How to Choose a Law Firm in Saudi Arabia: 7 Checks

Most people hire a lawyer once or twice in their lives, usually at a stressful moment, and usually with very little idea of how to judge one. The firm with the most polished website is not necessarily the firm that will win your case. The good news is that the Kingdom gives you real tools to check a lawyer before you commit – a public directory, a licence verification service, and a professional code that sets out exactly what a lawyer owes you. Most clients never use them. Here are seven checks to run before you sign anything. 1. Verify the Licence – And Check Which List They Are On This is the check almost nobody performs, and it is the most important. Practising law in the Kingdom requires a licence from the Ministry of Justice. The Ministry maintains two separate lists: a list of practicing lawyers and a list of non-practicing lawyers. The distinction matters enormously. A lawyer on the non-practicing list may provide legal consultations, but is not permitted to plead before the Saudi courts. If your matter is heading to litigation and your adviser sits on the wrong list, they cannot represent you when it counts. Note also that if a lawyer stops practising for more than one year, the Ministry moves their name from the practising list to the non-practising list. How to check, in minutes: Ask your prospective lawyer for their name as registered and check it yourself. A legitimate firm will not mind. 2. Confirm Saudi Bar Association Membership Licensing is only half of it. Under the Code of Law Practice, every person licensed to practise law must obtain basic membership of the Saudi Bar Association within 90 days of receiving their licence. The Bar Association matters to you for a practical reason: it is part of the disciplinary structure. If something goes wrong, a lawyer regulated by the Ministry and the Bar Association can face sanctions under the profession’s disciplinary rules, which run from a warning through to being struck off the register. An unregistered adviser gives you no such recourse. 3. Insist on a Written Fee Contract Before Work Begins Under the Rules of Professional Conduct, issued pursuant to the Code of Law Practice (Royal Decree M/38), a lawyer must execute a written contract with the client. It must set out the parties, the subject matter, the scope of work, the expected timeframe, and the fees or the method by which they are calculated. This is not a courtesy. It is a professional obligation, and Chapter VIII of the Code provides penalties for breach. You can go further. The Ministry of Justice has launched a Unified Contract for Lawyer Fees, created through the Najiz platform, which is legally binding and can be processed electronically by the enforcement courts without a separate lawsuit. Ask whether the firm uses it. If a firm is evasive about money, treat that as information about how the rest of the relationship will go. We explain the fee models in detail in our guide to how much a lawyer costs in Saudi Arabia. 4. Match the Practice Area to Your Actual Problem The most expensive mistake is hiring by size rather than by fit. A global firm with a Riyadh office may be superbly equipped for a billion-riyal project financing and poorly suited to recovering an unpaid invoice from a local trading company. Litigation, corporate transactions, debt recovery, employment disputes, enforcement, and inheritance are six different specialisms. Ask a specific question: how many matters like mine did this firm handle in the last year, and who will actually do the work? The partner who charms you in the meeting is not always the person who drafts your pleadings. For a picture of the market and which firms are known for what, see our guide to the top 10 law firms in Saudi Arabia. 5. Check for Conflicts of Interest The Code of Law Practice is strict here, and the rules protect you: Ask directly whether the firm has ever acted for the other side. A firm that shrugs at this question is telling you something. 6. Understand Who May Represent You in Court If you are an international client, this check saves real money. Court advocacy in the Kingdom is generally reserved for lawyers licensed in Saudi Arabia. Foreign law firms are entered on a special register held by the Ministry of Justice, and – apart from those holding a temporary licence – a licensed foreign firm must ordinarily operate by establishing a professional company with one or more Saudi lawyers registered on the practising list. A licensed Saudi lawyer may also be assisted by non-Saudi legal consultants under an employment contract, working under that lawyer’s responsibility and supervision. Their role is to assist and prepare submissions in the name of the licensed lawyer. The practical point: confirm who will sign your pleadings and stand before the court. A foreign consultant advising you is not the same as a licensed advocate representing you. 7. Ask for an Honest Assessment, Not a Promise Here is the clearest warning sign of all. Under the Rules of Professional Conduct, advertising by lawyers is restricted, and an advertisement must not be misleading, false, or deceptive. Any firm that guarantees you will win, or markets itself with claims it cannot substantiate, is not a firm that is being careful with the rules – or with you. The Code also prohibits a lawyer from threatening criminal proceedings to pressure the other side into settling a civil matter where there is no basis for a complaint, and from contacting your opponent directly except through their lawyer. Aggressive tactics that impress you at the pitch meeting can expose your case later. A good lawyer will tell you the weaknesses in your position at the first meeting. That conversation is uncomfortable, and it is exactly what you are paying for. Warning Signs: When to Walk Away A Word About Our Own Firm We are a law

