Step-by-Step Guide to Issuing a Municipality License (Baladiyah) in Saudi Arabia

Business owner applying for Baladiyah license online via the Balady platform in Saudi Arabia

Table of Contents

A Municipality License (Baladiyah License) in Saudi Arabia is an official permit issued by MOMRAH that allows businesses to legally operate. To get it, you must submit your documents through the Balady portal, choose your activity, upload your location details, complete inspection, and pay the required fees.

Getting a Municipality License (Baladiyah License) is one of the first and most important steps for anyone who wants to start or legally run a business in Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re opening a shop, launching a restaurant, setting up an office, or working from home as a freelancer, this license is the official approval you need to operate in your chosen location.

But here’s the truth:

Most people find the process confusing — not because it’s difficult, but because no one clearly explains the documents required, the steps inside the Balady portal, or the inspection and zoning rules set by MOMRAH. This leads to delays, rejected applications, and a lot of wasted time.

And that’s exactly why this guide exists.

In the next few minutes, you’ll learn every single step you must follow to get your Baladiyah license approved — including the forms you need, how to apply digitally, what inspections to expect, and the common mistakes that cause applications to be rejected. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur, a foreign investor, or a Saudi business owner upgrading your operations, this breakdown is simple, up-to-date, and practical.

By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap — and you’ll know how experts like Local City Solutions can help you complete the process faster and without stress.

Let’s begin.

What Is a Municipality (Baladiyah) License?

Your Legal Gateway to Doing Business in Saudi Arabia

A Municipality License, often called the Baladiyah License, is a legal permit required to open and operate any kind of business in Saudi Arabia.

Issued by the local municipality (Baladiyah office), this license proves that your shop, office, or workspace follows local safety, health, and zoning rules.

Whether you’re launching a restaurant in Riyadh, a barber shop in Jeddah, or a freelance office in Dammam, getting this license is a must. It tells the Saudi authorities that your business:

  • Is located in an approved area,
  • Has a legal rental contract,
  • And follows hygiene and safety regulations.

In short: no Baladiyah license, no business.

Is municipality license same as CR?

A municipality (Baladiyah) license and a Commercial Registration (CR) are two different but equally important documents for your business in Saudi Arabia.

The CR is like your business’s legal ID card, showing it’s officially registered with the Ministry of Commerce and able to operate legally.

The municipality license, on the other hand, is permission from local authorities confirming your business location meets all safety, zoning, and health regulations.

Think of CR as your business’s birth certificate and the municipality license as the home approval, both necessary to run smoothly and legally in the Kingdom.

What Kind of Businesses Need a Baladiyah (Municipality) License in Saudi Arabia?

In Saudi Arabia, a Baladiyah license is a municipal permit required for any business operating from a physical location, ensuring compliance with local health, safety, and zoning regulations. Whether you have a retail shop, restaurant, office, or service outlet, obtaining this license is mandatory to legally operate.

Who needs a Baladiyah License?

  • Retail stores and shops: Businesses selling products directly to consumers.
  • Restaurants, cafés, and food outlets: Any food-serving establishments.
  • Offices and service centers: Companies offering professional or support services from a fixed location.
  • Workshops and small manufacturing units: Businesses with physical premises engaged in light industrial activities.
  • Health and wellness centers: Clinics, gyms, and spas operating from commercial spaces.
  • Commercial warehouses involved in storage and distribution.
  • Mobile vendors with fixed spots: If operating regularly from designated locations.

This license is distinct from the Commercial Registration (CR), which registers your business legally with the Ministry of Commerce. The Baladiyah license specifically certifies that your business location meets municipal rules and standards, assuring customers and authorities that your operations are safe and lawful.

Do home-based businesses need Baladiyah approval?

Home-based businesses in Saudi Arabia generally do not require a Baladiyah (municipality) license if they operate entirely online or do not involve commercial activities that attract customers to the home.

However, if your home-based business requires physical visits from clients, stock storage, or any commercial signage, you may need to seek Baladiyah approval to ensure compliance with municipal regulations.

