THE KINGDOMOF SAUDI ARABIA
Investing in Saudi Arabia’s
Special Economic Zones

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunities

TABLE OFCONTENTSE C Z A . G O V. S A

Foreword

04

01

Introducing the Saudi Arabian Economy
An investment powerhouse
At the center of global trade

10
14

02

Investing in Saudi Arabia
The investor experience andbusiness environment
Accessing investor support

03

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Network of SEZs
Unlock a new route to global markets
King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) SEZ
Ras Al-Khair SEZ
Jazan SEZ
Cloud Computing SEZ
Riyadh Integrated Special Logistics Zone
Key contacts

26
28

34
38
46
54
62
68
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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Foreword

It is with great pleasure that we present thisoverview of the competitive investment landscapewithin Saudi Arabia, including details of our firstSpecial Economic Zones and the opportunities thatthey create.
Designed in consultation
with global investors and with their needs atheart, our Special Economic Zones are designed toaccelerate the development of
key sectors within Saudi Arabia.
The tailored environment they create, combinedwith a supportive ecosystem, will allow investors
from across the world to establish a foothold andexpand rapidly.
The development of these zones comes against the
backdrop of a much broader transformation of oureconomy.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
seeks to unlock the potential of the private sector
to drive growth and innovation. We have already
implemented sweeping reforms to open our
economy and enhance competitiveness — and theseSpecial Economic Zones will
help take these efforts tothe next level.

at the scale of Saudi Arabia. Not only do we offera thriving domestic market — the fastest growing
economy in the G20 last year — but through ourworld class infrastructure and favorable geographic
location we provide investors with the opportunity
to connect to key global value chains.
In a challenging and uncertain global economy, weoffer unmatched opportunities and a governmentthat is fully committed to doing whatever it takes tohelp you access these.

His Excellency Khalid A. Al Falih​

Minister of Investment
andChairman of the Board of Directors of ECZA

We will ensure that your experience of setting up in
Saudi Arabia is seamless — and we will support you
every step of the way as you expand and grow yourbusiness over the longer term.
We welcome you to the Kingdom, and we lookforward to being your partner as you set out for theexciting next phase of your story.

This is why, for ambitious global companies looking
to innovate and grow, there are few opportunities

04

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Foreword

I am delighted to present this overview of thefirst wave of Special Economic Zones within Saudi
Arabia.
Diversifying the Kingdom’s economy lies at theheart of Vision 2030, and we are placing greatemphasis on implementing a national SEZ agenda
and developing a network of competitive zones, tostrengthen the investment environment across awide range of industry sectors.
These SEZs have been designed to complement
existing strengths in the Kingdom’s economy andcreate new investment opportunities in a rapidly
evolving global economy. The benefits available
to investors within each of the zones will enableindustries to build regional competitiveness andglobal scale from the Kingdom.

step of the investment process, from a streamlined
application and approval process to an integrated
one-stop-shop service, acting as the only resource
an investor will need to access all SEZ services andsupport. Establishing a business in the Kingdom has
never been easier.
As the Kingdom’s economy
grows and investor’s needs evolve, we plan toexpand our network of SEZs in the future.

Nabil Khojah
Secretary General Economic Cities
andSpecial Zones Authority (ECZA)

We look forward to engaging
with you and sincerely hope that you decide tolocate and grow your business in the futurefrom one of our locations.
A warm welcome awaits you.

Our new SEZs span strategic locations throughout
the Kingdom, offering compelling propositions
across key, forward-looking industries. Withrobust infrastructure and connectivity, supportive
regulation, attractive incentives, competitive costs,
and abundant local talent, we have created anenvironment that maximizes opportunity while
minimizing risk for businesses.
We are dedicated to supporting investors at every

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INTRODUCING THE
SAUDI ARABIANECONOMYThe Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

An investment powerhouseat the heart of the Middle East2015
(before Vision 2030)

Saudi Arabia is striving to become a global investment powerhouse.
This ambition is centred around the development of a vibrant society,a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation.
Enabled by Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s socio-economic transformation isunleashing growth opportunities across several promising sectors and regions.
A network of Special Economic Zones in exceptional and competitive locationsin Saudi Arabia provides investors with a wealth of untapped opportunities forbusiness growth and success.

Non- oilrevenues

USD

44bn

110bn

USD

USD

8.1bn

19.3 bn

Number of factories

7,206

10,518factories

factories

15

30

Participationof women in thelabour force

Published scientificresearch papers from
Saudi institutions

10

USD

Value of FDI in
Saudi Arabia(annual flow)

Time to establish
companies and issuecommercial registers

As the various strategies and reforms of Vision 2030 are
implemented, the Kingdom can already boast impressive
results. Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming a
global investment powerhouse. Join us!

