Introduction:
In 2025, Saudi Arabia transformed its Commercial Registration (CR) framework to simplify business operations and promote transparency. The new unified CR system, introduced by the Ministry of Commerce, now allows companies to operate multiple business activities under a single, consolidated CR.
If you’re a business owner, investor, or entrepreneur in the Kingdom, understanding these new changes is crucial to staying compliant while reducing administrative overhead.
- Understanding the New Unified CR System in Saudi Arabia
- Benefits of the Unified CR System
- How to Register Multiple Activities Under One CR
- What If You Already Have Multiple CRs?
- Key Authorities and Approvals to Note
- Example Use Case
- Expert Insight
- Conclusion: The Future of Business Registrations in Saudi Arabia
- Call to Action
Understanding the New Unified CR System in Saudi Arabia
Previously, Saudi businesses often held multiple Commercial Registrations (CRs)—one for each branch or business activity. However, regulatory updates effective from 2025 now mandate a single CR per company, covering all activities nationwide
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Under the Commercial Registration Law (2025):
- Each company is assigned one unique establishment number that serves as a national business ID.
- Separate CRs for branches or unrelated business activities are being phased out.
- Businesses with multiple CRs must merge them into one unified record by April 3, 2030
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This reform supports Vision 2030’s goal of enhancing ease of doing business and reducing bureaucracy.
Benefits of the Unified CR System
Simplified Compliance
Businesses no longer need to manage separate renewals, licenses, or updates for different CRs. The unified registration requires annual data confirmation instead of renewal
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Cost Efficiency
Administrative and legal costs are significantly reduced since all business activities are consolidated into a single entity record.
National Coverage
One CR now enables businesses to operate across all Saudi regions, eliminating the need for region-specific registrations.
H3: Greater Flexibility
Companies can register multiple or even unrelated business activities under the same CR, provided they comply with relevant licensing authorities such as MISA (Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia) and ZATCA (Tax Authority).
How to Register Multiple Activities Under One CR
Step 1: Access the Ministry of Commerce Portal
Visit mc.gov.sa and log in using your National Single Sign-On (Nafath) credentials.
Step 2: Select “Commercial Registration Services”
Choose “Add or Update Activities” to list all business activities you intend to operate under one CR.
Step 3: Verify Activity Compatibility
Ensure your business activities align with approved categories under the Unified National Classification System (ISIC4). Some sectors, such as contracting or e-commerce, may require third-party approvals from specialized authorities
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Step 4: Submit and Pay the Fees
Once verified, submit your application and pay the standard CR issuance fee via SADAD.
Step 5: Annual Confirmation
Instead of annual renewals, confirm your CR data each year to remain compliant with MoC and ZATCA regulations.
What If You Already Have Multiple CRs?
If your company currently operates under multiple CRs, the law requires you to merge them into one by the 2030 deadline.
To do this:
- Access your MoC account and select “CR Consolidation.”
- Provide existing CR numbers and supporting documentation.
- The system will assign you a single establishment number that consolidates all prior records.
Failure to merge CRs within the given timeframe may result in administrative penalties and suspension of non-compliant CRs.
Key Authorities and Approvals to Note
- Ministry of Commerce (MoC): Primary authority for CR issuance and management.
- MISA: For foreign-owned businesses or investors.
- ZATCA: Ensures tax compliance linked to CR data.
- Municipality & Chamber of Commerce: May require sector-specific clearances.
Example Use Case
Example:
A company named TechVision Arabia wants to operate IT consultancy, real estate marketing, and e-commerce under one CR.
Instead of applying for separate CRs:
- They register all three activities under one CR.
- Each activity is tagged with its ISIC4 classification.
- The company pays one annual confirmation fee and enjoys nationwide operation rights.
Expert Insight
According to Clyde & Co (2025) and EER Middle East, the unified CR system positions Saudi Arabia as one of the most streamlined business environments in the GCC, aligning with Vision 2030’s regulatory modernization goals. It’s designed to enhance transparency, reduce duplication, and encourage entrepreneurship
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Conclusion: The Future of Business Registrations in Saudi Arabia
The shift to a single, nationwide CR system marks a pivotal step in Saudi Arabia’s business evolution.
By merging multiple CRs into one, companies gain efficiency, transparency, and nationwide legitimacy.
If you haven’t yet consolidated your CRs, start today through the Ministry of Commerce portal to ensure compliance before April 2030.
The process is simpler, faster, and more aligned with the Kingdom’s digital transformation strategy.
Call to Action
Need help merging your existing CRs or registering new activities under one unified license?
👉 Book a consultation with our business setup experts at Expandway.sa to ensure your company meets the new 2025 regulatory standards.