Saudi Arabia’s Regional Headquarters (RHQ) Program invites multinational companies to base their regional management in Riyadh. For many groups the decision is commercial, but the execution is legal: licensing, registration, premises and people must be in place in the right order.
1. Confirm eligibility
Check that your group and the proposed activities meet the program’s criteria, and decide which functions the RHQ will perform.
2. Obtain the MISA licence
The RHQ licence is issued by the Ministry of Investment (MISA). Prepare constitutional documents, financial statements and board resolutions in advance.
3. Register the entity and secure premises
Complete commercial registration, then lease an office that meets the program’s substance expectations.
4. Hire and relocate staff
Plan headcount, Saudization obligations and visas early, as these often set the overall timeline.
This briefing is general information and not legal advice. Please contact us for advice on your specific situation.