2022

*2021

days by visiting 8
government entities

minutesin one step online

19.4%

37%

19,14546,932*2017

paperspapers11

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Macroeconomic
Strengths

GrowthInvestment Stability

8.7%$19.3bn

2nd

GDP growthin 2022

FDI inflows
in 2021

lowest in debt to
GDP ratio among
G20 countries

5.4%

25%

$28bn

non-oil GDP
growth in 2022

Gross Fixed Capital
Formation (GFCF)
share of GDP

budget surplus
in 2022$460 bn
Total reserve
assets in 2022

Source: IMF/World Bank Database, ‘Foreign Direct Investment, Net Inflows’; Saudi Gazette, ‘FDI inflows jump
%10.7 in Q3 of 2022’, Feb 2023; Trading Economics, ‘Country List Government Debt to GDP, G20’; ArabianBusiness, ‘Saudi Arabia records 27$bn budget surplus, forecasts 328$bn revenue next year’, Dec 2022; WorldBank & IMF datasets on total reserve assets

12

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Strategic Global Location

A connected economy sittingat the heart of global trade
Backed by its formidable foundations in industry, education andinfrastructure, the Kingdom has the ideal business environment
for your company to grow and thrive.

Take advantage of theKingdom’s strategic global
location and excellent connectivity
Transport and logistics infrastructure is highly developed and the growing
network of SEZ sites present numerous opportunities for supply chain integration,
R&D, manufacturing and distribution activities.

13%
13% of global tradepasses through the
Red Sea.

70%
Accessto 70% of the world’s
population within
8 hours’ flight time.

10 seaports processing over
20m 20ft containers in 2022
The Middle East’s largest
maritime network.

$100bn plan to grow theKingdom’s air cargo capacity
to more than 4.5m tons per yearby 2030.

Convenient connectivity acrossthe Kingdom provided
by 5,330km of railways (2022).

1st worldwide for roadconnectivity by WEF,
the Kingdom has over 200,000kmof roads (2022).

Source: Arab News, ‘Saudi Arabia aiming for 100$bn aviation investment; launch new airline:
Minister Saleh Al-Jasser’, May 2022; WEF, ‘Global Competitiveness Report, 2020’; DLCA, Saudi Arabia Road Network’

14

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Leading Financial Sector

Competitive Cost of Doing Business

Tap into the Kingdom’s leading
financial sector and benefit froma resilient banking system

Benefit from competitive costof doing business across energy,
property and utilities

Saudi Arabia benefits from a mature and historically stable financial services sector, and a strong
capital markets infrastructure. Looking forward, the sector will act as a platform for future economic
growth within the Kingdom, providing access to a wide range of of finance and growth capital necessary
to support investor requirements. The sector is rapidly evolving, driven by a rapid rise in FinTech activities,
providing cutting edge services that will further enhance the investor experience.

Whilst Saudi Arabia is an affluent and growing global economy, its abundance of natural resources meansthat businesses here can benefit from highly competitive utility costs (including water, electricity and gas).

2nd$1.3tnlowest debt to GDP ratio
within G20

estimated total credit demandby 2030 – sign of high economic
activity and growth

88%

5th

banking sector assets to GDP

in GDP per capita (PPP)
among G20 countries

54%

140+

Ratio of private sector
credit balances to GDP

Fintech companies active in theKingdom

Source: CEIC, ‘Saudi Arabia Private Debt: % of Nominal GDP’; Invest Saudi, ‘Macroeconomic Overview’;‘Leading Financial Sector’; Fintech Saudi, Annual Report 2022-2021

16This is complemented by large areas of developable land and existing high-grade office and industrial
locations, again at very competitive rates when compared to other GCC and developed economies.

$0.27$1.1-$2.2$0.5-$1.4$1.27$0.049$15.26

Starting land for leaseprice per sqm

price of treated water per cubic
meter (based on region & volume)

price of power per kwh forindustrial sector

price of drinking water per cubic
meter (based on region & volume)

price of natural gas per million
BTUs (British Thermal Unit)

price of diesel per barrel

Source: Invest Saudi, ‘Attractive Property Solutions’.

17The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Skilled Workforce

Expanding Quality of Life

Harness a young and skilled workforce,backed by government commitment toeducation and excellence

Experience unparalleled quality of life,
advanced healthcare, and acommitment to sustainability

As the Kingdom progresses with its large-scale reforms and economic diversification, it is supported bya rich heritage of investing in its people. Expenditure on education accounts for 17% of government spending
and the resulting workforce is highly skilled and proficient across a range of sectors.

As integral parts of Vision 2030, quality of life and improved healthcare for all are being driven bydedicated strategies. Each of these strategies are seeing widespread reforms and results throughout
the Kingdom, improving further the daily lives of residents and visitors in the country.

A large percentage of Saudis also study overseas before returning to the Kingdom. This meansthat our workforce has excellent language skills and experience of international practices.