Legal Services for Expats in Saudi Arabia: A Complete Guide

Living and working in the Kingdom as a foreign resident is, for most people, straightforward. Problems arise at predictable moments: when a salary goes unpaid, when a contract is signed without being read, when a family member dies, or when someone decides to leave and discovers their end-of-service benefit is disputed. This guide explains the legal situations expats most commonly face in Saudi Arabia, what protections exist, and where to get help. It is written in plain English because the terminology is often the first barrier. First: Your Rights Are Real, and They Are Enforceable A common fear among foreign residents is that the system will not hear them. In practice, the Kingdom has built structured, largely electronic channels for exactly these disputes – and several of them protect expats specifically. Two examples worth knowing immediately: Knowing this changes how the conversation with an employer goes. Labour Disputes: The Process, Step by Step This is the most common legal issue expats face – unpaid wages, withheld end-of-service benefits, unfair termination, or contract violations. Step 1 – Friendly Settlement is mandatory. You cannot go straight to court. The first stage is the Friendly Settlement (also called Amicable Settlement) service, filed electronically through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) portal. Log in with your Nafath or Absher credentials. Step 2 – Mediation. A ministry conciliator schedules sessions and attempts to bring both sides together. Step 3 – Referral to the Labour Court. If no settlement is reached, the case is referred electronically to the labour court within 21 working days from the date of the first session. You receive a reference number to follow the case through the Najiz portal. Step 4 – Judgment. The labour court hears the case. This stage is not time-bound and may take several months, depending on complexity. Three practical points that decide cases: If you need a broader picture of employer obligations, see our guide to Saudi labor law compliance and employee disputes. Free help exists. MHRSD operates a toll-free helpline on 19911, with support in multiple languages including English, Hindi, and Urdu. The Ministry of Justice unified call centre is 1950, or +966 92 000 1950 from abroad. A Different Route for Domestic Workers This catches many people out. Domestic service workers – housemaids, drivers, cooks, gardeners, domestic nurses – are not covered by the Labour Law in the same way, and their disputes do not go through the ordinary labour courts. Instead, they are handled by the Commission for Settlement of Domestic Workers’ Labour Disputes, located within the relevant labour offices. Bring the employment contract, Iqama, passport copy, and the sponsor’s contact details. If you employ a domestic worker, note that salaries must now be paid electronically through the Musaned platform. We explain that obligation in our guide to the new e-salary rules for domestic workers. Contracts: Read Before You Sign Foreign residents routinely sign Arabic contracts they cannot read, on the assumption that the English translation attached is authoritative. It usually is not. Three features of Saudi contract law surprise newcomers: Before you sign anything commercial, read our guide to the contract clauses every Saudi business should add. Property: The 2026 Change Expats Should Know Under the new Real Estate Ownership Law for Non-Saudis (Royal Decree M/14, issued July 2025 and effective in early 2026), foreigners may now own real estate in designated zones of the Kingdom. This is a genuine opportunity, and it creates a new obligation: an apartment you own in Riyadh becomes a Saudi asset, and it will pass under Saudi inheritance rules when you die. Plan for it. Our real estate attorney services cover purchase, title, and transfer. Wills and Inheritance: The Question Every Expat Should Ask If you die while resident in the Kingdom, assets located inside Saudi Arabia are generally handled by the Saudi courts under Islamic principles. Bank accounts are frozen. Nothing is released until the heirs are formally identified by a court-issued heirship deed. A non-Muslim expat can and should record a clear, notarised will. It is not automatically decisive – a request to apply your home-country law may be considered but is not guaranteed – yet it gives the court something clear to work with and reduces family disputes badly. Do not rely on a will written abroad alone. Our full guide explains this: how inheritance and wills work in Saudi Arabia for families and expats. Powers of Attorney and Documents Much expat legal life runs on documentation – powers of attorney, corporate resolutions, declarations, translations, and attestations. Documents fail on procedure far more often than on substance. Our notary services handle preparation and authentication. Do You Need an English-Speaking Lawyer? Yes – but be precise about what you are asking for. Court advocacy in the Kingdom is generally reserved for lawyers licensed in Saudi Arabia, and filings are made in Arabic. A non-Saudi consultant may assist and prepare submissions, but does so in the name of the licensed Saudi lawyer. What you actually need is a firm that files in Arabic and explains in English. Ask directly: who will sign my pleadings, and are they on the Ministry of Justice list of practicing lawyers? You can verify this yourself through the Practicing Lawyers Directory on the Najiz platform. If you are running a business rather than working for one, also review the common legal mistakes foreign investors make in Saudi Arabia. How We Help Foreign Residents We work in Arabic and English for individuals, families, and companies across the Kingdom. Our practice covers labour disputes, contracts, enforcement and debt recovery, property, notary work, and inheritance – the full range of legal services in Saudi Arabia that a foreign resident is likely to need. We tell clients honestly when a case is weak, and we explain every step in language you can act on. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Can An Expat File A Labour Complaint In Saudi Arabia? Yes. Foreign workers can file a labour complaint electronically through the Ministry

