Saudi commercial records surge 68% in 20 months

By the end of Q3 of 2024, the number of commercial records had risen to 389,413. File
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RIYADH: ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ has seen a remarkable 68 percent growth in commercial records over the 20 months since the implementation of its New Companies Law, according to a recent government report.

The law, which took effect on Jan. 19, 2023, introduced significant reforms aimed at simplifying business processes and fostering a more dynamic corporate environment. By the end of the third quarter of 2024, the number of commercial records had risen to 389,413, up from 230,762 before the law’s introduction, the Ministry of Commerce reported.

Among the law’s key innovations are streamlined processes for setting up joint-stock companies, the ability for shareholders to participate remotely, and improved financing options, including allowing limited liability companies to issue debt instruments. These changes have reshaped the corporate landscape by simplifying company formation and offering flexible financing avenues.

The law also encourages broader ownership by easing the purchase of shares and equity stakes. Notably, it introduces a simplified joint-stock company model and includes provisions for non-profit organizations. Other reforms include allowing sole proprietorships to transition into any company type, modernizing rules for corporate mergers and transformations, and permitting company splits.

Small and micro enterprises are exempt from the requirement of an external auditor, reducing their compliance burdens. Additionally, the law enhances digital services, enabling remote shareholder meetings and decision-making, and removes restrictions across all stages of company formation, operation, and exit.

The reforms also introduce a family charter to govern family-owned businesses and simplify the process for foreign companies to operate in the Kingdom, creating a more flexible and investor-friendly environment.

In its September report, the International Monetary Fund praised the reforms for improving access to financing, reducing fees, and strengthening governance, which has helped attract record levels of foreign investment. The IMF also noted that the reforms have contributed to the growth of non-oil sectors and increased employment.

The IMF further highlighted that the rise in non-oil revenues underscores the effectiveness of these reforms, which have also led to better compliance and alignment of customs procedures with international best practices.

In addition, in September, ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ approved new laws related to commercial registration and trade names, further streamlining business operations and improving the overall business environment.

These changes were approved at a Cabinet session in Riyadh on Sept. 17, chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.