Additionally, the Kingdom is embarking on sweeping efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

9th

Globally for Digital
Skills (2020) according toWorld Economic Forum

8 placesto 24th

#1

25th

1st

$50.3bn

10bn

35%

10%

70,5988th

15th

among GCC in Government
expenditure on Education sector
as % of GDP in 2020

Growth in Saudi
workforce (2021-22)

Fastest growing tourism destination in
the G20 (121% in 2022)

Ranking in the UN’s World
Happiness Report 2022

In world competitiveness ranking (2022)

Education sector budget
allocated in 2023

Overseas scholarships for
Saudi students (2019)

Trees to be planted across Saudi
Arabiaby 2030

In the world for police service
reliability (2022)

Reduction in carbon emissions by2030. Net zero by 2060

Globally for low
organized crime (2022)

Source: UNWTO, ‘World Tourism Barometer’; Invest Saudi, ‘Expanding Quality of Life’; Independent,‘Saudi Arabia doubles its carbon emissions reduction target for 2030’, Oct 2021; World Happiness Report 2022

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunities

Ambitious Reforms

Ambitious reforms, driven by a suite ofstrategic initiatives, are creating gamechanging opportunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Game Changing Opportunities

Global Supply Chain Resilience Initiative
Putting Saudi Arabia at the center of the
global value chains of the future

Spearheaded by the government’s large-scale and highly ambitious Vision 2030 program,
Saudi Arabia is in the process of widespread economic and social reform.

Saudi Green Initiative

There have been over 600 reforms undertaken in recent years to improve the businessenvironment and create opportunity for foreign investors, while putting the Kingdom at thecenter of the global value chains of the future.

Uniting the country to address theclimate challenge

Saudi Arabia has developed a range of strategic initiatives and programs designed to drive
the success of Vision 2030. Each strategy focuses on specific areas of business, industry andenvironment to increase the Kingdom’s competitiveness and position on the global stage.
The SEZs will help to achieve these key strategic initiatives by attracting quality FDI anddiversifying the economy while supporting strategic sectors.

Ambitious.
Vibrant. Thriving.
Driving holistic
economic growthacross the Kingdom.

National Industrial Clusters
Development Program
Stimulating the establishment and developmentof five industries in the Kingdom:
Manufacture of cars and their parts
Metals and steel industry
Solar energy industry
Plastic and packaging materials industry
Home appliances industry

Digital Economy Policy
Setting out guiding principles for government
agencies to promote the digital economy throughtheir respective specialties and mandates, with thegoal of achieving sustainable economic growth andcreating and maintaining competitive advantages
for the Kingdom

Labor Market Initiative
Focusing on bringing about radical reforms in
the labor market, including packages of initiatives,to increase the rate of economic participation,
raising skills and productivity and improving
market efficiency
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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Game Changing Opportunities

Placing the Kingdom at thecenter of the global value
chains of the future
The Global Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (GSCRI) aims to
make Saudi Arabia the location of choice for leading global
industrial companies looking to drive competitive advantage andimprove business resilience.

Investors boosting supply chain
attractiveness in the Kingdom can avail
themselves of several incentives.
SEZs will position Saudi Arabia at theheart of global value chains through thedevelopment of wide clusters, linked to
global supply chains through leading
logistics hubs.

$10.7bnof FDI to be attracted
through GSCRI within
the first two years

The initiative will help to overcome the current challenges faced
by global supply chains and will support the growth of key
sectors and value chains.

Four investment
themes underpin GSCRI

Sustainability andClimate Change

Global Supply
Diversification

22

Future Industry
Enablement

Advanced
Manufacturing

Enabling investors
from all sectors tobenefit from theKingdom’s resources
and capabilities.

$2.7bnof incentives tobe disbursed
through GSCRI

TOP 15

Helping the Kingdom
achieve its aspirations
to be a top 15 global
economy by 2030

23

INVESTING
IN SAUDI ARABIAThe Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Benefit from a developed
and thriving ecosystem ready tosupport your investment

A continually improving
investor experience andbusiness environment

Saudi Arabia’s SEZ ecosystem is dedicated to facilitating investment and promoting economic diversification.
Through collaboration between various government entities, they aim to set a new investment standard,create seamless investment processes, and accelerate growth in multiple sectors.

In partnership with the wider government, Economic Cities and Special Zones Authorities (ECZA) is
activating key regulations that build on existing Saudi law to create a truly best-in-class experiencethroughout your investment journey in our SEZs

The Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority (ECZA) is at the forefront of this agenda aimed
at attracting international and domestic investors, and has implemented various measures to makesure that the SEZ network is attractive and competitive for them.

Core regulations benchmarked againstinternational best practices to enable aworld-class business environment

SEZs designed to attract entire industries
and value chains, ensuring a dynamic
and innovative environment for future
investors.

To ensure the ongoing competitivenessand drive operational excellence within thezones, highly detailed and comprehensive
blueprints will be seamlessly integrated

26

Cross-government agreements
established to activate incentives andregulations, strengthening the SEZ
business environment.

An integrated Government services
platform (One Stop Shop) implemented
to streamline, facilitate, and simplify
processes for investors.​

Best-practice companies regulation
provides clarity on establishment,
company status, share capital, debt,
management, accounts and liquidation.

Greater protection andtransparency on tax due to
Saudi Arabia’s 30 double
taxation agreements.

A simplified licensing process, obtaining
the necessary company licensing throughthe SEZ one stop shop (OSS), reducing
your touchpoints with different entities.