It’s essential to check with your local Baladiyah office because rules can vary by city and activity type. Getting the right approvals not only keeps your business legal but also protects your home environment and neighborhood from unauthorized commercial disturbances. This approach helps homepreneurs understand when a license is necessary and encourages compliance without unnecessary hurdles.

Why is it important?

Without a valid Baladiyah license, your business cannot legally operate physically, risking fines or closure from municipal authorities. This permit also builds trust with customers, partners, and regulatory bodies by confirming your business adheres to required municipal standards.

Applicability for foreign investors: Foreign business owners licensed by MISA can apply for Baladiyah licenses once they have obtained their Commercial Registration, making it essential for all entrepreneurs aiming for physical business presence in Saudi Arabia.

penalty for operating without municipality license

Operating a business in Saudi Arabia without a valid municipality (Baladiyah) license is a serious offense that carries hefty penalties. Fines range from SAR 1,000 up to SAR 50,000 depending on the violation severity, with a minimum penalty recently raised to SAR 10,000 for unauthorized operations.

Besides fines, municipal authorities can shut down the business immediately and impose closure orders. Repeated violations may lead to blacklisting, legal action, or for expatriates, visa cancellation and deportation.

A grace period is usually granted to correct certain violations, but ignoring license requirements risks significant financial and legal consequences.

Securing and renewing your Baladiyah license timely is essential to avoid these penalties and operate legally in Saudi Arabia.

Government Departments You Need for the Baladiyah License in Saudi Arabia

If you want to open a shop, office, or any type of business in Saudi Arabia, you must obtain a Baladiyah license. This license is issued by the local municipality and proves that your business meets the location, safety, and legal requirements set by the government.

However, obtaining this license involves coordination with multiple government departments. Knowing which authorities are involved can help you save time, avoid delays, and ensure that your application is approved without issues.

Here are the main government departments you may need to work with during the municipality license process in Saudi Arabia:

Baladiyah (Local Municipality Office)

The Baladiyah is the main government office in charge of giving out municipality licenses. Each city or region in Saudi Arabia has its own Baladiyah office. They review your application, verify your documents, inspect your business location, and ensure that your business complies with all local regulations.

The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, or simply MoMRAH, is the government body that looks after city planning, rural development, and housing matters.

This ministry creates the national policies and standards that each local municipality must follow. This includes rules about how land can be used, making sure buildings are safe, and setting guidelines for what types of buildings can go in certain areas. Your Baladiyah application will be reviewed based on MoMRAH’s guidelines.

Ministry of Commerce (MoC)

Before you apply for a Baladiyah license, you need to obtain a Commercial Registration (CR) from the Ministry of Commerce. The CR confirms that your business is officially registered with the Saudi government. It is a mandatory step and must be completed first.

Civil Defense Department

If your business involves public access, equipment usage, or physical premises such as a restaurant, salon, warehouse, or retail store you will likely need approval from the Civil Defense. They inspect your site to ensure it meets fire safety and emergency preparedness standards before granting clearance.

When You Might Need Approval from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA)

If your business handles food, health products, medicines, or cosmetics, you will also need approval from the SFDA. This authority ensures that products sold or handled by your business meet health and safety standards. Their approval is often required before your Baladiyah license can be processed.

Understanding these departments and their roles is critical for a smooth and quick license approval. Each has specific requirements and timelines, and missing one step can cause delays or rejection.

Pre-Licensing Requirements for the Baladiyah License in Saudi Arabia

Before you begin the official application for a Baladiyah (Municipality) license, you need to meet a few important conditions. These are basic steps that every business owner must complete to ensure their application is accepted without delays.

Here’s what you need to prepare before applying:

1. Choose the Right Business Activity

Start by selecting your exact business activity, such as bakery, salon, marketing agency, or electronics shop. This must match the activity listed in your Commercial Registration (CR). The Saudi government uses official codes (called NAIC or ISIC codes) to define business categories. Picking the correct NAIC code is essential, as it affects which approvals you’ll need and where your business can be located.

2. Select a Compliant Business Location

Not every area is allowed to host every type of business. For example, you cannot open a mechanic shop in a residential neighborhood. Your chosen shop, office, or store must be in a commercially approved zone according to urban planning rules. If the location doesn’t match your activity, the municipality may reject your application.

