Saudi Arabia is investing over $3 trillion across sectors to transform its economy by 2030. For UK businesses, the window of opportunity is wide open.
This blog breaks down what UK-based companies must consider when starting a business in Saudi Arabia, from regulatory complexities to sector-specific opportunities under Vision 2030.
With over 15 years of on-ground expertise and trusted by global brands like Amazon and Best Western, Peninsula has helped companies navigate every step of the Saudi market entry journey.
Read on to understand how your UK business can strategically align with Saudi Arabia’s transformation and leverage your competitive advantage.
Starting a business in Saudi Arabia involves up to 20 procedural steps and interaction with multiple regulatory bodies, including the Ministry of Investment (MISA), Ministry of Commerce, and ZATCA. While reforms have improved transparency, the environment remains complex.
In December 2022, Saudi Arabia joined the Hague Apostille Convention. This is a game-changer for UK businesses. Documents like Articles of Association, Powers of Attorney, and Incorporation Certificates can now be legalised with a single Apostille stamp, bypassing embassy attestation.
Why this matters: It reduces setup friction, speeds up timelines, and lowers costs, giving UK companies a practical edge over competitors from non-member countries.
Vision 2030 allocates over £65 billion to revolutionise healthcare. The aim? A digitised, privatised healthcare system with 65% private sector participation.
UK Edge: The UK's globally recognised healthtech sector excels in AI diagnostics, digital therapeutics, and telehealth platforms—all in high demand in Saudi Arabia.
Peninsula helps healthtech firms with everything from IP protection in the Kingdom to MISA licensing.
Saudi Arabia is reinventing its financial landscape to become a global capital market hub. Riyadh is positioning itself as the new DIFC.
UK Edge: London remains a global centre for asset management, sustainable finance, and fintech innovation. UK firms are well-placed to partner with Saudi entities in:
The London Stock Exchange Group is already collaborating with Saudi Arabia to support capital market growth. Peninsula can facilitate regulatory approval for UK finance firms entering the market.
NEOM, Qiddiya, the Red Sea Project—Saudi Arabia's infrastructure push is unprecedented. The Kingdom is investing over $1 trillion in infrastructure alone.
UK Edge: From civil engineering to green building consultancy, UK firms have a strong global footprint.
Peninsula ensures your project consultancy or EPC firm meets complex compliance rules, especially around Saudization and local content.
Vision 2030 calls for a dramatic overhaul in education and vocational training.
UK Edge: British institutions have global cachet. From Cambridge Assessment to vocational skills providers like City & Guilds, UK firms are uniquely positioned to support:
Peninsula supports these firms in acquiring appropriate educational licences and forging MOUs with local institutions.
Saudi Arabia aims to source 50% of its energy from renewables by 2030.
UK Edge: As a global leader in offshore wind, solar innovation, and hydrogen technology, the UK can:
Peninsula helps clean tech companies align with Saudi regulatory frameworks and secure green project certifications.
Saudi Arabia is nurturing its cultural economy with initiatives like the Saudi 100 Brands and Red Sea Film Festival.
UK Edge: London is a world capital for fashion, film, and design. UK creatives can find opportunities in:
Peninsula advises creative businesses on IP protection, talent visas, and media licensing.
Saudi Arabia is evolving fast, but entering the market requires more than strategy. It requires stewardship. At Peninsula, we don’t just register companies. We translate your vision into Saudi success, ensuring you stay compliant and competitive every step of the way.
Peninsula offers a free initial consultation for UK-based companies evaluating expansion into Saudi Arabia. Discover how we can help simplify your business setup in Saudi Arabia, reduce costs, and accelerate your go-to-market journey.
Alistair Paine brings 15 years of dedicated experience in Saudi market entry, guiding Fortune 500 companies and innovative scale-ups through successful establishment in the Kingdom. His expertise in Saudi company formation, licensing and market entry strategy, positions him as a leading authority and consultant in international business expansion to Saudi Arabia.
Schedule a free consultation with Alistair and the Peninsula team to understand which market entry strategy is best suited to your business setup in Saudi Arabia.
Email: Alistair@peninsulacs.com