Locating within an SEZ allows
companies to avail of unrestricted
capital repatriation.

Labor regulations and conditions that
support business growth, including
standardized contracts and the ability totransfer staff across different companies
within a zone.

A single, overarching Intellectual
Property Rights regulation,building on the Kingdom’s ranksof 35/129 for Intellectual Property
Rights and 3/132 for Ease ofProtecting Minority Investors.

Import/Export regulations that simplify
the distribution of many products,
supporting a seamless flow of goods
in and out of SEZs.

Security and stability throughReal Estate and Property
regulations that safeguard
increases to rent and ensure
fair treatment by landlords.

Robust safeguards for arbitration, including validity of the agreement, qualification andappointment of arbitrators, settlement and enforcement of the awards, and grounds forchallenging awards, aligned with local or international arbitration centers.

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Access attractive economic
incentives across the SEZ network

Investors are supported in a clearly
defined application and approval process

Investors will be eligible for a selection of competitive commercial
incentives dependent on zone and sector

International best practices have been incorporated into the company
application and approval process to provide a quick and simple journeyComplete andsign letter ofassignment on IGS
for a representative

Corporate Income
Tax Reductions

Obtain Attestations of
documents from relevant
government entities
Variety of withholding
tax exemptions

Flexible and supportive
regulations aroundforeign talent

Select up to 5commercial names

Competitive
incentives

Complete application, pay
fees and submit licensing
and registration forms
Confirm land
assignment

Deferred custom duties
on goods entered to the
SEZ

VAT exemptions basedon sector/ activity
criteria
Exemption from operational feesfor employees and their families
within SEZ

28

Complete Articles
of Associations
Receive licences
and registration
certificates

29The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Set up your businessthrough a seamless,integrated One Stop Shop
The One Stop Shop (OSS) will be a single window that provides you with comprehensive government, andnon-government services, to make it easy and fast for you to benefit from the Special Economic Zones.

The only resource an investor needs toaccess Special Economic Zone services
and support
Business

Urban Planning
Services

Municipality
Services
Property
Development

Community
Management
Services

30

•
•
•
•

City plan
Local plan
Large development plan
Site plan

•
•
•
•
•
•

Land & project registration
Mobilization & enabling works
Construction permit
Handover permit
Fit-out/operations permit
Pre-qualification••

Community services
Owners’ association services

Real Estate
Services••••

Property registration
Sales
Leasing
Mortgage & covenants

Investor inquiry
Create account••Investor inquiry
Create accountCompany
Licensing &Registration

•
•
•
•
•
•

Licensing & registration
Company renewal
Company amendment
Company deregistration
Authentication & admin
Business permit

Specialized
Services••

Specialized services
Port services

Employment
Services••

Employment & visas
Employment mediation

Tax & Customs
Services••

Tax services
Customs services

Legal &
Compliance
Services••

Arbitration, mediationand protection services
Business compliance

Residential
Services•

Access approval

Residential

31

SAUDI ARABIA’SGROWING NETWORKOF SPECIAL
ECONOMIC ZONESThe Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Unlock a new route to global
markets at one of Saudi Arabia’s
Special Economic Zones

Locations:To accelerate economic diversification and create a new route for investors
to do business in the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia has launched its first fiveSpecial Economic Zones with special commercial regulations.
In launching these zones, which support a wide range of industry sectors
and business activities, the Kingdom offers a platform for investors toaccelerate their regional and international growth through a globallyconnected market.

Cloud Computing Special
Economic Zone

The first five Special Economic Zones are:King Abdullah
Economic
City Special
Economic Zone

Ras Al-Khair
SpecialEconomic
Zone

Jazan
SpecialEconomic
Zone

Cloud
ComputingSpecialEconomic Zone

Ras Al-Khair
Special Economic Zone
RiyadhIntegrated
Special Logistics
Zone

King Abdullah Economic
City Special Economic Zone

Riyadh Integrated Special
Logistics Zone (RISLZ)

Jazan Special
Economic Zone

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunities

Harness game-changing
opportunities and tap into vibrantand growing clusters across future
forward industries
Seize the opportunities within the first wave of Special Economic Zones and join leading global
players to accelerate, innovate and grow the established and emerging clusters and industries
across the Kingdom.

36

E C Z A . G O V. S A

Accelerate yourbusiness and turbocharge the region’s
first end-to-end EV
and automotive
cluster

Seize theopportunity tolocalize end-to-end
maritime value
chainsTake advantage ofthe region’s foodsecurity agenda
by increasing
production in theKingdomJoin a communityand grow thecloud computing
sector acrossSaudi Arabia

Establish yourself in
Saudi Arabia’s own
Silicon Valley –home to emerging
and disruptive
digital technologies

Power the futureof healthcare
through MedTech
innovations
and devices

Be at the forefrontof innovation forregional shiprepairs
and maintenance

Embed theKingdom’s mining
and metals industry
into globa
value chains

Ideally position
yourself in a
growing regional
hub for logistics

Support national,
regional and global
ambitions for theshift to Net Zero

Locate within
Saudi Arabia’s
primary gateway
to Africa

Access abundantand highly skilledworkforce acrossthe SEZ network

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

King Abdullah
Economic City
(KAEC) SEZ

Benefit from a zone with a unique geostrategic
location on the Red Sea, 13% of global tradepasses through the Red Sea, which means
your company can easily connect with global
supply chains here, utilizing existing, world-classinfrastructure and the world’s most efficient port
(according to the World Bank in 2021).