3. Sign a Valid Tenancy Contract

You must have a rental contract for the business location. This contract must be:

  • Officially documented through the Ejar system (Saudi Arabia’s government-approved rental platform)
  • Under your company’s name
  • Valid for the period of license application and renewal

Without an Ejar-verified contract, your license request will not be processed.

4. Meet Physical Space Requirements

The municipality requires that your business location meets certain physical standards. These may include:

  • Minimum size requirements (e.g., 24 m² for salons)
  • Separate sections for storage, customer area, etc.
  • Proper waste disposal and ventilation systems
    This is especially important for businesses like restaurants, beauty centers, or clinics.

5. Get Required Approvals in Advance (If Needed)

Some businesses need extra clearances before applying. For example:

  • A restaurant needs to pass a food safety inspection to make sure everything is clean, safe, and up to standard.
  • A salon needs to get the green light from Civil Defense to ensure it meets all safety standards.
  • A grocery store may need approval from the Food Authority.

Checking these requirements early saves time later.

Taking care of these steps before submitting your Baladiyah license application helps you avoid rejections, delays, or penalties. Many applications are held up because of small issues—like using the wrong activity code or renting a location in the wrong zone.

What Documents Are Needed for a Baladiyah (Municipality) License in Saudi Arabia?

To get a Baladiyah license in Saudi Arabia in 2025, businesses must submit proof of their Commercial Registration, identity documents, premises ownership or lease, and approvals confirming compliance with municipal safety and sanitation standards. These core documents verify legal registration, location legitimacy, and adherence to regulations, enabling smooth license approval and lawful operation.

Below is the essential document checklist as per the latest 2025 guidelines:

  • Valid Commercial Registration (CR): Your official business license issued by the Ministry of Commerce, proving your business is legally registered.
  • Proof of Identity: National ID for Saudi citizens or Iqama (residence permit) for expatriates. A valid passport copy may also be required for foreign applicants.
  • Lease Agreement or Ownership Deed: Document showing legal right to operate from your business premises, such as a signed commercial lease or property ownership papers.
  • Exterior Photo of Business Premises: A clear photo showing the shop or office signboard from outside.
  • Sanitation Contract (if applicable): Proof of contract for sanitation services, especially for food establishments.
  • Safety Equipment Report: Certificate or invoice from Civil Defense confirming compliance with safety regulations if necessary for your business type.
  • Building Permit Copy: Official approval from the municipality confirming the building’s compliance with zoning regulations.
  • Additional Approvals: Dependent on business activity, e.g., health certificates for food services, environmental clearances for industrial activities.

These documents ensure the business is legally registered, operates from an authorized location, and complies with safety and municipal standards. Requirements may vary slightly based on business activity and location, so checking with the local Baladiyah office is advised. Sub

Note: 

The required documents might vary slightly depending on the nature of your business activity and location. Always check with your local Baladiyah office or online services for specific requirements.

Submitting a complete and correct set of documents not only speeds up the approval process but also ensures your business operates without legal interruptions.

6. Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Baladiyah (Municipality) License in Saudi Arabia

Before starting the steps, it’s important to understand the Baladiyah application process, which simply means submitting your business details, documents, and location information through the Balady portal for municipal approval. Below is the complete process broken down clearly.

When you apply for a Baladiyah License, the Baladiyah application process follows a clear sequence inside the Balady portal.

Here is the exact step-by-step method you’ll go through:

Step 1: Register on the Balady Portal

Visit the official website www.balady.gov.sa. Click on the login button and access your account using Absher credentials. This account will be linked to your Commercial Registration (CR), and it must reflect your official business details.

Step 2: Select the ‘Municipal License Issuance’ Service

After logging in, navigate to the “E-Services” section. Then go to “Business Licensing” and select the option to issue a new municipal license. This will open the license application form.

Step 3: Enter Your Business Information

Carefully fill in your business details:

  • Commercial Registration (CR) number
  • Registered business activity (must match your CR)
  • Location details, including the building number and city
  • Owner or manager’s contact details

Make sure your entries match the official documents to avoid rejection.

