Corporate Tax in Saudi Arabia
Ensures your business adheres to Saudi Arabian tax laws, maximizing tax benefits and minimizing liabilities.
corporate tax in saudi
Saudi Arabia imposes corporate tax on the profits of resident and non-resident companies conducting business within the Kingdom. The tax system is administered by the General Authority of Zakat and Tax (GAZT), and it encompasses various regulations and compliance requirements. Understanding corporate tax obligations is essential for businesses to operate efficiently and avoid penalties. Vizttax provides expert services to help you navigate corporate tax regulations and ensure compliance.
Overview of Corporate Tax in Saudi Arabia
Corporate Tax Rate:
- Standard Rate: The corporate tax rate in Saudi Arabia is 20% on the taxable income of non-Saudi or foreign entities.
- Zakat: Saudi and GCC nationals, as well as companies wholly owned by these nationals, are subject to Zakat at a rate of 2.5% of the Zakat base.
Taxable Entities:
- Foreign Companies: Corporate tax applies to the income of foreign companies and non-Saudi shareholders in Saudi companies.
- Permanent Establishments: Income earned by foreign companies through permanent establishments in Saudi Arabia is subject to corporate tax.
- Mixed Companies: Companies with both Saudi and non-Saudi shareholders are subject to corporate tax on the non-Saudi portion and Zakat on the Saudi portion.
Taxable Income:
- Inclusions: Taxable income includes revenue from business activities, capital gains, interest, royalties, and rental income.
- Deductions: Allowable deductions include business expenses, depreciation, and certain provisions.
Corporate Tax Compliance Requirements
1. Registration
- Description: Companies must register with GAZT for corporate tax purposes.
- Process: Submit an application online through the GAZT portal, providing necessary business details.
2. Tax Filing
- Frequency: Annual corporate tax returns must be filed within 120 days following the end of the fiscal year.
- Submission: File returns electronically through the GAZT portal, detailing income, expenses, and tax calculations.
3. Tax Payment
- Due Date: Corporate tax payments are due within 120 days following the end of the fiscal year.
- Methods: Payments can be made through the GAZT portal or approved banks.
4. Withholding Tax
- Description: Withholding tax applies to certain payments made to non-residents, including dividends, royalties, and technical service fees.
- Rates: The withholding tax rate is generally 5% for dividends, 15% for royalties, and 20% for technical service fees.
5. Transfer Pricing
- Description: Saudi Arabia has implemented transfer pricing regulations in line with OECD guidelines.
- Requirements: Companies must maintain transfer pricing documentation and file Country-by-Country (CbC) reports if applicable.
6. Record Keeping
- Description: Maintain accurate and detailed records of all financial transactions for at least 10 years.
- Requirements: Records must include invoices, receipts, contracts, and other relevant financial documents.
7. Tax Audits and Inspections
- Description: GAZT conducts audits and inspections to ensure compliance with corporate tax regulations.
- Requirements: Be prepared for audits by maintaining accurate records and complying with tax regulations.
How Vizttax Can Help
Vizttax offers comprehensive corporate tax services to help your business comply with Saudi Arabia’s tax regulations and optimize tax liabilities.
1. Tax Registration
- Assistance: Helping you with the corporate tax registration process, including preparing and submitting the application.
- Advisory: Advising on the requirements and implications of tax registration.
2. Tax Filing and Payments
- Preparation: Preparing accurate corporate tax returns based on your financial records.
- Filing: Filing corporate tax returns on your behalf, ensuring timely submission and payment.
- Payment Management: Assisting with tax payment processing and ensuring timely payments.
3. Withholding Tax Compliance
- Calculation: Calculating withholding tax on relevant payments to non-residents.
- Reporting: Ensuring accurate reporting and payment of withholding taxes.
4. Transfer Pricing Advisory
- Documentation: Preparing and maintaining transfer pricing documentation in compliance with regulations.
- Reporting: Assisting with the preparation and filing of CbC reports.
5. Record Keeping and Compliance
- Record Maintenance: Helping you maintain detailed and accurate records of all tax-related transactions.
- Audit Support: Providing support during tax audits and inspections, including preparation and representation.
6. Tax Advisory
- Consultation: Offering expert advice on corporate tax-related matters, including deductions, exemptions, and cross-border transactions.
- Planning: Assisting with tax planning and optimization strategies to minimize tax liabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
The corporate tax rate is 20% on the taxable income of non-Saudi or foreign entities.
Saudi and GCC nationals, as well as companies wholly owned by these nationals, are subject to Zakat at a rate of 2.5% of the Zakat base.
Corporate tax returns must be filed annually, within 120 days following the end of the fiscal year.
Yes, we provide customized financial reports to help you track your financial position and make informed decisions tailored to your business goals.
Vizttax provides services including tax registration, filing, payment management, withholding tax compliance, transfer pricing advisory, record keeping, audit support, and tax advisory to ensure full compliance with corporate tax regulations.
CONCLUSION:

Corporate tax compliance is a critical aspect of doing business in Saudi Arabia. With the right guidance and support, your business can navigate tax regulations efficiently and effectively. Vizttax is dedicated to helping you understand and meet your corporate tax obligations, ensuring your business remains compliant and optimized. Contact us today to learn more about our corporate tax services and how we can support your business in Saudi Arabia.
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