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As international trade accelerates and foreign direct investment continues to shape Saudi Arabia’s economic landscape, cross-border transactions are becoming a core element of business operations. Whether involving the payment of royalties, interest, technical service fees, or dividends to foreign entities, one area that consistently demands attention is withholding tax. For businesses operating in or transacting with Saudi-based entities, understanding and managing withholding tax is essential for maintaining compliance, managing costs, and safeguarding transaction efficiency.

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has extended the fine cancellation and penalty exemption initiative until December 31, 2025. This extension provides a further opportunity for businesses to regularise their tax affairs and benefit from significant financial relief.

Saudi Arabia’s business landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by Vision 2030, digital transformation, and shifting global markets. Traditional growth models are no longer sufficient in an era of economic diversification, technological advancements, and changing consumer expectations. To stay competitive, business leaders must embrace innovation, align with national priorities, enhance agility, and integrate sustainability into their strategies. By adapting to these emerging trends, companies can unlock new opportunities and drive long-term success in the Kingdom’s dynamic economic future.

ZATCA on 21 March 2025, announced the 22nd wave of taxpayers for implementing integration (phase 2) of e-invoicing, which now includes taxpayers whose taxable revenues exceeded SAR 1.00 Million during the years 2022, 2023 or 2024.

Financial transparency has become a critical driver of sustainable business growth in an evolving global economy. In Saudi Arabia, where Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy and enhance governance, transparency is no longer an option but a necessity. For businesses, embracing financial openness fosters trust, attracts investment, and strengthens long-term sustainability. This article explores how financial transparency fuels business growth in Saudi Arabia, shaping a more competitive and resilient economic environment.

As Saudi Arabia continues its journey towards economic diversification and tax modernisation, staying ahead of regulatory developments is crucial for businesses operating in the Kingdom. GT Saudi Arabia Tax Insights 2025 offers in-depth analysis and expert commentary on the latest tax changes introduced by the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA), as well as global tax trends that may impact the local business environment.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation redefine how businesses operate in the ever-evolving financial landscape. For Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) in Saudi Arabia, these technological advancements are about efficiency and enabling strategic decision-making, improving compliance, and enhancing overall financial performance. As Vision 2030 drives digital transformation across industries, understanding and leveraging AI in finance has become imperative for CFOs to maintain competitiveness and drive sustainable growth.

Family businesses form the backbone of Saudi Arabia’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and social development. With deep-rooted traditions, strong values, and a long-term perspective, these enterprises have demonstrated remarkable resilience over generations. However, sustaining success in an evolving economic and regulatory landscape requires strategic planning, adaptability, and effective governance. Understanding the key factors contributing to their longevity can provide valuable insights for business leaders and policymakers.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is an ambitious blueprint designed to diversify the Kingdom’s economy, reduce its dependence on oil, and drive sustainable development across multiple sectors. Launched in 2016 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the initiative has introduced sweeping reforms to transform the economic landscape, foster private sector growth, and position Saudi Arabia as a global investment hub. The opportunities for businesses looking to capitalise on this transformative period are vast and unprecedented.

Important development regarding customs refunds under the Proof of Origin regulations in Saudi Arabia.

As Saudi Arabia continues its transformative journey under Vision 2030, capital gains are becoming a crucial topic in the financial landscape. With the Kingdom’s efforts to attract foreign investments, foster entrepreneurship, and enhance market competitiveness, understanding global capital gains tax (CGT) policies is essential.

ZATCA on 28th February 2025, announced the 21st wave of taxpayers for implementing integration (phase 2) of e-invoicing, which now includes taxpayers whose taxable revenues exceeded SAR 1.25 Million during the years 2022, 2023 or 2024.

Our ‘Insights into IFRS 3’ series summarises the key areas of the Standard, highlighting aspects that are more difficult to interpret and revisiting the most relevant features that could impact your business.

Mergers and acquisitions (business combinations) can have a fundamental impact on the acquirer’s operations, resources and strategies. For most entities such transactions are infrequent, and each is unique. IFRS 3 ‘Business Combinations’ contains the requirements for these transactions, which can be challenging in practice.

This year’s report calls for a decisive shift in approach, aligning with the International Women’s Day 2025 theme: "Accelerate Action." We can no longer afford to wait. The missed opportunities for businesses, economies, and the next generation of female leaders are too great. To remain competitive in a rapidly evolving business landscape, mid-market firms must take bold steps now—setting ambitious diversity targets, embedding gender equality into their strategic agendas, and fostering environments where women can thrive at all levels of leadership.

A significant update from the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA). On February 17, 2025, ZATCA issued a tax bulletin outlining the mechanism, requirements, and obligations for applying for VAT refunds on expenses incurred by donors for Public Benefit Projects, as per Article 70(a) of the KSA VAT Implementing Regulations.