Step 4: Upload All Required Documents

Make sure to attach clear digital copies of all the needed documents, such as:

  • Commercial Registration (CR)
  • Ejar-verified tenancy contract
  • National Address certificate
  • Building completion certificate
  • Civil Defense or other approvals (if applicable)

Ensure that all files are in clear PDF format, properly scanned, and not expired.

Step 5: Pay the Licensing Fee

After submitting your application, the system will generate a payment invoice. The fees can change based on the type of business you’re starting, where it’s located, and how big the place is. Payments can be made through Mada card, SADAD, or online banking.

Step 6: Prepare for the Municipality Inspection

Once payment is made, the municipality will assign a date for a site inspection. An officer will visit your business location to check:

  • Health and safety conditions
  • Proper use of space based on your activity
  • Cleanliness and signage
  • Compliance with city regulations

Ensure your premises are ready to avoid any delays in approval.

Step 7: License Approval and Issuance

If everything is in order, you will receive your Baladiyah license digitally through the Balady portal. You can download and print your license to display at your business premises as proof of municipal compliance. This license must be clearly displayed at your business location at all times, as required by Saudi law.

Applying for a municipality license in Saudi Arabia may seem straightforward, but small errors in documentation or zoning mismatches can cause costly delays. If you prefer a hassle-free process,

Local City Solutions handles the full application from CR linking to scheduling inspections with local expertise and fast-tracked approvals.

How to Check Your KSA Municipality Baladiyah Card Online

To check your KSA Municipality Baladiyah card online, visit the Balady platform, log in to your account, and select the “My Licenses” or “License Inquiry” service. Enter your commercial registration or license details to instantly view your card status, validity, and download options—no need to visit the municipality office in person.​

How to track baladiyah application status

To track the status of your Baladiyah application in Saudi Arabia, simply log in to your account on the official Balady platform where you submitted your application. Navigate to the “My Requests” or “Application Status” section to see real-time updates, including any required actions, review progress, or approval notifications.

This online tracking system keeps you informed throughout the process without needing to visit the municipality in person, providing transparency and convenience.

7. Common Problems People Face When Applying for a Baladiyah License – And How to Fix Them

Getting a Baladiyah license in Saudi Arabia is an important step for opening a legal business. But a lot of people run into issues because of small mistakes, which can cause their application to be rejected, delay the process, or even fail inspections. Understanding these common problems in advance can help you avoid setbacks and get your license approved without hassle.

Mistake 1: Selecting the Wrong Business Activity

One of the most frequent errors is choosing a business activity that does not match what’s written in your Commercial Registration (CR). The Balady system checks your CR automatically. If the activity does not match, your application will be stopped or rejected.

Solution:

Before applying, make sure the business activity you select is exactly the same as the one in your CR. If you’re offering more than one service, list only the main one that is approved in your registration.

Mistake 2: Renting a Shop in the Wrong Zone

Each city in Saudi Arabia has specific rules about where certain businesses can operate. Some areas are zoned for residential use only, while others are reserved for commercial or mixed-use businesses. If your business is located in the wrong area, the municipality will not approve your license.

Solution:

Always confirm that the shop or office you’re renting is in an area approved for your type of activity. This check should be done before signing a lease.If you’re feeling unsure, it’s worth reaching out to someone who really knows the local zoning rules getting the right guidance early can save you a lot of trouble later.

Mistake 3: Submitting Expired or Unverified Documents

Another common issue is uploading documents that are outdated, incomplete, or not verified through the Ejar system. This includes rental contracts, electricity bills, building completion certificates, and national address registration.

Solution:

Check the expiration dates of every document. Make sure your rental contract is properly registered in the Ejar system and under your business name. Don’t rely on handwritten agreements or photocopies.

Mistake 4: Failing the Municipality Inspection

The municipality sends an inspector to visit your business location before giving the final license. Many applicants fail this inspection because the shop is not ready, not clean, or does not follow the declared business type.

Solution:

Before inspection, clean your space, put up proper signage, and make sure the activity being done at the location matches your application. For example, if you registered for a bakery, your location should look like a bakery—not an office or store.