AlKhorayef Law Firm: 20 Years of Legal Practice in the Kingdom

Most law firm “about” pages say the same things. Rather than repeat them, this page sets out plainly who we are, who leads us, where we sit, what we actually do, and how we work — so that clients, partners, and anyone researching us can verify it for themselves. Who We Are AlKhorayef Law Firm (Arabic: الخريف محامون ومستشارون) is a Saudi law firm headquartered in Riyadh. We deliver legal services to individuals, corporations, financial institutions, and international entities operating within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our head office is on Olaya Street, Al Muruj District, Riyadh 11533. We can be reached on +966 920002390 and at info@alkhorayeflawfirm.com. We have more than 20 years of legal practice behind us, and we work in both Arabic and English. Our Founder Abdulaziz Mohammed Al-Khorayef is the Founder, Principal Lawyer, and Chairman of the Board. He built the firm on principles of integrity, strategic advocacy, and uncompromising professional standards, and brings extensive experience across Saudi litigation, enforcement proceedings, and corporate legal advisory. Under his leadership the firm has represented clients in complex civil, commercial, and enforcement matters. He is known for an analytical approach to legal problems, a strong courtroom presence, and a deep working knowledge of the Saudi judicial system. He continues to guide the firm with a focus on excellence, modernisation, and long-term client success within the Kingdom’s evolving legal environment. What We Do We practise across the areas where clients most often need decisive action: Litigation and court representation. We appear before the commercial, labour, and Sharia courts, preparing pleadings, memoranda, and objections with procedural accuracy. See our litigation services. Enforcement and judgment execution. Winning a judgment is only half the task; collecting on it is the other half. Our enforcement services cover proceedings before the Execution Court, including asset seizure and travel bans. Debt collection, local and international. We recover unpaid debts for businesses, banks, and financial institutions, beginning with structured amicable recovery before escalating to court action. See our debt collection services. Notary and attestation. Powers of attorney, corporate resolutions, declarations, and agreements, prepared and authenticated correctly. See our notary services. Asset and inheritance management. From securing the heirship deed through valuation, debt settlement, liquidation, and distribution. See our asset (inheritance) management services. Corporate and commercial advisory. Company formation, contracts, governance, and regulatory compliance. How We Work Our approach is deliberately simple, and we state it in three steps: Understand the client. Analyse the risk. Deliver the solution. Strategic litigation. We do not simply handle cases. We build legal strategies backed by research, preparation, and courtroom experience. Commercially minded advisory. Legal advice that is practical and aligned with a client’s financial and operational goals, not abstract. Strong enforcement and recovery. Advanced recovery strategies supported by international partnerships, so that judgments are actually executed. We also tell clients honestly when a case is weak. Taking a fee to pursue a claim that will fail serves nobody. Our Mission and Vision Mission: to provide reliable, strategic, and results-driven legal services that protect our clients’ rights while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. Vision: to be recognised as one of Saudi Arabia’s most trusted and respected law firms, known for legal excellence, ethical practice, and measurable client success. We are proud to support Saudi Vision 2030 by providing modern, compliant, and forward-thinking legal services aligned with the Kingdom’s evolving legal landscape. Who We Serve Verify Us We think clients should check any lawyer before engaging them, including us. The Ministry of Justice maintains a Practicing Lawyers Directory on the Najiz platform, searchable by city and by name, and a separate service to verify the status of licences it has issued. We explain the full process in our guide on how to choose a law firm in Saudi Arabia, which sets out seven checks every client should run. Run them on us. You can also read how we handle fees in our guide to how much a lawyer costs in Saudi Arabia. We set out the scope, timeframe, and fee in writing before any work begins, as the Code of Law Practice requires. Find Us AlKhorayef Law Firm Olaya Street, Al Muruj District, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia Telephone: +966 920002390 Email: info@alkhorayeflawfirm.com We are a law firm in Saudi Arabia serving clients nationwide from our Riyadh head office. You can read more about our team or view our full practice areas. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Who Founded AlKhorayef Law Firm? The firm was founded by Abdulaziz Mohammed Al-Khorayef, who serves as Principal Lawyer and Chairman of the Board. He built the firm around litigation, enforcement proceedings, and corporate legal advisory in the Kingdom. 2. Where Is AlKhorayef Law Firm Located? Our head office is on Olaya Street, Al Muruj District, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia. We serve clients across the Kingdom from Riyadh, and can be reached on +966 920002390 or at info@alkhorayeflawfirm.com. 3. What Services Does AlKhorayef Law Firm Provide? We provide litigation and court representation, enforcement and judgment execution, local and international debt collection, notary and attestation services, asset and inheritance management, and corporate and commercial legal advisory. 4. How Long Has AlKhorayef Law Firm Been Practising? The firm has more than 20 years of legal practice, serving individuals, businesses, financial institutions, and international clients throughout Saudi Arabia. 5. Does AlKhorayef Law Firm Work In English? Yes. We work in both Arabic and English. Court filings are made in Arabic as required, and we explain every stage of a matter to our clients in English. 6. Does The Firm Handle International Debt Recovery? Yes. We recover debts for businesses, banks, and financial institutions, and we support cross-border recovery through international partnerships alongside enforcement proceedings before the Execution Court in the Kingdom. 7. How Do I Contact AlKhorayef Law Firm? Call +966 920002390, email info@alkhorayeflawfirm.com, or visit our contact page to request a confidential consultation. Our office is on Olaya Street, Al Muruj District, Riyadh 11533.

Power of Attorney in Saudi Arabia: How to Issue One

A power of attorney wakala lets someone act on your behalf. Sell a property, represent you in court, run a bank errand, sign for your company, complete a transaction while you are abroad. The good news is that in the Kingdom you no longer need to queue at a notary public. The Ministry of Justice now issues powers of attorney electronically through the Najiz platform, in minutes, and the document is verified digitally by banks and government bodies. This guide explains the types, the exact steps, how to check one is genuine, and how to cancel one instantly. What a Power of Attorney Actually Does Two parties are involved: The authority can be narrow — one defined task — or broad, covering financial, legal, and business matters. What matters is that you choose deliberately, because a power of attorney is a real transfer of power over your affairs. The Two Main Types Special (limited) power of attorney. Grants authority for specific, listed tasks. Selling one named property. Representing you in one named case. This is the safer default, and it is what most people should use. General power of attorney. Grants broad authority across financial, legal, and business matters. It is powerful, and for that reason it should be used sparingly and only with someone you trust completely. The practical rule: grant the narrowest authority that gets the job done. A general power of attorney handed to the wrong person is very difficult to unwind after the damage is done. How to Issue a Power of Attorney Through Najiz The electronic service lets you create and issue a power of attorney without visiting a notary public. Here is the path: The power of attorney is issued and stored in the Najiz system. There is no need for the agent to carry a printed copy; government offices and most private organisations verify it electronically. In some cases the agent may be asked to log in through Absher to confirm acceptance of the authority. Issuing an electronic power of attorney is generally free for standard personal use. The Alternative: Register and Issue via the Virtual Notarial Office If your situation does not fit the standard individual service, there is a second route: Note that identity verification may require attendance at the relevant office. Reissuing a Previous Power of Attorney If you have used a power of attorney before and want the same terms again, you do not need to start over. On Najiz, select Issue e-power of attorney, then Copy previous power of attorney, and enter the number of the previous power of attorney together with the ID number of one of the parties. Issuing One From Outside the Kingdom The Ministry of Justice operates a system allowing an electronic power of attorney to be issued through Saudi embassies and consulates abroad. This replaced a slow paper process. Previously, a client abroad had to obtain a paper power of attorney from the embassy, then post it to the Kingdom for certification by the ministries of foreign affairs and justice. The electronic version can be used immediately, verified through the ministry portal, and revoked on the same platform. How to Verify That a Power of Attorney Is Genuine Never act on a power of attorney you have not checked. Anyone can print a document. The service confirms the status, lets you review the clauses, and allows you to download the decree electronically. If a stranger presents you with a power of attorney over someone else’s property or bank account, this three-minute check is the difference between a valid transaction and a fraud. How to Cancel a Power of Attorney You can view your active powers of attorney, check their status, and cancel them at any time through your Najiz account. Cancellation takes effect instantly. Two practical warnings: How Long Does a Power of Attorney Last? You select a duration when you issue it. It is commonly stated that a Saudi power of attorney runs for up to five years unless a shorter period is specified or it is revoked earlier — but do not rely on a general rule. Check the duration shown on your own document at the point of issuance, and set your own shorter period where you can. Common Mistakes We See When You Need a Lawyer, Not Just a Portal The portal issues the document. It does not tell you whether the wording protects you. We draft powers of attorney with terms tight enough to do the job and narrow enough to limit risk, and we handle the surrounding documentation through our notary services. A power of attorney appointing counsel is also the first document required in most litigation and enforcement matters, and in estate work — see our guide to inheritance and wills in Saudi Arabia. If you are a foreign resident, our guide for expats explains where powers of attorney fit into the wider picture. You can view our full range of legal services in Saudi Arabia, or read how much a lawyer costs before you engage anyone. Frequently Asked Questions 1. How Do I Issue A Power Of Attorney In Saudi Arabia? Log in to the Najiz platform with your National Single Sign-On credentials, select All Electronic Services, choose Powers of Attorney and Declarations, open the Issue individual power of attorney service, click New Application, enter the principal and agent details, select the terms and duration, then click Approve. No visit to a notary public is required. 2. Is A Najiz Power Of Attorney Free? Issuing an electronic power of attorney through Najiz is generally free for standard personal use. The document is valid immediately after issuance and is stored in the Najiz system. 3. How Do I Verify A Power Of Attorney In Saudi Arabia? Log in to Najiz, select All Electronic Services, choose the Verification Services package, open Verify power of attorney, click New Application, and enter the power of attorney number together with the ID number of one of the parties. You