Key location information

Leverage robust and established utilities assets
in the wider economic city including gas, power,
water and sewage and accelerate your growthwith unmatched economic incentives.

Focus Sectors

A strategic location for
global value chains

Connecting with the wider Kingdom is effortless
thanks to high speed railway. A 450km electricrailway provides fast, convenient, reliable and safe
travel using state-of-the-art technologies.
Located less than 90 minutes from King AbdulazizInternational Airport (Jeddah Airport) and from
Jeddah, a vibrant city of 4 million people, KAECSEZ gives you ready access to a highly skilledworkforce and a wide range of cultural and leisureactivities to maintain a high quality of life.

38

Province: Makkah
Size of the zone: 60km2
Located at the heart of the Red Sea
and close to Africa markets

•
•
•
•
•
•

Automobile supply chain and assembly
Consumer goods
ICT (Electronic light manufacturing)
Pharmaceuticals
MedTech
Logistics

Contact Information
Email: kaecsez@kaec.net ​Website: https://www.kaec.net/kaecsez/

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunities

Access an unparalleledgeostrategic location at theheart of global trade routes
Gain unrivalled access to key global markets through KAEC’s position along the Red Sea andestablish an ideal platform from which to access Europe, Africa and Asia.
Situated along a key maritime route of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and connected to the rest of
the Kingdom, locate your business at an unparalleled gateway to local, regional and global markets.
KAEC SEZ is anchored by Saudi Arabia’s newest, full-service commercial port - King Abdullah Port. Boasting
the facilities to service bulk & general cargo (30 mn tons per annum), as well as a Roll on/Roll Off terminal(1.5 mn vehicles per annum), the port can efficiently fulfill all of your business needs.
With a smart gate system and port community system, you can be sure of the latest intelligent
and secure technology systems at your disposal.

E C Z A . G O V. S A

13%

1st

62%

up to
18m

Of global tradethrough the Red Sea

most efficient
port globallyof the world’s
population within 6 hours

Berth depths

31%

25m

of global GDP
within 6 hours

20ft container capacity

Haramain Railway

Highway Network

To Airport

King Abdulla Port
KAUSTLand Bridge (Future)

Source: King Abdullah Economic City Special Economic Zone brochure, Oct 2022;
The Container Port Performance Index 2021, May 2022

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Utilize world-class infrastructure
and access high growth sectors

Sectors of opportunity

KAEC offers top-of-the-line utilities infrastructure to support current and future business requirements.

Immerse yourself in a growing ecosystem.

Accelerate your business and be part of the region’s firstend-to-end EV and Automotive cluster.

US$ 869bn
Potential global EV market
size by 2027
Plans in place to provide
abundant electrical supply
including over 29GWh ofclean power annually.

Potable and process watersupply, with distribution at
a 1.5 bar minimum.

The Gas Zone will supply
investors with natural gas ata significant cost advantage.

869
350

x2.5
2021

2027

Be part of a new and vibrant
MedTech cluster, where innovations
will power the future of healthcare.
Wide portfolio of telecoms
services with a state-of-theart fiber network.

Reliable sewage networks,
including a membranebio-reactor plant.

Seize the opportunity to drive import substitution andgain access to a growing local and global market forexport, utilizing KAEC’s world-class facilities.

US$ 769bn

Potential global MedTech
market size by 2027
Sources: Zawya, Saudi’s King Abdullah Economic City announces hybrid solar power farm project’,Aug 2022; Statista Mobility Market Outlook, September 2022; Statista Medical Devices Report 2021

42

769
520

x1.5
2021

2027

43

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Investing in KAEC SEZ provides
access to unparalleled economic
incentives​to drive the successof your businessAlongside the supply of world-leading infrastructure and utilities, KAEC SEZ offers uniquecommercial incentives as foundations for success for investors and companies

5% Corporate Income Tax
for up to 20 years

0% withholding tax permanently forrepatriation of profits from SEZ into
foreign countries

0% customs duties deferralfor goods inside the SEZ

Flexible and supportive regulations
around foreign talent during first 5 years

0% VAT for all intra-SEZ goods
exchanged within the zone
and between zones

Expat levy ensuring fees exemption
for employees and their families inthe zone

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunities

Ras Al-Khair
Special Economic
Zone
Establish your businesswithin a global powerhousein the maritime industries

E C Z A . G O V. S A

Position yourself at the center of the Arabian Gulf,
with an abundant supply of industrial talent and aquick and efficient multimodal transport system toconnect your operation into global markets.
Be at the forefront of innovation. Benefit from theKingdom’s ambitions to localize end-to-end supply
chains and create a docking point for regional ship
repairs and maintenance.
Ras Al-Khair Special Economic Zone is buildingon established maritime industries in the area
to grow this cluster and become a key regional
player, driving towards Saudi Arabia’s targetof developing a US14$B maritime industry.
Conveniently located near Ras Al-Khair Port,
the Kingdom’s newest industrial port, with thecapacity to handle bulk cargo and serving morethan 100 manufacturing projects. The port canaccommodate any size of ship due to its depth.

