What are the licensing requirements for foreign law firms in Saudi Arabia?
14 March 2023
Mohamed Firas Badawi
A guide for foreign law firms expanding its footprint in Saudi Arabia
Foreign law
firms must have a distinguished international reputation in the legal
profession. Foreign law firms must have been established for at least 10
years. The firms must have representation or partnerships in at least 3
countries or 5 regions within one country.
They must name
at least 2 partners committed to residing in Saudi Arabia for at least 180 days
per year. Foreign law firms must pay the license fee. The firms must not have a
final judgment against them for a crime against honor or trust or a serious
professional violation within the past 5 years.
Licensing
Procedures
License
applications for foreign law firms must be submitted electronically through the
Najiz.sa portal. Required documents include authorization for the legal
representative, licensing documents for the foreign law firm and its partners,
and an acknowledgment of no prior judgments or decisions against them.
Foreign law
firms must obtain a license from the competent authority to grant licenses to
foreign investment in KSA. Before practicing in Saudi Arabia, foreign
law firms must be registered with the Saudi Bar Association and establish a
headquarters for practicing the profession.
Licensing duration
& Activities allowed
The license
duration is five years, renewable for another period or periods. Renewal
applications must be submitted at least 90 days before the license expiry date.
Activities
allowed under the license include consulting in matters related to
international and non-Saudi regulations, alternative dispute services, and
specialized project or legislation-related consulting.
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