This jurisdiction has evolving or restrictive regulations that require careful compliance. Additional licensing, reporting, or operational constraints may apply.
Saudi Arabia Cryptocurrency Regulatory Overview
Saudi Arabia has historically been cautious about cryptocurrencies, with warnings from the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA). However, the country is exploring blockchain technology and CBDC development. Crypto trading is not explicitly illegal but lacks regulatory framework and banking support. The government has shown increasing interest in blockchain for various applications. Saudi Arabia is part of regional initiatives exploring cross-border CBDC projects. The regulatory environment is evolving, with potential for future framework development as part of Vision 2030 economic diversification.
Saudi Arabia Blockchain Compliance Requirements
Regulatory Authority: SAMA (Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority). Legal Status: Not explicitly illegal but not regulated. Banking: No bank support for crypto transactions. Government Stance: Historically cautious; warnings issued. Blockchain: Government interest in technology applications. CBDC: Exploring digital riyal development. Regional: Participating in cross-border CBDC initiatives. Vision 2030: Potential for regulatory evolution. Risk Level: Moderate to high; lack of clear framework. Future: Uncertain; monitoring for policy changes.
Crypto Licensing Requirements in Saudi Arabia
There are no specific licensing requirements for cryptocurrency businesses in Saudi Arabia. The regulatory framework is still in development. However, any activity that falls under the definition of a securities business requires a license from the CMA.
Cryptocurrency Tax Treatment in Saudi Arabia
For individuals, there is no capital gains tax on cryptocurrency profits. For corporations, profits from cryptocurrency activities are subject to a 20% corporate income tax. A 2.5% Zakat may also apply to Saudi-owned entities.
Official Sources & Regulatory References
https://www.lightspark.com/knowledge/is-crypto-legal-in-saudi-arabia, https://www.chainalysis.com/blog/2025-crypto-regulatory-round-up/, https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2025/05/the-future-of-cryptocurrency-in-the-gulf-cooperation-council-countries?lang=en, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/saudis-bitcoin-trading-laws-2025-what-traders-and-businesses-need-to-know/articleshow/124017628.cms, https://www.cent.capital/finpedia/sa/savings-investments/commodities-crypto-asset-regulation-status, https://english.alarabiya.net/News/saudi-arabia/2025/11/06/global-crypto-exchanges-back-saudi-arabia-s-stablecoin-digital-asset-ambitions, https://freemanlaw.com/cryptocurrency/saudi-arabia/, https://www.cst.gov.sa/en/, https://cma.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx, https://coincub.com/blog/uae-saudi-arabia-regulations/, https://i-mena.shorthandstories.com/saudi-arabia-crypto-chief-or-cbdc-at-scale/, https://www.lexology.com/indepth/virtual-currency-regulation/saudi-arabia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legality_of_cryptocurrency_by_country_or_territory, https://coinfomania.com/cryptocurrency-regulations-in-saudi-arabia/, https://www.legal500.com/guides/chapter/saudi-arabia-fintech/, https://www.sama.gov.sa/en-US/News/pages/news12082018.aspx, https://coinfomania.com/crypto-taxation-in-saudi-arabia-a-complete-guide/
AML/CFT requirements may be stringent or evolving. Enhanced due diligence may be required.
Enforcement actions may be unpredictable or strict. Monitor regulatory developments closely.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Regulations change frequently. Always consult with qualified legal professionals in the relevant jurisdiction before making business decisions.