Mistake 5: Not Getting Required External Approvals

Certain businesses need additional clearance before the municipality can issue the license. For example:

  • A restaurant needs food safety approval.
  • A salon needs Civil Defense approval.
  • A pharmacy needs approval from the health authority.

Solution:

Find out which extra approvals your business needs and apply for them early. Putting things off until the last minute can slow down your whole licensing process and cause unnecessary stress.

Why Many Applicants Struggle Without Help

The Baladiyah licensing process involves multiple steps, and even a small mistake can send you back to the beginning. Many first-time business owners in Saudi Arabia waste weeks trying to fix issues that could have been avoided with expert help.

why municipality license gets rejected

Municipality (Baladiyah) license applications can get rejected for several common reasons:

incomplete or incorrect documentation, failure to meet municipal health and safety standards, using a property not zoned for commercial activity, or submitting inaccurate business details. Additionally, if the business premises do not pass the required inspections or if the applicant does not comply with local regulations, the license may be denied.

Ensuring all documents are accurate, the location is approved for the intended business, and all municipal requirements are met can help avoid rejection.

Timeline and Cost Breakdown for a Baladiyah License in Saudi Arabia

Understanding the cost and time involved in getting a Baladiyah license is essential for anyone starting a business in Saudi Arabia. Many people jump into the process without knowing the full picture, which often leads to wasted money, delays, or rejected applications.

This section will give you a clear view of how much the license may cost and how long it usually takes to get approved.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Municipality License in Saudi Arabia?

The time needed to get your municipality license depends on the city you’re applying in and how prepared you are. If your documents are complete and correct, and your business activity is approved for your selected location, the entire process can be done fairly quickly.

Here is the average timeline:

StepEstimated Timeframe
Preparing and gathering documents2 to 5 business days
Submitting the application onlineSame day
Document review by the municipality2 to 4 business days
Scheduling a site inspection3 to 7 business days
Final approval and license issuance1 to 2 business days

Total average time: The process of obtaining a municipality license typically takes between 5 to 15 business days once all required documents are submitted correctly and the application is complete.

The timeline can vary depending on the municipality’s workload, the type of business, and whether a physical inspection is needed. Applying through the official Balady platform helps speed up processing with digital submissions and real-time tracking.

If your application needs additional approvals (for example, Civil Defense or SFDA clearance), this may add extra days to the process. Any mistakes in your paperwork can lead to significant delays in the process.

How Much Does a Baladiyah License Cost in Saudi Arabia?

The cost of issuing a Baladiyah license depends on:

  • Your business activity type
  • Size of your store or office
  • Whether extra approvals are needed
  • The city or governorate you’re operating in

Below is a breakdown of common license-related costs:

The cost of obtaining a Baladiyah (municipality) license in Saudi Arabia typically ranges from SAR 1,000 to SAR 5,000, depending on your business location, size, and activity type. This fee covers the municipal permit that certifies your business meets local regulations.

In addition to the Baladiyah fee, you must budget for your Commercial Registration with the Ministry of Commerce, which generally costs between SAR 200 and SAR 1,200 annually. Extra fees may apply for health, civil defense certifications, and special permits depending on your business sector (such as food establishments).

Chamber of Commerce membership fees range from SAR 800 to SAR 3,000 annually and are often required alongside your license. For foreign investors, an additional MISA license fee applies, starting around SAR 2,000 and varying with investment size and industry.

Keep in mind operational expenses like office rent and facility setup fees vary widely but are separate from licensing costs. Planning a budget between SAR 3,000 and SAR 10,000 for initial licensing and related official fees is a practical approach to avoid surprises.

Estimated total cost: The total estimated cost to obtain a Baladiyah license in Saudi Arabia in 2025 generally falls between SAR 3,000 and SAR 10,000. This includes the municipality licensing fees, Commercial Registration costs, Chamber of Commerce membership, and any additional permits or certifications required by your specific business activity.

These are standard estimates. Actual costs may vary slightly depending on your region, activity, and property size.

Don’t Risk Extra Costs or Delays

Most business owners in Saudi Arabia face delays because of:

  • Unverified rental contracts
  • Mismatched business activity codes
  • Missing government clearances
  • Choosing the wrong commercial location

Avoiding these issues can save thousands of riyals and weeks of your time.