How to Verify a Lawyer’s Licence in Saudi Arabia

Anyone can print a business card. Anyone can build a website with the word “lawyer” on it. Before you hand over your case, your documents, and your money, spend ten minutes confirming that the person in front of you is actually licensed to practise law in the Kingdom and licensed to do the specific thing you need. This guide shows you exactly how, using free official channels. Why This Check Matters More Than You Think Three reasons. First, only a licensed lawyer can represent you in court. For certain matters, including major commercial disputes and corporate proceedings, representation must be through a Saudi-licensed lawyer. Representation by unlicensed persons is not accepted. Second, licensing creates accountability. A licensed lawyer is regulated by the Ministry of Justice and the Saudi Bar Association, and is subject to disciplinary sanctions under the profession’s rules ranging from a warning through to being struck off the register. An unlicensed adviser gives you no such recourse. If they lose your file or take your fee, your options are far thinner. Third and this is the check almost nobody runs being “a lawyer” is not enough. Read on. The Distinction That Catches People Out The Ministry of Justice maintains two separate lists: A person on the non-practicing list may provide legal consultations, but is not permitted to plead before the Saudi courts. So a perfectly genuine, qualified, honest lawyer may still be unable to stand up in court for you. If your matter is heading to litigation and your adviser sits on the wrong list, you will discover this at the worst possible moment. There is a further wrinkle: if a lawyer ceases to practise for more than one year, the Ministry moves their name from the practicing list to the non-practicing list. Ask which list your lawyer is on. Then verify it yourself. Method 1: Search the Practicing Lawyers Directory on Najiz This is the primary check. The Ministry of Justice publishes an electronic directory of practicing lawyers, searchable by city and by name. If the name is not there, stop and ask why. Method 2: Verify the Licence Status Directly The Ministry of Justice also provides a separate service that allows you to check the status of licences it has issued. Use this to confirm that a licence is current rather than expired or suspended. This matters because licences must be renewed. Under the Code of Law Practice regulations, lawyers are required to file for renewal at least 90 days before the expiry date, through the Najiz portal. A licence that lapsed is not a licence. Method 3: Confirm Saudi Bar Association Membership Licensing and membership are two different things, and the law requires both. Under the Code of Law Practice, every person licensed to practise law must obtain basic membership of the Saudi Bar Association within 90 days of obtaining their licence. The Saudi Bar Association operates its own electronic portal. Membership is part of the disciplinary structure that protects you. What a Licensed Saudi Lawyer Must Satisfy For context, these are the statutory requirements to appear on the list of practicing lawyers: Each lawyer must also have a place of business and must notify the Ministry of Justice of that address and any change to it. So a firm with no verifiable office address is a question mark. Checking a Foreign Lawyer or International Firm If you are dealing with an international firm, the rules differ. The Ministry of Justice maintains a special register for foreign law firms licensed to practise in the Kingdom, including those holding a temporary licence. Apart from firms holding a temporary licence, a licensed foreign law firm must ordinarily take a prescribed form before practising typically establishing a professional company with one or more Saudi lawyers registered on the practicing list. Separately, a licensed Saudi lawyer may be assisted by non-Saudi legal consultants under an employment contract, working under that lawyer’s responsibility and supervision. Their role is restricted to providing assistance and preparing submissions in the name of the licensed lawyer. The practical question to ask an international firm: who is the licensed Saudi lawyer who will sign my pleadings? Warning Signs If Something Goes Wrong A licensed lawyer sits within a disciplinary framework administered by the Ministry of Justice and the Saudi Bar Association. Sanctions under the Code of Law Practice run from a warning through to a lawyer’s name being struck from the register, imposed by the competent court. The Ministry of Justice unified call centre is 1950, or +966 92 000 1950 from outside the Kingdom. This protection is precisely what you forfeit by engaging someone unlicensed. Run These Checks On Us We think this is the right way round. Verify first, engage second with any firm, including ours. We are a law firm in Saudi Arabia based on Olaya Street in the Al Muruj District of Riyadh, founded and chaired by Abdulaziz Mohammed Al-Khorayef. We set out the scope, timeframe, and fee in writing before any work begins, as the Code requires. For the wider picture, see our seven checks before hiring a law firm, read more about our team, or review what we do. Frequently Asked Questions 1. How Do I Check If A Lawyer Is Licensed In Saudi Arabia? Log in to the Najiz platform with your National Single Sign-On credentials, select All Electronic Services, choose the Licenses package, and open the Practicing Lawyers Directory. You can search by city and by lawyer name. The Ministry of Justice also offers a separate service to verify the status of licences it has issued. 2. What Is The Difference Between A Practicing And Non-Practicing Lawyer? The Ministry of Justice keeps both lists. A lawyer on the practicing list may represent clients and plead before the courts. A lawyer on the non-practicing list may give legal consultations but cannot plead before the Saudi courts. A lawyer who stops practising for more than one year is moved to the non-practicing list. 3. Do Saudi Lawyers Have

Top 10 Law Firms in Saudi Arabia (2026)

