientific and technical office in Saudi Arabia, it’s important to know which authorities are involved and their roles. At Gulf Corporate Services, we help you navigate this clearly to avoid confusion or delays.
SAGIA (Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority)
SAGIA, now part of the Ministry of Investment, is the main authority overseeing foreign investment in Saudi Arabia. If you’re planning to open a scientific and technical office, you’ll need to follow SAGIA’s guidelines carefully.
We make sure your application fully aligns with their requirements so your license approval moves forward smoothly.
Ministry of Commerce and Investment (MOCI)
The Ministry of Commerce and Investment (MOCI) works closely with SAGIA and plays a key role in regulating business activities inside the Kingdom.
Your licensing process depends heavily on MOCI’s regulations. With Gulf Corporate Services handling your paperwork, you can rest assured that every requirement will be met properly.
Licensing Conditions You Need to Meet
To get your scientific and technical office license in Saudi Arabia, you’ll need to satisfy a few important conditions set by these authorities.
We make this simple for you. Our team at Gulf Corporate Services keeps your application in line with all necessary provisions, making sure you’re compliant at every step.
Setting Up the Right Legal Structure
Before applying for the license, it’s essential to establish your company’s legal structure correctly. This is the foundation of your licensing process.
We help you choose the setup that matches your business goals and fits within the Kingdom’s regulatory framework. This way, you start strong and avoid issues down the line
Licensing Requirements For A Scientific And Technical Office In Saudi Arabia
Required Documents
To move forward with your license application, you’ll need to submit a few key documents:
- Commercial Registration: Please provide an officially authenticated copy of the commercial registration for the participating entity. This document must be certified by the Saudi Embassy to ensure its validity.
- Agent or Distributor Authorization: If you’ve appointed a local agent or distributor, kindly include a copy of the authorization letter or agreement that confirms their role.
At Gulf Corporate Services, we’ll help you prepare and certify these documents properly, so everything is submitted correctly the first time — saving you time and avoiding unnecessary delays.
Rules and Restrictions
The role of a scientific and technical office in Saudi Arabia is clear and focused. The office is expected to carry out market feasibility studies related to the company’s activities and regularly prepare reports for its main headquarters. In addition, it must submit an annual summary of its operations to the Ministry of Investment to stay compliant.
However, there are strict boundaries to follow. The office is not allowed to enter into contracts, participate in commercial deals, or make any investments within Saudi Arabia — directly or indirectly. Also, it’s important to note that the office cannot charge fees for training Saudi technicians.
At Gulf Corporate Services, we ensure you fully understand these guidelines so your operations remain compliant and smooth from day one.