The Complete Guide to Professional License in Saudi Arabia

As Saudi Arabia continues to implement Vision 2030 and shift toward a diversified, knowledge-based economy, the demand for qualified professionals across various sectors has never been higher.

Whether you’re a local specialist or an international expert, understanding the landscape of the professional license in Saudi Arabia is essential for establishing a legal and respected presence in the Kingdom.

This guide will walk you through what a professional license in Saudi Arabia is, its key requirements, processes, and valuable tips for applicants.

What is a Professional License in Saudi Arabia?

A professional license in Saudi Arabia is an official permit issued by the Ministry of Commerce or relevant regulatory bodies, granting individuals, freelancers, or companies legal authority to practice specific professions within the Kingdom. These professions typically include consulting, law, healthcare, engineering, finance, teaching, and more.

Obtaining this license is mandatory for regulated industries where public safety, expertise, and accountability are closely monitored. Having a professional license in Saudi Arabia ensures compliance with the country’s laws and elevates a practitioner’s credibility in the market.

Why is a Professional License Important?

Legal Compliance: Operating with the appropriate license ensures you or your business are recognized and protected under Saudi law.

Credibility: Clients and employers are more likely to trust licensed professionals.

Market Access: Many opportunities, bids, or government contracts require proof of licensing.

Professional Growth: Licensure is often a prerequisite for advancement or specialized practice.

Who Needs a Professional License in Saudi Arabia?

You need a professional license if you intend to conduct business or work independently in regulated fields such as:

Law and legal consultancy
Accounting and auditing
Architecture and engineering services
Consulting (management, business, technical)
Healthcare (doctors, nurses)
Education (teachers, school administrators)
Translation bureaus

Both Saudi nationals and foreigners (under specific provisions) are eligible to apply, provided they meet the outlined criteria.

Eligibility and Requirements

General Requirements

To obtain a professional license in Saudi Arabia, applicants must fulfill these criteria:

Nationality: The applicant must be a Saudi national, GCC citizen, or, for foreign companies/professionals, meet the foreign investment and partnership regulations.

Educational Qualifications: At least a relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution. For teachers, additional teaching credentials may apply.

Professional Experience: Documented, relevant work experience that matches the field for which the license is sought.

Legal Status: Valid residency status (for expatriates), good conduct certificate, and, in some cases, a local Saudi partner for specific professions.

Supporting Documentation: Passport or national ID, proof of qualifications, experience certificates, official business plan (for companies), and completed application forms.

Specific Rules for Foreign Entities

Non-Saudi professional applicants must have an excellent reputation in their field, contribute technical know-how, and may be asked to train Saudi nationals.

Certain high-profile sectors (e.g., engineering and legal) offer pathways for 100% foreign ownership if strict requirements are met, such as proof of international branches, high share capital, and significant experience.

In joint ventures, a Saudi partner holding a professional license must own at least 25% of the company.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Identify the Relevant Authority: Most professional licenses are regulated by the Ministry of Commerce. Certain professions (health, education, legal) may require additional approvals.

Prepare Documents: Gather all academic, experience, and identification documents. Foreign applicants need certified embassy attestations for some records.

Submit Application Online: Register via the Ministry of Commerce’s service portal and fill in the application with supporting paperwork.

Review and Assessment: Authorities will review qualifications, conduct background checks, and may request an interview.

Pay Fees & Pass Assessments: Pay online fees as required. Some professions require professional assessment or competency tests.

Receive License: Upon approval, the license certificate can be downloaded electronically, which is valid for up to 3 years for most categories.

Renewal and Maintenance

A professional license in Saudi Arabia is typically valid for 2-3 years (up to 5 years for some professions).

Renewal must be requested at least 60 days before the expiry. Late renewals can incur penalties or operational halts.

Staying updated with professional developments and completing any mandatory assessments or continuing education credits might be required for specific industries.

Tips for a Smooth Application

Double-Check Requirements: Each profession may have unique prerequisites. Stay updated with the latest from the Ministry of Commerce and your sector’s regulator.

Partner Strategically: For foreign companies, engaging a reputable Saudi partner can ease the process and help with compliance.

Keep Paperwork Updated: Ensure all certificates and licenses are current, valid, and, where necessary, properly attested.

Consult Experts: Consider working with a business setup consultant, especially if you’re navigating foreign ownership pathways or partnership structures.

Wrapping Up

Securing a professional license in Saudi Arabia unlocks access to a vibrant, growing market for both domestic and international professionals. Whether you’re an individual specialist or launching a global consultancy, the process ensures that only qualified, competent professionals shape the Kingdom’s workforce.

If you are seeking to secure a professional license in Saudi Arabia—whether as a consultant, entrepreneur, or foreign investor—DuVolks provides expert, end-to-end support to make your journey seamless and compliant with local regulations.

Other Blogs

Learn More About Business Setup in Saudi Arabia

Download our brochure and get insights into the cost of licenses, governmental fees for different portals, and more.

Author Bio

Salman Thorop is the Founder of DuVolks, with a deep-rooted presence in Saudi Arabia since 2009. His entrepreneurial journey began in 2014 when he established his business under the SAGIA (now MISA) license. A compliance expert by profession, Salman has developed extensive expertise in Saudi Arabia’s regulatory landscape and specializes in business setup and PRO services. He maintains a keen understanding of government initiatives and policy changes through active engagement with official Saudi government Twitter handles.