Choosing a lawyer in the Kingdom is a decision most people make only once or twice, usually under pressure. The market has changed quickly under Vision 2030, and the right firm for a cross-border merger is rarely the right firm for a debt recovery case or an inheritance file. This guide profiles ten law firms operating in Saudi Arabia in 2026, what each is known for, and how to choose between them. We should be open about one thing: our own firm appears on this list. We have placed it first because this is our publication, not because we claim to outrank the others. Every other entry is described from public directory information, and we encourage you to verify any firm independently through the Saudi Bar Association and the Ministry of Justice. How This List Was Compiled There is no single official ranking of law firms in Saudi Arabia. Independent legal directories — Chambers and Partners, The Legal 500, and IFLR1000 — publish annual assessments based on client feedback and submitted work. The firms below are drawn from those directories and from public firm information. Practice strengths differ enormously, so read this as a map of the market rather than a scoreboard. 1. AlKhorayef Law Firm Riyadh · Litigation, enforcement, debt collection, notary, inheritance We are a Saudi law firm headquartered on Olaya Street in the Al Muruj District of Riyadh, founded and chaired by Abdulaziz Mohammed Al-Khorayef. We serve individuals, companies, financial institutions, and international entities operating in the Kingdom, with more than 20 years of legal practice behind us, working in both Arabic and English. Where many firms position themselves around large corporate transactions, our focus is different. We concentrate on the areas where clients most often need decisive action rather than abstract advice; the moments when a judgment needs enforcing, a debt needs recovering, or an estate needs settling correctly. Our core practice areas: What sets our approach apart: Our method is deliberately plain — understand the client, analyse the risk, deliver the solution. We explain the law in language a client can act on, not jargon. We set out the scope, timeframe, and fee in writing before any work begins, as the Code of Law Practice requires. And we tell clients honestly when a case is weak, because taking a fee to pursue a claim that will fail serves nobody. Our clients include businesses, banks, and financial institutions, alongside individuals and international investors who need a firm that files in Arabic and explains in English. You can read more about our team or view our full range of legal services. Best suited to: businesses and individuals who need litigation, enforcement, cross-border debt recovery, or estate matters handled directly, in plain language, and without unnecessary cost. 2. Khoshaim & Associates Riyadh, Jeddah, Abu Dhabi · Corporate, M&A, capital markets An independent Saudi firm with recognised depth in the local market. Khoshaim & Associates advises on market entry mandates, joint venture agreements, and mergers and acquisitions, acting for major international and regional clients including government entities and energy companies. The firm also handles commercial regulatory issues and has a growing venture capital practice. 3. Al Jadaan & Partners Riyadh · Banking, finance, capital markets, investment funds A Riyadh firm known for banking and finance, capital markets, and investment funds work. Al Jadaan & Partners advises financial institutions and sovereign wealth funds on complex Shariah-compliant transactions, and is regularly associated with Capital Market Authority regulatory matters and Islamic finance. 4. AAA Law (in association with Dentons) Riyadh, Jeddah · Full service, projects, arbitration, energy One of the Kingdom’s larger independent firms, operating in association with the global firm Dentons. Its work spans project finance for landmark developments such as NEOM and the Red Sea Development, alongside international arbitration and energy law. The Dentons affiliation gives clients access to a network spanning over 200 offices worldwide. 5. Al Tamimi & Company Riyadh, Jeddah, Eastern Province · Corporate and commercial A regional firm with an extensive Saudi corporate and commercial practice. Al Tamimi advises on acquisitions, divestments, and joint ventures, frequently alongside international counsel on multi-jurisdictional matters. It has considerable experience with Saudi Arabia’s Regional Headquarters programme, making it a common choice for multinationals establishing a base in the Kingdom. 6. King & Spalding Al Fahad Riyadh · Corporate, finance, energy, real estate, arbitration In 2025 the Saudi firm Abdulaziz H. Al Fahad & Partners joined King & Spalding in Riyadh, combining a global platform with deep local experience. The combined practice has more than two dozen fee earners, the majority of them Saudi nationals, covering corporate, finance, energy, real estate, Islamic finance, funds, construction, projects, restructuring, and dispute resolution. 7. White & Case Riyadh · Project finance, capital markets, arbitration An international firm with a well-established Saudi presence. White & Case is noted for lawyers with extensive experience acting for government entities and major regional companies, and regularly advises on high-profile M&A and real estate transactions, joint ventures, and privatisations, as well as project finance and international arbitration. 8. Baker McKenzie Riyadh, Jeddah · Corporate, employment, tax, IP, disputes Baker McKenzie’s Saudi practice offers comprehensive services across corporate M&A, employment law, tax, intellectual property, and dispute resolution. It is recognised in the market for Saudization compliance, labour law, and advisory work on the Personal Data Protection Law — areas that matter to almost every employer in the Kingdom. 9. Latham & Watkins (with the Law Office of Salman M. Al-Sudairi) Riyadh · Capital markets, banking, Islamic finance, restructuring Latham & Watkins operates in Riyadh in cooperation with the Law Office of Salman M. Al-Sudairi. The office is home to capital markets, private equity, corporate, banking, litigation, and restructuring lawyers, and the firm holds leading directory rankings across key transactional practices in Saudi Arabia. It has a prominent record advising on major IPO offerings in the Kingdom. 10. Freshfields Riyadh · M&A, joint ventures, private equity Freshfields established a standalone Riyadh office in 2025, while maintaining close links with the