That’s why Local City Solutions offers complete support for:

  • Fee calculations based on your business type
  • Choosing compliant shop locations
  • Getting pre-approvals before inspection
  • Handling online submission and follow-ups

We make sure your Baladiyah license in Saudi Arabia is approved quickly, with no extra costs or paperwork errors.

Renewing and Modifying a Municipality License in Saudi Arabia

Once your business is up and running, your work with the Baladiyah doesn’t end. Every municipality license in Saudi Arabia comes with an expiry date, and it’s your responsibility to renew it on time. You may also need to update or modify your license if your business changes — such as moving to a new location or adding a new activity.

Here’s everything you need to know about renewing or changing your Baladiyah license.

How to Renew a Baladiyah License

A Baladiyah license usually lasts for one year. If you don’t renew it on time, you might run into some problems like:

  • Late fees
  • Fines from the municipality
  • Suspension of business activities
  • Difficulty renewing your Commercial Registration (CR)

The good news is that renewing your municipality license is easy if your documents are still valid.

Steps to Renew the License:

  1. Log in to the Balady portal
  2. Select “Renew Municipal License”
  3. Make sure to upload all the necessary documents again, like your Ejar contract, updated commercial registration (CR), and anything else that’s needed.
  4. Pay the renewal fee
  5. Wait for the updated license to be issued digitally

You should begin the process at least 2–3 weeks before the expiry date to avoid service interruptions.

How to Modify a Municipality License

If your business goes through any of the following changes, you need to update your license:

  • Changing your business activity (for example, from a coffee shop to a bakery)
  • Shifting to a new shop or office location
  • Expanding the size of your business space
  • Changing ownership or business structure

Steps to Modify the License:

  1. Log in to the Balady system
  2. Select “Modify License”
  3. Enter the new details (activity, address, owner info)
  4. Upload updated documents (new Ejar contract, CR, approvals if needed)
  5. Submit the changes for municipality review
  6. Pay the modification fee

The municipality may schedule another inspection if the changes are major, such as a move to a new building or an activity that requires fresh Civil Defense approval.

Keep Your Business Compliant

Many businesses in Saudi Arabia forget to renew or update their license, especially after moving locations or expanding services. This can lead to penalties, closure orders, or rejection when renewing your CR.

Is Plastic Card Printing Required for Baladiyah Renewal?

The physical Baladiyah license card is indeed issued as a plastic-printed card to business owners upon initial licensing or renewal. This durable card serves as official proof of your municipality license and must be displayed prominently at your business premises. During the renewal process, a new plastic card is printed reflecting the updated validity period and any changes to your license details.

Having the physical card helps municipal inspectors easily verify your license compliance during site visits. Ensure you collect your renewed card either by visiting the municipal office or through authorized digital kiosks if available.

Digitalization of Municipal Services – The Balady Platform

Saudi Arabia has made strong progress in simplifying government services, and one of the best examples of this is the Balady platform. Managed by the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, this digital system allows business owners to apply for, renew, and manage their municipality licenses entirely online.

If you are planning to start a business in Saudi Arabia, learning how to use the Balady platform can save you time, money, and unnecessary visits to government offices.

What Is the Balady Platform?

The Balady platform is the official government portal where individuals and companies can:

  • Apply for a new Baladiyah license
  • Renew an existing license
  • Modify business information (like address or activity)
  • Schedule municipal inspections
  • Pay license and inspection fees online
  • Track application status

This digital platform has replaced most of the paperwork and in-person visits that were previously required to get municipal approval.

Key Features of the Balady Platform

  1. Online Application Submission

You can fill out your full license application, upload documents, and submit everything from your computer or mobile.

  1. Real-Time Application Tracking

Once your request is submitted, you can track its progress, receive updates, and respond to comments or required corrections.

  1. Payment Integration

Paying license fees, inspection costs, and fines can all be done securely through SADAD, Mada card, or online banking, without visiting a Baladiyah office.

  1. Integration with Other Government Systems

The Balady platform is connected to:

  • Absher (for identity verification)
  • Ejar system (for tenancy contracts)
  • Ministry of Commerce (for CR validation)
  • National Address system (for location verification)
  1. Multilingual Interface

The platform is available in both Arabic and English, making it accessible to Saudi nationals and expatriate business owners alike.

