Saudi Arabia–Turkey Investment Relations
Saudi Arabia and Turkey have a bilateral investment protection agreement and maintain strong economic cooperation. Both countries are members of the G20 and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Turkish-Saudi trade relations have expanded significantly, with bilateral trade volume reaching approximately $8 billion. Saudi Arabia is one of the largest Gulf investors in Turkey.
Saudi investment in Turkey has grown substantially across real estate, finance, retail, and hospitality sectors. Istanbul and Ankara are the primary investment destinations. Several major Saudi corporations maintain significant operations in Turkey. The Saudi-Turkish Business Council actively promotes bilateral investment opportunities.
Can Saudi Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of Saudi Arabia can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. Saudi nationals receive equal treatment under the Turkish Commercial Code, with the same rights and obligations as Turkish-owned companies.
There are no sector restrictions specific to Saudi investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
Saudi citizens can enter Turkey without a visa for stays up to 90 days. This visa-free access makes it convenient for Saudi investors to conduct business activities, attend formation meetings, and manage their Turkish companies. Work permits follow the standard Ministry of Labour application process.
Foreign shareholders who do not intend to work or reside in Turkey do not need a work permit or residence permit to own a company. However, if you plan to actively manage your Turkish company from Turkey, a work permit is legally required.
Recommended Company Type
The most common structure among Saudi investors is the Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.).
LLC (Ltd. Şti.)
- Min. 50,000 TRY capital
- 1–50 shareholders
- Simple management structure
- Best for SMEs and service businesses
Joint Stock (A.Ş.)
- Min. 250,000 TRY capital
- 1+ (no limit) shareholders
- Board of directors required
- Best for large-scale or IPO-track businesses
Branch Office
- No separate legal entity
- No minimum capital
- Extension of parent company
- Best for companies testing the market
Requirements for Saudi Citizens
- Valid passport from Saudi Arabia
- Turkish tax identification number (vergi numarası)
- Registered business address in Turkey
- Notarized Articles of Association (in Turkish)
- Minimum share capital deposit at a Turkish bank
- Power of attorney (if forming remotely without visiting Turkey)
Formation Process
- Consultation — Choose your company type, define business activities, and plan your structure
- MERSIS Pre-Registration — Enter company details in Turkey's central registry system
- Articles of Association — Draft, notarize, and sign (or via power of attorney)
- Bank Account & Capital Deposit — Open a Turkish bank account and deposit at least 25% of capital
- Trade Registry — File with the local Trade Registry Office
- Tax & Social Security — Register with the tax office and SGK
- Work Permits — Apply if foreign managers or employees will be based in Turkey
The process typically takes 5–10 business days once all documents are prepared. If documents need apostille or consular legalization from Saudi Arabia, allow additional time.