Common Legal Problems in Saudi Arabia: Your Questions Answered

Every week, people in the Kingdom face the same urgent legal problems: an unpaid salary, a missing deposit, a hidden business partner, or a family inheritance dispute. Most of these problems have a clear legal answer, but many people do not know their rights or where to start. At AlKhorayef Law Firm, we help residents, expats, and businesses solve these exact issues every day. Below, we answer the most common real-life legal questions in simple language. This is general guidance, so for your own case, please contact us for advice that fits your situation. Labour and Employment Problems Saudi Arabia updated its Labour Law in 2025 (effective 19 February 2025), adding stronger worker protections, a clear resignation process, and mandatory digital contracts through Qiwa. We explain the wider picture in our guide to Saudi labour law compliance and employee disputes. 1. My Employer Is Withholding My Passport What Are My Legal Rights? Keeping your passport or Iqama against your will is not allowed in Saudi Arabia, and employers who do this can face fines. Your documents belong to you. You can demand their return and file a complaint through the Qiwa platform, and our team at AlKhorayef Law Firm can support you through the process. 2. My Saudi Employer Hasn’t Paid My Salary for 2 Months What Can I Do? You can file a labour complaint online through the Qiwa platform using your Iqama number, with no need for a lawyer to start. A conciliation officer will contact both sides, usually within a few working days. If salaries stay unpaid, the law lets you escalate the matter, and in some cases transfer to a new employer. We can manage the full claim for you. 3. My End of Service Gratuity Was Calculated Wrong How to Fight It Your end of service benefit is based on your final wage and your years of service, and it is a common source of mistakes. If you were dismissed without a valid reason, you may also claim extra compensation. We review the numbers, gather the proof, and challenge a wrong calculation through the labour courts. 4. Fired Without Warning in Saudi Arabia: Do You Have a Case? Maybe. An employer cannot end your contract unfairly, and the 2025 reforms ban discrimination based on gender, age, nationality, disability, and marital status. If your dismissal was unfair, you may be entitled to compensation. We assess whether you have a strong wrongful-termination claim before you act. 5. My Employer Filed Huroob (Absconding) Against Me Falsely What Are My Rights? A false Huroob report is a serious matter, and employers who file one wrongly can face penalties. You do not have to accept it. You can challenge the report through the labour courts and clear your record. We help workers fight false Huroob reports and protect their status. 6. I Was Reported as a Runaway (Huroob) Can I Clear It Without My Employer? Yes. You can file a labour complaint and ask the court to cancel a wrongful Huroob report without your employer’s consent. Many workers do not know this is possible. With the right legal steps, the report can often be reversed. 7. My Employer Is Making Me Work a Second Job Not in My Contract Is That Legal? No. Under Saudi labour law, your employer cannot force you to do work outside what is written in your contract without your agreement. Your registered Qiwa contract sets the limits of your duties. If you are being pressured, we can raise the issue formally. 8. My Iqama Wasn’t Renewed Who Is Responsible, Me or My Employer? Your employer is legally responsible for renewing your Iqama and for paying the related government fees. If you face fines or problems because the employer failed to renew it, you have legal recourse. We help workers recover losses caused by an employer’s failure to act. 9. My Employer Forced Me to Sign a Blank Contract What Can I Do? Employment contracts must now be documented and registered on the Qiwa platform to be properly recognized. A blank or incomplete contract leaves you exposed, but it also gives you grounds to complain. We help you establish your real terms and file a claim. 10. I Quit My Job in Saudi Arabia Will I Lose My End of Service Benefits? Not always. Under the 2025 rules, employees can resign with proper notice, and your end of service benefit is paid on a sliding scale based on your years of service. If your employer broke the contract first, you may keep your full rights. We confirm exactly what you are owed. 11. My Employer Is Deducting Money From My Salary Without My Consent Is That Legal? No. Deducting from your wages without your written agreement or a lawful reason is not allowed. You can file through Qiwa to recover money taken unfairly. We build the claim and represent you so the deductions are returned. 12. I Was Injured at Work Who Pays My Medical Bills and Compensation? Your employer is responsible for the cost of a work injury, and work-injury cover usually runs through the social insurance (GOSI) system until you recover or a disability is confirmed. Many workers wrongly pay these costs themselves. We help you claim the medical care and compensation you are owed. 13. My Employer Paid Me Less Than the Offer Letter Promised What Are My Options? Your binding salary is the one in your registered Qiwa employment contract. A gap between the offer letter and your real pay can be a labour violation. We help you prove the agreed figure and recover the difference. 14. I Left Saudi Arabia on Final Exit but My Employer Never Paid My Dues Can I Still Sue? Yes. You can still file a labour claim after leaving the Kingdom by appointing a legal representative to act for you. This is very common for workers who returned home with unpaid dues. AlKhorayef Law Firm can pursue your claim while you are abroad. 15. My

What Is a Power of Attorney in Saudi Arabia and How Do You Get One?

A power of attorney (POA) is one of the most useful legal tools in the Kingdom. It lets you appoint someone you trust to act for you to sign documents, manage money, sell property, or run a company when you cannot be there in person. If you want to know how to get power of attorney in Saudi Arabia, this guide explains everything in simple language. At AlKhorayef Law Firm, we draft, notarize, and manage powers of attorney for residents, expats, and companies every day, and we will walk you through each step. What Is a Power of Attorney? A power of attorney, known in Arabic as a wakala, is a legal document in which one person (the principal) gives another person (the agent) the authority to act on their behalf. It is governed by Sharia principles and the Notarization Law (Royal Decree No. M/26). To be valid, a POA must be in writing, clearly state the powers granted, and be notarized by an authorized notary. People use a POA for many reasons, from handling a single sale to managing a full business. Understanding how legal advice protects your business often starts with getting your POA right. General vs Special Power of Attorney: The Difference Many clients ask us about the general vs special power of attorney Saudi Arabia difference. The two are not the same, and choosing the wrong one can cause problems. A general power of attorney gives the agent broad authority. The agent can manage your finances, sign contracts, buy or sell property, and handle business matters. It suits long-term needs, such as running a company while you are abroad. A special power of attorney is limited to one task or matter, such as selling a specific property or completing a single transaction. It usually ends once the task is finished. We often recommend a special POA because it lowers risk by limiting what the agent can do. A corporate lawyer in Saudi Arabia can help you pick the right type for your goals. How to Get a Power of Attorney in Saudi Arabia The easiest way today is online. The power of attorney Saudi Arabia Najiz platform online service, run by the Ministry of Justice, lets you create and issue a POA from home in minutes, with no court visit. Here is how the Najiz process works: Once issued, the POA is registered with the Ministry of Justice. Government bodies and most banks accept and verify it electronically. If you prefer, you can also visit an authorized notary public (Kateb Adl) in person. Either way, our team makes sure the wording protects you. Saudi Arabia POA Notarization Requirements 2025 The Saudi Arabia POA notarization requirements 2025 introduced still apply today. To be legally valid, a POA must be: Correct notarization is the step most people get wrong. Our notary services in Saudi Arabia make sure your POA is accepted the first time, without delays or rejections. Power of Attorney for Expats: Documents You Need Expats living in the Kingdom can issue a POA just like citizens. The power of attorney for expat in Saudi Arabia documents you need are simple: Because the whole process is digital, expats can issue a POA in minutes through Najiz. This is helpful for tasks like managing a lease, handling banking, or representing heirs. For estate matters, see our guide on inheritance and wills for families and expats. Skipping legal advice here is one of the common legal mistakes foreign investors make. How to Authenticate a Power of Attorney at a Saudi Embassy Abroad If you are outside the Kingdom, you may need to know how to authenticate power of attorney Saudi embassy abroad rules. A POA signed in another country must be legalized before Saudi authorities will accept it. The usual steps are: Since December 2022, Saudi Arabia is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. So for documents from other member states, an apostille can often replace full embassy legalization, which saves time. Where the apostille route is not available, the traditional steps above apply. Saudi nationals and residents abroad can also issue a POA directly through Saudi embassies and consulates. Power of Attorney for Property Sale A very common need is a power of attorney for property sale Saudi Arabia owners want to handle remotely. If you cannot attend the sale in person, a special POA lets your trusted agent sign the sale, transfer the title, and complete the deal for you. The POA must clearly identify the property and the exact powers granted, and it must be notarized. Because property deals carry high value and risk, we recommend careful drafting. Our attorney services for real estate cover POAs for buying, selling, and managing property. Power of Attorney for Business and Company Registration A POA is also essential for business. The power of attorney business company registration Saudi Arabia route lets a foreign investor or busy owner appoint an agent to register a company, sign the Articles of Association, open a corporate bank account, and deal with the Ministry of Investment and the Ministry of Commerce. This means you do not have to be present in the Kingdom to set up your business. We explain the full process in our guide on how to set up a company in Saudi Arabia, and we can also manage your assets through our asset management services. Validity Period and Expiry Rules It is important to understand POA Saudi Arabia validity period expiry rules. When you issue a POA, you can set a clear start date and expiry date. If you do not set one, special limits may apply for example, powers of attorney given to legal advisers are generally treated as valid for five years from the date of issue, unless an earlier end date is stated or the POA is revoked. Remember that Saudi Arabia uses the Hijri calendar, which is about 10 to 12 days shorter than the Gregorian year, so a five-year POA may expire sooner than