Why the Balady Platform Matters for Business Owners

For many entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia, the Balady system has made starting and managing a business faster and easier than ever before. What once took several weeks of visits and manual forms can now be handled in just a few clicks.

However, while the process is digital, it still requires careful attention to detail. One small mistake — like selecting the wrong activity code or uploading an outdated document — can cause delays or rejection.

  • Create and manage their Balady accounts
  • Submit accurate, complete applications
  • Fix rejected or incomplete forms
  • Coordinate digital payments and scheduling

With our help, you can take full advantage of the digital system without worrying about the technical steps or approvals.

Make Your Business Official the Right Way

Starting a business is a big step, and in Saudi Arabia, getting your Baladiyah (municipality) license is a legal requirement you simply can’t skip. It’s the official permission from your city that allows you to open your doors and operate your business with confidence.

This guide has walked you through the full process from understanding what the license is, to preparing documents, applying online through the Balady platform, and passing the final inspection.

While the system has become faster and more digital, many people still face delays due to missing documents, zoning issues, or choosing the wrong activity. These are small errors, but they can cause weeks of delay or even rejection.

That’s why smart entrepreneurs choose to work with Local City Solutions. We don’t just give advice — we take full responsibility for managing your application, collecting documents, checking zoning, handling digital forms, and ensuring everything is approved the first time.

When You Work with Us, You Get:

  • Local knowledge of municipality rules in every Saudi city
  • Expert handling of the Balady platform
  • Full preparation for inspections and approvals
  • Support for renewals, updates, and activity changes
  • Clear, honest communication at every step

How Local City Solutions Helps You Get Your Baladiyah License Easily

Applying for a Baladiyah license in Saudi Arabia can be a smooth process — if you know what you’re doing. But for many entrepreneurs, especially those applying for the first time, the steps can be confusing. Rules vary by city, and government systems often require exact formatting, correct documentation, and activity matching.

This is where Local City Solutions makes all the difference.

We provide end-to-end assistance to help individuals and companies get their municipality license approved without delay. From handling paperwork to guiding you through inspections, our job is to make the process faster, easier, and fully compliant.

What We Do for You

1. Initial Consultation and Business Activity Review

We help you select the correct business activity code that matches your goals and ensures it’s compatible with your Commercial Registration (CR). Choosing the right activity from the start avoids rejections later.

2. Location Verification and Rental Support

Before you rent any commercial space, we verify if your business type is allowed in that location. This prevents you from investing in a shop that’s not approved by the municipality.

3. Document Preparation and Translation

We organize all necessary documents, ensure they are valid, and help translate them into Arabic (if needed). Whether it’s your Ejar contract, building certificate, or ID copies, we prepare everything to match the municipality’s exact format.

4. Balady Portal Account Creation and Application Submission

We handle the full online application process through the Balady platform — from registration to uploading documents, selecting services, and submitting your request.

5. Payment Handling and Fee Calculations

We assist in reviewing your license fees, processing payments securely, and confirming government receipts, so you don’t miss anything.

6. Inspection Coordination and Site Readiness

Our team prepares your location for the municipal inspection and schedules the visit. We guide you on how to pass inspection smoothly by ensuring cleanliness, signage, and space use are all in order.

7. Follow-Up and Fast Approvals

We follow up with the municipality for you, correct any returned applications, and keep your approval on track without unnecessary waiting.

Who Do We Help?

We work with:

  • Saudi nationals starting new businesses
  • Expatriates opening shops or offices
  • Freelancers needing legal setup
  • Small business owners needing renewals
  • Growing companies expanding into new locations

Whether you’re opening a men’s salon in Riyadh, a grocery shop in Jeddah, or a digital agency in Dammam, our local team knows the specific rules in your city — and we handle the process accordingly.

Let Us Handle the Hassle

Government rules can change, systems may be hard to navigate, and one missing document can delay your plans. Instead of spending weeks figuring it out, let Local City Solutions take care of everything. We make sure your business is legally registered, properly licensed, and ready to operate in full compliance.