Latest Legal Updates
Commodity Exchange Authorization
The Capital Market Authority has opened applications for Saudi Arabiau2019s commodity exchange authorization from 1 July to 31 October 2026, creating a new licensing and market-infrastructure opportunity in the Kingdom.
IFRS 18 Early Adoption
The Capital Market Authority has approved early adoption of IFRS 18 for companies listed on the Saudi Exchange during 2026, creating new financial reporting and disclosure considerations for listed issuers.
Engineering Saudization
The Saudization requirement for engineering professions increased to 30% from 30 June 2026. A minimum monthly salary of SAR 8,000 applies for a Saudi engineer to count toward the required percentage.
PDPL Compliance Verification Form
Introduced by SDAIA to support compliance with Saudi Arabiau2019s Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL). A practical tool designed to help organizations assess their compliance readiness ahead of regulatory verification
Enforcement Law
Royal Decree No. M/237. Published in the Official Gazette on 1 May 2026; effective from 28 October 2026. A major update to Saudi Arabiau2019s judgment enforcement framework u2014 relevant to banks, contractors, funds, and creditor-side clients.
Employment Contracts Deadline
From 6 August 2026, all existing indefinite-term employment contracts must transition to the new contract form. An imminent labor compliance deadline relevant to employers, HR teams, in-house legal teams, and businesses operating across the Kingdom.
Real Estate Ownership by Non-Saudis
A key legal development in Saudi Arabiau2019s real estate market, introducing a more structured framework for non-Saudi ownership and investment, with location-specific restrictions remaining relevant in certain areas of the Kingdom. Relevant to developers, investors, funds, and real estate clients.
Money Laundering / Asset Confiscation Law
Royal Decree D/1 dated 16 June 2026 approved the Law of the Management of Seized and Confiscated Property in Money Laundering Crimes and Terrorist Financing Crimes. A notable financial crime development u2014 relevant to banks, compliance teams, financial institutions, and cross-border asset recovery matters.
New Copyright Law
Royal Decree M/169 (14/08/1447 AH). In force 1 August 2026; implementing regulations due by the same date. A significant modernization of the IP framework u2014 relevant to media, tech, franchising, and consumer-facing clients.rn
