Demystifying Corporate Tax and Zakat in Saudi Arabia

• Tax Rate: The standard corporate income tax rate in Saudi Arabia is 20%. This rate applies to the taxable income of companies, whether they are locally registered or foreign entities conducting business in the Kingdom. However, certain activities and entities may be eligible for reduced tax rates or exemptions based on Saudi Arabia’s incentive programs.
• Residency Status: A company is considered a resident for tax purposes if it is registered and incorporated in Saudi Arabia. Resident companies are subject to tax on their worldwide income, which includes income generated within and outside the Kingdom. Non-resident companies, on the other hand, are typically taxed only on their income derived from Saudi Arabia.
• Taxable Income: Corporate income tax is applied to the net profit of a company, which includes revenue, gains, and other income minus allowable deductions and expenses. Deductible expenses can encompass operating costs, depreciation, interest on loans, and certain other expenses related to the generation of income.
• Tax Deductions: Saudi Arabia’s tax laws allow for various deductions that can significantly impact a company’s taxable income. These deductions serve to reduce the overall tax liability of businesses and can include costs associated with research and development, approved training programs, and investments in qualified projects.

Zakat

In addition to corporate income tax, Saudi Arabian companies are also subject to Zakat, an Islamic wealth tax. Zakat is calculated at a rate of 2.5% on the net wealth of a company, which typically includes its capital and retained earnings. Companies must comply with Zakat requirements and report alongside their corporate tax obligations.

Withholding Tax

• Dividend Withholding Tax: Dividend distributions from Saudi Arabian companies to non-resident shareholders are generally subject to a 5% withholding tax. However, this rate may be reduced under double taxation treaties that Saudi Arabia has with various countries, which aim to prevent the double taxation of income.
• Interest and Royalty Withholding Tax: Payments of interest and royalties to non-resident entities may also be subject to a 5% withholding tax. Again, this rate may be reduced under double taxation treaties, facilitating international business activities and encouraging foreign investments.

Double Taxation Treaties

Saudi Arabia has established double taxation treaties with numerous countries to avoid the double taxation of income. These treaties help prevent situations where a company or individual is taxed on the same income in both their home country and Saudi Arabia. They often include provisions to reduce withholding tax rates and provide relief to taxpayers, thereby promoting international trade and investment.

Tax Filing and Compliance

Saudi Arabian companies are required to file tax returns annually. The fiscal year for tax purposes typically follows the Gregorian calendar. Businesses must accurately report their income, deductions, and other relevant financial information to fulfill their tax obligations. Timely and accurate tax compliance is essential to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth business operation in the Kingdom.

Tax Incentives

Saudi Arabia offers various tax incentives to promote investment in specific sectors and regions. These incentives may include reduced tax rates, tax holidays, and exemptions from certain taxes. The specific incentives available may vary depending on the type of business, location, and the government’s economic development goals.

To navigate the complex landscape of corporate taxation in Saudi Arabia effectively, businesses often seek advice from tax professionals, accountants, or legal experts who are well-versed in the Kingdom’s tax laws. This helps ensure compliance with local tax requirements, optimize tax planning strategies, and take advantage of available incentives, ultimately contributing to the success of corporate ventures in Saudi Arabia.

Next reading: License: Service license and its rules & requirements in KSA

About ArnifiArnifi is a digital first Corporate service provider helping companies enter the Middle East region, starting with UAE and Saudi Arabia markets. Founded and backed by professionals from Amazon, Souq, and other large companies operating in KSA – the team understands what it takes to succeed as a startup in both UAE and Saudi Arabian markets, apart from going through the setup process multiple times. Arnifi will provide a truly digital experience for the entry and scale-up of companies in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The Arnifi promise is simple, yet revolutionary, using technology and a great team to provide transparency, efficiency, and a great customer experience in the whole process.