Saudi Investment Licenses Surge 252% in Q2 2026

Saudi Living reports that the number of investment licenses issued by the Ministry of Investment reached 9,018 in the second quarter of 2026, a jump of 252% compared with the 2,561 licenses recorded in the same quarter of 2025. The figure marks a fresh high in a steady upward trend for foreign investor registrations in the Kingdom.

The quarterly picture shows sustained growth: licenses climbed from 2,561 in Q2 2025 to 6,701 in Q3 2025, 8,379 in Q4 2025, then 7,627 in Q1 2026, before reaching 9,018 in Q2 2026. Most applications are handled through the Ministry of Investment online portal and the Invest in Saudi platform.

Lower costs and faster processing

A key factor behind the momentum is the easing of headline licensing costs in 2026. The historical issue fee of SAR 12,000 and the multi-year renewal fee of up to SAR 62,000 are now widely reported as suspended or waived for most investors. Some guidance still cites older amounts, so applicants are advised to confirm current fees directly with the Ministry of Investment.

With the waivers in place, the main government-side cash costs for many foreign investors are Commercial Registration fees of around SAR 1,200 and Chamber of Commerce membership commonly ranging from roughly SAR 1,500 to SAR 10,000 Where fees still apply, payment is made through SADAD using the Ministry of Investment biller code.

A standard investment license is typically processed within about 3 to 10 business days of a complete application, and registration is generally issued for up to five years with an annual confirmation of data that is usually fee-free but still required. For residents and business owners weighing new ventures, the numbers point to a more accessible and faster setup environment in line with the Kingdom's economic goals.

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