How to Enforce a Foreign Court Judgment in Saudi Arabia

Winning a court case abroad is only half the battle. If your debtor or their money sits inside the Kingdom, you still need a Saudi court to recognize and act on your ruling. To enforce foreign judgment Saudi Arabia 2026 rules apply, and these rules have just changed in a big way. At AlKhorayef Law Firm, we help local and international clients turn a paper judgment into real recovery. In this guide, we explain the new law, the reciprocity test, the documents you need, and the exact steps to follow at the execution court all in simple language. The New 2026 Enforcement Law (Royal Decree M/237) Saudi Arabia issued a new Enforcement Law in 2026 under Royal Decree No. M/237, dated 3/11/1447H (20 April 2026). It replaces the older 2012 Enforcement Law (Royal Decree No. M/53) and comes into full force 180 days after it was published in the Official Gazette, around late October 2026. The new law modernizes the whole system, widens the list of enforceable documents, and gives execution judges stronger tools to trace and seize assets. We break down the wider reforms in our guide to Saudi Arabia’s 2026 Enforcement Law (Royal Decree M/237). The most important point for cross-border creditors is this: the Saudi Arabia Enforcement Law Article 9 foreign judgments rules now sit in Article 9 of the new law. This article sets out when an execution court may treat a foreign judgment, order, or arbitral award as enforceable inside the Kingdom. The Reciprocity Requirement The first hurdle is reciprocity. The Saudi Arabia foreign judgment reciprocity requirement means the court must be satisfied that the country where your judgment was issued would also enforce a Saudi judgment in return. In practice, you need to show real proof of this such as a treaty between the two countries, past cases where that country enforced Saudi rulings, or an expert legal opinion from a lawyer in that country. Getting this proof is often the hardest part. The Ministry of Justice may be asked to confirm reciprocity, and this can take time. Since 2026, judges have applied the test more strictly, looking for genuine, practical reciprocity rather than a simple promise. This is why early planning matters, and why we always assess reciprocity before filing. Skipping this check is one of the common legal mistakes foreign investors make. Article 9: The Conditions for Enforcement Even when reciprocity exists, the execution court must check several conditions before it stamps your judgment for enforcement. Under Article 9, the foreign judgment will only be enforced if: These conditions protect fairness and Saudi sovereignty. Our litigation services team prepares your file to meet every point so the court has no reason to refuse. Treaties That Make Enforcement Easier Some judgments enjoy a faster path. The GCC convention enforce court judgment Saudi Arabia route applies to rulings from Gulf Cooperation Council states. Under the GCC Convention for the Execution of Judgments, a judgment issued in one member state is enforceable in the others, as long as it is enforceable in the country of origin. The GCC Convention even lists the documents you need: a certified copy of the judgment, a certificate showing it is final, and proof of service if it was a default judgment. Saudi Arabia is also part of the Riyadh Arab Agreement for Judicial Cooperation, which covers many Arab League countries. These treaties remove much of the reciprocity burden, because the agreement itself proves the two states cooperate. For judgments from these regions, enforcement is usually smoother and quicker. When a Foreign Judgment Is Not Enforceable Not every ruling can be enforced, even with reciprocity. A foreign court judgment not enforceable Saudi Arabia Sharia situation happens when the judgment conflicts with Islamic law or Saudi public order. The clearest example is interest (riba). Saudi courts traditionally refuse to enforce the interest part of a judgment, although in some cases a court may allow amounts framed as compensation for delay rather than pure interest. This is fact-sensitive and needs careful drafting. Other judgments that are usually not enforceable include rulings over Saudi real estate (in rem disputes), criminal and administrative judgments unless a treaty covers them, and any judgment that contradicts an earlier Saudi decision. We review your judgment early to flag these risks before you spend time and money filing. Foreign Arbitral Awards and the New York Convention Many people confuse a court judgment with an arbitration award, but the two follow different paths. The recognition foreign arbitral award Saudi Arabia New York Convention route is often easier than enforcing a court judgment. Saudi Arabia joined the 1958 New York Convention (with a reciprocity reservation), and Saudi courts have confirmed that a country being a member of the Convention is enough to satisfy reciprocity for arbitral awards. This is good news. An award from a respected seat for example, an LCIA award issued in London is, in principle, enforceable in the Kingdom. The execution judge does not re-examine the merits of the dispute; the judge only checks that the conditions are met. You will need to submit the original award (or a certified copy), the arbitration agreement, and certified Arabic translations. Because arbitration offers a clearer route to recovery, we often advise clients on it through our enforcement services in Saudi Arabia in Saudi Arabia and broader debt collection in Saudi Arabia work. Can I Enforce a UK Court Judgment in Saudi Arabia? A common question we hear is, can I enforce UK court judgment in Saudi Arabia? The honest answer is that it is difficult but not impossible. Saudi Arabia has no bilateral treaty with the United Kingdom for the mutual enforcement of court judgments, so a UK judgment creditor must prove reciprocity on a case-by-case basis. That can be slow and uncertain. However, if your UK dispute went through arbitration for instance, an award seated in London you can usually rely on the New York Convention, which makes recovery far more realistic. So the structure of your