Key location information
Province: Eastern Province
Size of the zone: 20km2
Located in Ras Al-Khair Industrial city,
giving access to global markets
Focus Sectors••

Shipbuilding and MRO
Rig platforms and MRO

Contact Information
Email: rkez.info@rcjy.gov.sa
Website: www.rcjy.gov.sa

Source: Mawani, Saudi Ports Authority,‘Ras Al-Khair Port’.

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Position yourself at the centerof the Arabian Gulf - access amultimodal transport system

Access the largest and mosttechnically advanced maritime
yard in the MENA region

North-South Rail
Direct rail links to the Kingdom’s mines
via the North-South Line gives you
unrivalled access to key input materials.
And from King Salman Port, tap into thebusiest oil and gas traffic and operationsin the region.

Ras Al-Khair SEZ will host the most comprehensive, state-of-the-art
shipyard and fully integrated offshore cluster, to supply end-to-end
maritime manufacturing services.
Ras Al-Khair’s shipyard, the largest in the MENA region, has thecapability to provide newbuild and maintenance services, repair andoverhaul services for offshore support vessels, jackup rigs, very large
crude carriers (VLCCs) and bulk carriers.

100 km From the vibrantcity of Jubail
12 million square
meters<2 hours To Saudi Arabia’s thirdlargest airport, King Fahd International
Airport, providing connectivity to 43
local and international destinations.
10 million passengers$10 billion of off takeagreements over
10 years
4 new offshore rigs
43 vessels

Innovate and collaborate
to build the maritime
capabilities of the future
Sources: King Fahd International Airport, ‘About King Fahd International Airport’; IMI ‘International Maritime Industries
signs agreement with Keppel LeTourneau to collaborate on offshore rigs’, May 22; Offshore Mag, ‘Second IMI jackup
nears completion in Saudi Arabia’, Oct 22.

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Sectors of opportunity

Access an advanced maritime
infrastructure and accelerate
your growthEstablish yourself in a Zone with ambitions to localize end-to-end maritime value chains.
70% of ships produced in Ras Al-Khair Special Economic Zone will supply regional markets.
Tier 2 & 3 manufacturers discussing localizing supply chains for steel production and cranes manufacturing.
Benefit from access to the Kingdom’s 2nd largest aluminum facility and access the raw materials you need.

US$ 162bn
Potential global maritime industry
market opportunity by 2023

Access state-of-the-art
technologies including AI,
biometrics and IoT

Benefit from high-quality
products and efficientschedules

Benefit from green products,
materials and renewableenergy sources

150
2020

162

+8%
2023

Be at the forefront of innovation and accelerate the Kingdom’s ambitions to create a docking point
for regional ship repairs and maintenance.
Access internationallycompetitive prices

Take advantage ofinnovative lifecycle
management offerings

With the International Maritime Industries joint venture in place, the zone will produce 3 ships, 15 service
vessels and 4 rigs per year. Be part of a dynamic, global cluster and lead the innovations in new fuels
and shipbuilding.

US$ 39bn
Potential global ship repairsmarket size by 202530
Sources: Ras Al-Khair Special Economic Zone, Fortune Business Insights on global marine vessel market
size after COVID-19; Business Research company

50

2020

39

+30%

2025

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Investing in Ras Al-Khair SEZ provides
access to unparalleled economic
incentives​to drive the successof your businessIn addition to the various assets and benefits already listed, Ras Al-Khair Special Economic Zone sets itself
apart from the competition through a range of SEZ incentives.

5% Corporate Income Tax
for up to 20 years

0% withholding tax permanently forrepatriation of profits from SEZ into
foreign countries

0% Customs duties deferralfor goods inside the SEZ

Flexible and​supportive regulations
around foreign talent during first 5 years​

0% VAT for all intra-SEZ goods
exchanged within the zone
and between zones

Expat levy ensuring fees exemption
for employees and their families inthe zone

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53

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunities

Jazan Special
Economic Zone
Join an industrial city and a
growth export hub, perfectly
located on the Red Sea

E C Z A . G O V. S A

Take advantage of Jazan’s unique position on
the crucial Red Sea shipping route, its proximity to
growing African markets and its role as a platform
for Saudi Arabia-China investment.
Jazan SEZ will enable Saudi Arabia’s strong
mining industry to play an increasingly importantrole in global construction and processed metals
and minerals markets.
Investing here will give your company access to
one of the region’s largest ports for export ofgoods and import of manufacturing materials,
as well as the Kingdom’s world-leading chemicals,
metals and agricultural industries.
Moreover, Jazan province has a unique mix ofnatural assets ranging from pristine islands
to breathtaking mountains, the region is also
increasingly capitalizing on its varied geography
to foster the development of its rising
tourism industry.

