TME LEGAL | DUBAI – RECHT KLAR

Saudi Arabia Sees Surge in Investment Deals – Time to Set Up Your Business in the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia Sees Surge in Investment Deals - Time to Set Up Your Business in the Kingdom


Saudi Arabia is drawing in a diverse group of funding partners, leading to over 53 percent of investment deals being finalized in the first quarter of 2024. The Ministry of Investment’s latest report reveals that sports deals made up 19 percent of the 64 total deals during this period. Investors from the US and the UK were the most active, with 11 and 5 deals, respectively.


Saudi Arabia’s strategic location and strong economy continue to attract foreign investors, especially in technology and sports. The country leads in technology spending in the Middle East and North Africa, with spending growing every year.


Funding partners in Saudi Arabia include government entities, large investment funds, and venture capitalists. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy aims to diversify the economy, create private-sector jobs, and ensure a sustainable future. This strategy has made the Saudi market especially attractive for sports investments.


In the first quarter, the number of investment licenses issued reached 3,157, a 93 percent increase from the same period last year. The construction and manufacturing sector led with 47 percent of total permits, followed by vocational and educational activities, ICT, accommodation and food services, and wholesale and retail trade. Real estate saw the most significant growth in investment licenses, increasing by 253.3 percent year-on-year.


Saudi Arabia has topped several global indicators, including the Total Value of Venture Investment and the Trust in Government Index. The Kingdom is also second in the PCSI Consumer Sentiment Index and the World Competitiveness Ranking for Cyber Security.


Entrepreneurs looking to do business in Saudi Arabia can benefit from diverse funding options, including government entities, large investment funds, and venture capitalists. The country’s leading position in technology spending and its significant investments in the sports industry offer lucrative opportunities for tech and sports-related startups. Supportive government initiatives and a rising number of investment licenses indicate a welcoming environment for new businesses.


Starting your company in Saudi Arabia is the first step to tapping into its exciting market opportunities. At TME Services, we’ve been in the Middle East for over 18 years, helping businesses like yours get started.

Share:

More Posts

FTA Publishes New Guide on Interest Deduction Limitation Rules under UAE Corporate Tax Law

The guide reflects the UAE’s intention to bring its corporate tax regime in line with international best practices, particularly the OECD’s BEPS (Base Erosion and Profit Shifting) framework, specifically Action 4, which addresses excessive interest deductions. Companies are well advised to incorporate these rules into their tax planning strategies to avoid adverse consequences and to benefit from the flexibility that the legislation offers when applied correctly.

Legal Analysis of the UAE’s New End-of-Service Gratuity Savings Scheme

The UAE’s new end-of-service savings model represents a forward-thinking reform that offers substantial benefits for both employees and employers. The ability to transfer gratuity funds into professionally managed investment schemes provides greater transparency and long-term financial security. Companies interested in participating should proactively adjust their internal processes to take full advantage of this innovative model.

The New UAE Competition Law

The reform of competition law in the UAE marks a significant step towards a more modern and transparent regulatory framework. The introduction of clearly defined merger control thresholds, the elimination of broad sectoral exemptions, and the substantial tightening of penalties reflect a more regulated competitive environment. The law came into force on December 29, 2023, while the new merger control thresholds have been in effect since March 31, 2025. Companies must therefore ensure full compliance with these new provisions as of that date.

Law No. 2 of 2025: Comprehensive reform of the DIFC Courts Law

Law No. (2) of 2025 marks a significant milestone in the development of the DIFC Courts, with a strong focus on mediation, judicial efficiency und a human-centered approach to dispute resolution. By clearly delineating jurisdictional boundaries, introducing mechanisms for amicable settlements, and enhancing procedural flexibility, the law reinforces the DIFC’s standing as a premier international financial center with a modern and effective judicial framework.