How to Register a Company in Saudi Arabia: Legal Requirements for 2026

Saudi Arabia is one of the fastest-growing business markets in the world, and more investors are entering the Kingdom every month. If you are planning company registration Saudi Arabia 2026, it is important to understand the legal steps before you start. The rules have changed a lot under Vision 2030, and getting the process right from day one saves you time, money, and stress. At AlKhorayef Law Firm, we guide local founders and foreign investors through every stage of setting up a business in the Kingdom. In this guide, we explain the legal requirements, the documents you need, the timelines, and the compliance rules that apply once your company is live. Why 2026 Is a Strong Year to Set Up a Business Thanks to Vision 2030 reforms, Saudi Arabia has opened most of its economy to foreign investors. Today, 100% foreign ownership Saudi Arabia business 2026 is allowed in many sectors, including consulting, IT, manufacturing, wholesale, and retail. You no longer need a local Saudi partner for most activities, and foreign investors now enjoy equal legal treatment with Saudi nationals, including full profit repatriation. A few sectors are still restricted or sit on a “negative list,” such as media, defense, oil and gas, and certain real estate activities in Makkah and Madinah. Some regulated sectors also need extra approvals  for example, the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) for banking, the Capital Market Authority (CMA) for financial services, and the SFDA for health and food products. We always check your activity against the current rules first, because choosing the wrong classification is one of the common legal mistakes foreign investors make. Choosing the Right Legal Structure Before registration, you must pick a legal structure. The most common choice is the Limited Liability Company (LLC), because it is flexible and protects your personal assets. Under the new Companies Law, an LLC can be formed with a single shareholder (a One-Person LLC) and up to 50 partners. If you are wondering how to register LLC in Saudi Arabia, the path depends on who you are. Saudi and GCC nationals begin directly with commercial registration. Foreign investors must first get an investment license from the Ministry of Investment (MISA), then move to the commercial registration step. Other structures include a branch of a foreign company and a Regional Headquarters (RHQ) for multinationals that want a Gulf hub in Riyadh. Our corporate lawyers in Saudi Arabia help you select the structure that fits your goals, your sector, and your long-term plans. MISA Investment License Requirements for Foreigners For non-Saudi investors, the MISA investment license requirements foreigners must meet are the first real step. The MISA license (now often called the Investment Registration Certificate) is the official approval that lets a foreign company operate legally and then issue its commercial registration. To apply, you will usually need: All foreign documents must be translated into Arabic, notarized, and attested by the Saudi Embassy in your home country and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the Kingdom. Once your paperwork is complete, MISA usually issues the license within about 3 to 5 business days for standard activities, though complex cases can take longer. Good news for 2026: many MISA issuance fees remain suspended to encourage new investment. Because document attestation is strict, working with a commercial lawyer in Saudi Arabia helps you avoid rejection and delays. Minimum Capital Requirement for a Company in Saudi Arabia A common question we hear is about the minimum capital requirement company Saudi Arabia rules. Under the new Companies Law, there is no fixed statutory minimum capital for an LLC owned by Saudi or GCC investors. The law only asks that the capital be “sufficient to achieve the company’s objective.” For foreign investors, capital depends on the activity, based on MISA’s tables. In practice, service-based LLCs often start around SAR 100,000 to SAR 500,000. A 100% foreign-owned trading or wholesale-retail business faces a much higher floor  around SAR 30 million  and may need to operate in several international markets. Industrial licenses often require SAR 1 million or more, while a branch typically needs around SAR 25,000. You do not pay the full capital on day one. The corporate bank account is opened only after your commercial registration, national address, and General Manager’s residency (Iqama) are in place. We help you plan capital in a way that protects your visa quotas and banking credibility. Saudi Arabia Commercial Registration (CR) Process Steps After the MISA license, you move to commercial registration. The Saudi Arabia commercial registration CR process steps are now mostly digital and unified. This is where the Saudi Business Center company setup guide becomes useful, because the Saudi Business Center (SBC) acts as the single online platform for company formation. Our simple breakdown of how to set up a company in Saudi Arabia walks through each step in plain language. Here are the main steps: Notarization is a critical part of this stage. If you need documents certified correctly, our notary services in Saudi Arabia make sure everything is valid and accepted. Post-Registration Compliance: VAT, GOSI, and Saudization Getting your CR is not the end. Several registrations follow, and missing them can lead to penalties. We help clients understand how legal advice protects your business during this stage. ZATCA VAT registration new business Saudi Arabia rules are a key step. You must register for VAT with the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) once your taxable sales pass SAR 375,000 in any 12-month period. Registration is voluntary between SAR 187,500 and SAR 375,000. You have 30 days to register after crossing the threshold, and late registration carries a SAR 10,000 penalty. The standard VAT rate is 15%, and e-invoicing through the Fatoora system is now mandatory. Next come Nitaqat Saudization requirements new company owners must follow. Saudization is managed by the Ministry of Human Resources (MHRSD) through the Qiwa platform. Companies are graded into colored bands  Platinum, High Green, Mid Green, Low Green, and Red (the old Yellow band is gone). Small