ARTICLE
2 April 2025

Foreign Investment In Saudi Arabia

Hamad in association with Youssry Saleh & Partners

Contributor

Hamad in Association with Youssry Saleh & Partners is a large proficient law firm with over 40 years of experience in the Egyptian and Saudi Arabian markets. The firm brings together the expertise and resources of 2 prominent firms solidifying their position as a leading legal provider in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to diversify its economy and promote growth by attracting foreign investment through a transparent and enabling environment.
Saudi Arabia Government, Public Sector

Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to diversify its economy and promote growth by attracting foreign investment through a transparent and enabling environment. These efforts designed to enhance sustainable development and strengthen the Kingdom's position as a leading economic hub in the region.

Foreign Investment Law

Saudi Arabia has established comprehensive regulations to protect the rights of foreign investors, boosting confidence in the market. These regulations stimulate investments across various sectors, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030.

Foreign Direct Investment Survey

To support the private sector, the Ministry of Investment has launched an electronic survey for foreign direct investments. Companies with foreign investments in Saudi Arabia must participate, providing valuable data on investment trends and volumes, which aids in strategic decision-making.

Local Investment in Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom is undergoing significant transformations to diversify its economy and promote sustainable development. Key sectors, such as technology, industry, and renewable energy, are now focal points for local investments, offering exceptional opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.

Government Investments

Government investments play a critical role in the Kingdom's economic transformation by localizing technology and expanding production. Strategic partnerships with global entities and initiatives to attract high-value investments are in line with Vision 2030, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's status as a global investment destination.

Public Investment Fund (PIF)

Established in 1971, the Public Investment Fund has been a national economic driver, contributing to major companies and projects crucial to the economy. In 2015, a pivotal restructuring linked the fund to the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the helm.

The PIF aims to achieve Vision 2030 objectives by maximizing assets, launching new sectors, and building strategic partnerships. Its governance is independent, ensuring transparency and operational efficiency.

Economic and Investment Reports

The PIF produces analytical reports offering insights into the economy and investment sectors. The Reports help investors make informed decisions and identify growth opportunities.

Mega Projects

Mega projects are vital for diversifying the economy away from oil dependency, covering sectors like real estate and infrastructure, thus stimulating economic growth.

Strategic Global Investment Portfolio

The fund aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in the future global economy through long-term investments that establish strategic partnerships. It has developed six integrated investment portfolios, including:

  1. Saudi Companies Investment Portfolio: Focuses on maximizing the value of investments in Saudi companies.
  2. Diversified Global Investments Portfolio: Balances long-term asset allocation through various investment types.
  3. Strategic Global Investments Portfolio: Enhances Saudi Arabia's global influence in future industries.
  4. Saudi Mega Projects Portfolio: Develops large-scale projects to support economic transformation.
  5. Saudi Real Estate and Infrastructure Development Portfolio: Invests in real estate to enhance quality and attract leading developers.
  6. Emerging and Promising Sectors Development Portfolio: Stimulates new sector growth and creates job opportunities.

Public Investment Fund's Aspirations

The PIF is committed to achieving Vision 2030 by expanding investments and enhancing its global standing. It emphasizes innovation and advanced technologies, reinforcing its role in sustainable economic growth.

Investor Laws and Regulations

Saudi Arabia has established laws and policies to create a clear and attractive investment environment, including:

  • Investment principles and policies
  • Bilateral agreements with other countries
  • Terms for using the Ministry of Investment's electronic services

Investor Journey and Services

The Kingdom dedicated to facilitate investment activities by providing guidance on necessary laws and licenses. The “Invest Saudi” initiative promotes investment opportunities in the Kingdom and serves as a primary point of contact for foreign investors.

Saudi Business Center

This entity streamlines the process of starting and operating businesses, consolidating all government services into one platform. The time required to start a business has significantly decreased, enhancing the private sector's growth.

National Competitiveness Center

Founded in 2019, this center aims to improve the competitive environment in Saudi Arabia. It identifies obstacles and proposes solutions to enhance the business landscape, promoting sustainability and inclusivity.

Private Sector Feedback Platform

This platform facilitates interaction between the private sector and government entities by gathering feedback on challenges faced by businesses, encouraging collaboration.

Innovation Centers

These centers focus on emerging technologies and support entrepreneurs and SMEs throughout their project development stages.

Bankruptcy Law

The Kingdom has adopted bankruptcy legislation to help debtors reorganize their finances while protecting creditor rights, establishing a Bankruptcy Committee to improve awareness and efficiency.

Anti-Commercial Concealment Program

Saudi Arabia has implemented initiatives to combat commercial concealment, which refers to unauthorized foreign investment activities. The program raises awareness and establishes regulations for violators.

Saudi Exchange (Tadawul)

Tadawul is the primary platform for trading securities, providing diverse investment opportunities for both local and international investors. The Qualified Foreign Investor Program allows foreign investors direct access to the market.

Investor Services

A range of electronic services is available to streamline investment processes, including:

  • Renewal of residency for investors with canceled licenses
  • Issuance of commercial registrations
  • Purchase of investment opportunity packages

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia is actively fostering an attractive investment environment through various initiatives and reforms, positioning itself as a global leader in economic growth and diversification. By embracing these changes, the Kingdom aims to enhance its competitiveness and create a sustainable future for all its citizens.

This article offers a general overview of the subject matter and is not a substitute for legal advice. For guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, professional consultation is recommended.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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