Key location information
Province: Jazan
Size of the zone: 24.6 km2
Ideal Red Sea location in close proximity
to key mines and industrial assets
Focus Sectors•••

Food Processing
Metal conversion
Logistics

Contact Information
Email: info-investors@rcjy.gov.sa ​website: www.investjcpdi.com/ ​Source: Jazan SEZ
54

55

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunities

Reach global markets
through one of theregion’s largest ports
Located inside Jazan City for Primary and Downstream
Industries (JCPDI) and on the Red Sea, the Jazan Special
Economic Zone is in a prime position.

E C Z A . G O V. S A

24.6km2

13% Global trade

One of theKingdom’s largest
export ports

Titanium & Iron

Land area(via Red Sea Corridor)

Notably, the zone is adjacent to one of the largest
ports in the region. This allows for efficient deliveryof materials with no land shipment costs.
Investors in the zone can take advantage of regionalsocio-economic developments, including NEOM and Belt &Road Initiative infrastructure projects across the Middle
East and Africa.
In addition, the low existing industrial intensity andabundance of suitable land provides a high development
potential for prospective investors – grow your global
trading company here!

industries

Source: Jazan SEZ

56

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Access abundant utilities and skills to
succeed in industrial processing
Whether you require power, talent, land or water Jazan SEZ has you covered toensure an efficient, competitive investment project

Cheap and readily available
energy, including output of
2.4GW from the Aramco
power plant

The region offers a large andhighly skilled workforce

Sectors of opportunity
Embed Saudi Arabia’s metals conversion industry into global value chains
Investors can leverage the region’s strong metals conversion industry to serve the global construction and processed metals and mineral market. Immerse yourself in the Zone
to take advantage of the opportunities.

US$ 1.3tn

Potential global mineralsmarket in 2026

1.3
1.0
Competitive industrial lease
compared nationally and to
the region

A range of cheap and efficientwater supply options, acrossirrigation, potable water andsanitary wastewater

+8%
2021

2027

Access building materials for construction to power infrastructure development
Gain direct access to raw materials such as limestone, gypsum, sand and marl, as well as
natural gas. Take advantage of the SEZ’s proximity to Aramco’s Jazan Refinery Complex– a new smart self-powering refinery

Source: Business Research company

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Investing in Jazan SEZ provides access to
unparalleled economic incentives​to drive
the success of your business
Jazan province, already a highly attractive location for international investors,
is strengthened by the incentives that are available to companies establishing within Jazan SEZ.

5% Corporate Income Tax for
up to 20 years

0% withholding tax permanently forrepatriation of profits from SEZ into
foreign countries.

0% Customs duties oncapital equipment andinputs inside SEZ

Flexible and​supportive regulations
around foreign talent during first 5 years​

0% VAT for all intra-SEZ goods
exchanged within the zone
and between zones

Expat levy ensuring fees exemption
for employees and their families inthe zone

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61

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunities

Cloud
Computing SEZ
Where emerging anddisruptive
technologies flourish

E C Z A . G O V. S A

Be part of Saudi Arabia’s own ‘Silicon Valley’
and establish yourself in a home to emerging anddisruptive digital technologies.
Driven by the National Strategy for Digital
Transformation and the ICT Sector Strategy,
benefit from government commitment toencouraging and supporting the growth of digitaltechnologies in the Kingdom.
This growth includes a target for $20bn
investments (FDI & Domestic Direct Investment)by 2030 across Data and AI sectors with support
from Cloud Computing SEZ.
Digital companies investing in the Kingdom
can benefit from of a highly skilled workforce aswell as large end users from across public sector
and an eager public that are proven early adoptersof new technology.

Key location information
Location: Innovation Tower at
King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology(KACST)
Headquarters in Riyadhwith the ability for businesses to build andoperate data centers from all over the kingdom
Focus Sectors•

Cloud Computing Services

Contact Information
Email: CloudSEZ@cst.gov.sa ​Website: https://www.cst.gov.sa/ ​This zone is different from the others in that it
lacks a central physical location. However, it is noless competitive and impactful and has received
significant interest from major international
companies to date.

62

Source: Tech Xplore, ‘Saudi to invest $20 billion in AI by 2030’, Nov 2020.

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Launch your cloud computing
operations and accelerate growth in theKingdom’s digital economy
Benefit from an innovative hybrid zone:
The Cloud Computing SEZ enables investors to establish data centers and cloud computing
infrastructure within the Kingdom. With ambitions to attract leading cloud computing companies,
become part of an ecosystem primed to accelerate the digital economy.
While the Cloud Computing SEZ will have supportive and operative offices in King Abdulaziz City for
Science and Technology (KACST), investment and establishment can occur anywhere within the Kingdom.
Seize the opportunities in international communication services and data centers and access the latest
communication and hosting technologies.

