The rise of foreign entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia reflects Vision 2030’s success in turning ambition into opportunity. In Q1 2025 alone, FDI surged 44 percent to SAR 22.2 billion, while Saudi startups secured US $750 million in funding across nearly 180 deals. With over 154,000 new company registrations in the same period and streamlined visa options for investors, the Kingdom is redefining what it means to invest in Saudi Arabia in 2025 — making it one of the fastest-growing destinations for global business.
Why is Saudi Arabia becoming a Global Magnet for Entrepreneurs and Investors?
Saudi Arabia’s rise as a leading destination for global business is the result of deliberate, well-coordinated reforms. Over the past few years, the Kingdom has created a stable and transparent environment where entrepreneurs and investors can confidently grow. Strategic public investment has been paired with business-friendly policies designed to reduce bureaucracy, simplify licensing, and offer long-term tax advantages.
A standout initiative is the Regional Headquarters (RHQ) Program, which offers 0% corporate and withholding tax for 30 years to international companies establishing their regional base in Saudi Arabia. This incentive has positioned Riyadh as a natural choice for global firms seeking a regional footprint in the Middle East.
At the same time, the Vision 2030 strategy continues to guide economic diversification. By investing heavily in digital infrastructure, logistics, and manufacturing, the government is creating a modern ecosystem that attracts innovation and fosters sustainable growth. Together, these policies make Saudi Arabia not just open for business—but ready for the future of global entrepreneurship.
What New Sectors are Opening up for Foreign Investors and Startup Founders in Saudi Arabia?
The range of opportunities in Saudi Arabia has expanded far beyond energy. As Vision 2030 unfolds, new sectors are thriving—particularly tourism and entertainment, renewable energy, technology, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and mining. Each of these industries benefits from dedicated national programs, investment incentives, and government-backed funding channels designed to attract international participation.
The startup ecosystem is also gaining momentum. According to Saudi Venture Capital (SVC), venture funding reached around US $750 million across 178 deals in 2024, representing over 30 percent of all MENA venture transactions. This growth reflects both the maturity of the local investment landscape and the country’s success in cultivating entrepreneurship through initiatives such as Monsha’at and the Saudi Venture Capital Company.
With Riyadh now ranked among the top emerging startup cities globally, Saudi Arabia has proven it can offer more than financial capital—it offers market access, infrastructure, and an enabling environment that supports long-term business success.
How Easy is it for a Foreign Entrepreneur to Start a Business and Obtain the Right Visa in Saudi Arabia?
Setting up a company in Saudi Arabia has become significantly easier thanks to a modernized digital framework. Through Invest Saudi, entrepreneurs can now manage everything from license applications to document submission in one integrated portal. The process is faster, clearer, and more predictable than ever before.
Recent regulatory updates under the 2025 Investment Law have further simplified entry requirements by removing outdated licensing obligations and streamlining investor reviews. This change ensures that qualified foreign businesses can establish operations with fewer administrative steps while still maintaining regulatory integrity.
Travel procedures have also been refined. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has introduced standardized Business Visit Visas through its e-services platform, allowing approval turnaround times as quick as three business days. These improvements make it easier for entrepreneurs to visit, assess opportunities, and initiate partnerships before formal incorporation.
Which Visa Options are Available for Entrepreneurs Planning to Establish a Business in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia offers several visa categories tailored to meet different stages of business development and investor needs:
1. Investor Visa
Designed for company founders, shareholders, or directors of Saudi-registered entities, the Investor Visa provides residence and work rights linked directly to the organization’s Commercial Registration (CR). Applicants typically provide proof of investment and business operations to qualify.
2. Business Visit Visa
Ideal for short-term visits to explore opportunities, hold meetings, or sign agreements. The visa requires a MOFA-approved invitation from a registered Saudi entity and is commonly used for early-stage market engagement.
3. Temporary Work Visa
A flexible option for project-based assignments processed through the Qiwa platform. It allows professionals to work in Saudi Arabia for up to three months, extendable once—perfect for founders managing short-term projects or technical setups.
4. Premium Residency (Saudi Green Card)
Introduced in 2024 and expanded in 2025, the Premium Residency program offers a sponsor-free, long-term residence option for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals. It grants full ownership rights, the ability to sponsor family members, and greater financial autonomy—making it ideal for those planning a lasting presence in the Kingdom.
Typical Progression for New Entrants
Begin with a Business Visit Visa to explore opportunities → establish your Commercial Registration (CR) → shift to an Investor Visa for ongoing operations → use Temporary Work Visas for short-term specialists → transition to Premium Residency for long-term stability and investment flexibility.
Saudi Arabia’s pro-investment framework, backed by its Vision 2030 transformation, continues to create an environment where international businesses can expand with confidence. The Kingdom’s streamlined licensing systems, modern regulatory landscape, and comprehensive visa pathways offer unparalleled access to one of the fastest-growing economies in the region.
As an established corporate immigration and business setup advisory in Riyadh, Northman & Sterling supports global companies in navigating these processes with precision, compliance, and speed. Our on-the-ground expertise ensures investors experience a smooth transition from planning to full operational readiness, without unnecessary delays or regulatory uncertainty.
Partnering with us means gaining a trusted extension of your global mobility team — one that understands both the business ambitions of multinational enterprises and the nuances of Saudi regulation.
With Northman & Sterling, you gain more than assistance — you gain assurance.
