Situations we help with
- ZATCA has issued an assessment that you believe is wrong.
- Your objection was rejected and you need to appeal to the committees.
- You are structuring a company with Saudi and foreign shareholders and want to understand the zakat and tax split.
- A contract does not say who bears VAT or withholding tax.
- You are buying a business and need to know about its historic zakat and tax position.
What the work covers
- Objections to ZATCA assessments
- Appeals before the tax violations and disputes committees
- Zakat and tax aspects of company structuring and transactions
- VAT and withholding tax clauses in commercial contracts
- Zakat and tax due diligence in acquisitions
- Coordination with the client's accountants and tax advisers
Who pays what
| Charge | Applies to | Basic rate |
|---|---|---|
| Zakat | The share of a company owned by Saudi and GCC nationals | 2.5% of the zakat base (Hijri year) |
| Corporate income tax | The share of a company owned by non-Saudis, and certain other taxpayers | 20% of taxable profit |
| Withholding tax | Payments to non-residents from Saudi sources | Varies by type of payment |
| Value added tax | Most supplies of goods and services | 15% standard rate |
| Real estate transaction tax | Most sales of real estate | 5% |
Specific sectors, such as oil and hydrocarbons, have different rates. This table is a summary — your accountant or tax adviser should confirm how the rules apply to your figures.
Where a lawyer helps
Zakat and tax disputes are part accounting, part law. A lawyer's role is usually in reading the legal basis for an assessment, preparing objections and appeals, and making sure contracts and transaction documents allocate tax risk clearly. The firm works alongside clients' accountants rather than replacing them.
How a consultation works
- 1
Tell us what you need
Send a short enquiry or call the office. Describe the matter in general terms — no confidential documents yet.
- 2
Conflict check and call-back
The firm checks that it can act for you, then contacts you to understand the matter.
- 3
Consultation
You meet a lawyer in Jeddah or online. You get an initial view of your position and options.
- 4
Scope and fees in writing
If you instruct the firm, you receive the scope of work and fees in writing before work begins.
Questions clients ask
Do companies pay zakat or income tax in Saudi Arabia?
What is the zakat rate?
What is the VAT rate in Saudi Arabia?
What if we disagree with a ZATCA assessment?
Official sources
Laws change. We cite the official text so you can check the current version.
This page is general information, not legal advice for your situation.