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Sectors of opportunity
Access one of the most digitally competitive economies in the world andbecome part of a vibrant cluster of leading global tech companies.
With high internet usage penetration, 4th globally for 5G deployment and 2nd in theG20 for radio spectrum allocation, access a mature and growing market.

Access unique incentives that are available to companies
establishing within the Cloud Computing SEZ.

US$834bn

Potential global cloud computing​market size by 2027

Investing in the Cloud Computing SEZ
provides access to unparalleled economic
incentives​to drive the success of
your business

834
334

x2.5
2021

2027

Special tax treatment
in line with OECD principlethat avoids double taxation
and accommodates CSPs
operating model​

Expat levy ensuring fees
exemption for employees andtheir families in the zone

Affordable network connectivity
and electricity prices. Electricity
available at a competitive rate of
0.05 USD/kWh for businesses​

Flexibility to provide
cloud computing services fromthe zone, with the ability to buildand operate data centers fromall over the kingdom.​

10$bn Saudi Arabia Cloud market size by 2030, driven by a ‘Cloud First’ policy,
creates the ideal base from which to tap into a local cloud computing market.
Set up in Saudi Arabia, joining Tech giants such as Google, Oracle and Alibaba Cloud who are
already in the Kingdom.

US$28tn
Potential global market
opportunity from emerging
tech sectors by 2027

28
11

~x3
2021

66

2027

Sources: WEF, ‘Here’s how Saudi Arabia is investing in the technology of the future’, Jan 2023, Statista Technology Outlook
2021; Statista Technology Market Outlook; Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) analysis of cloudservices demand by 2030 (figures converted to USD).

67

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

RiyadhIntegrated
Special Logistics
Zone

Locate your company in this cutting-edge
development that aims to make Riyadh one of
the top urban economies in the global economy.

The Kingdom’s leadingindustrial and logistics zone•

Location: Adjacent to theKing Khalid International Airport

Benefit from an ideal position next toKing Khalid International Airport, which isestablishing Saudi Arabia as a leadingtransport and logistics hub.

Province: Riyadh
Centrally located in Riyadhwith excellent air connectivity

Access a range of direct and indirect fiscal
incentives for Saudi and foreign investors.

Focus Sectors

These include:••

Suspension of customs duties on goods
imported or transported within the RISLZ.
No VAT on goods entering the zone forservicing or manufacturing activities.
Zero percent income tax rate onprescribed activities.

RISLZ is a truly competitive and unique location
for a range of light manufacturing, trade,
distribution and value-add industries.

68

Key location information

•
•
•
•
•
•

Consumer products
Computer parts
Pharmaceuticals
Nutritional and medical supplies
Aerospace spare parts
Luxury goods, jewelry andprecious metals

Contact Information
Email: SILZ@gaca.gov.sa ​Website: www.silz.gaca.gov.sa

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Position your company in the world’s first
truly integrated logistics zone
RISLZ is the first zone of its kind that combines best practice in regulation, technology andinfrastructure from around the world. This provides companies with frictionless linkages between
investors, suppliers, customs and government.
SILZ enjoys global and regional connectivity due to its proximity to the airport and access to rail,
metro, and ring road system.

Companies in RISLZ can benefit fromsupportive and flexible processes andregulations, developed to establish thezone as a global business hub
Enhanced ease of doing business benefits :One stop shop for
administrative processes

Largest domestic market in ME(7.6% annual growth 2021-22)
8 hours from 70% of
global population

Bonded corridor to
King Khalid Airport andother zones

Rapid certificationof goods for export

Flexible Saudization
requirements

3 million square meters site

Designed specifically for leading
supply chain and logistics firms

No restrictions on capital
repatriation

No customs for goods
remaining in zone

100% foreign ownershipof business

Source: RISLZ Investor brochure

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Special Economic Zone Oppor tunitiesE C Z A . G O V. S A

Investing in RISLZ provides accessto a range of competitive tax
advantages​to drive the successof your business

Key Contacts
Contact the relevant Zone to register your interest today.
For additional information and to discuss specificinvestment opportunities, contact the relevant zone.

KAEC SEZ
kaecsez@kaec.net ​https://www.kaec.net/ kaecsez/
0% Corporate
Income Tax

rkez.info@rcjy.gov.sa
www.rcjy.gov.sa ​VAT exemptions

Jazan SEZ
info-investors@rcjy.gov.sa ​www.investjcpdi.com/
Withholding tax
exemptions*

Cloud Computing SEZ
CloudSEZ@cst.gov.sa ​https://www.cst.gov.sa/ ​50 yeartax relief period

Riyadh Integrated
Special Logistics Zone

Remittance tax
exemptions*

SILZ@gaca.gov.sa ​www.silz.gaca.gov.sa

VAT exemptions for goods
under customs suspension

Ras Al-Khair SEZ

0% VAT on servicing or
manufacturing and assembly*

Economic Cities andSpecial Zones Authority
info@ecza.gov.sa
https://site.ecza.gov.sa/en

Ministry of Investmentof Saudi Arabia
InvestorCare@misa.gov.sa
https://misa.gov.sa/en/*Subject to meeting set criteria

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Special Economic Zone Opportunities