Find distributors & business partners in Saudi Arabia

Identifying the top retail chains in Saudi Arabia where you can sell your products is relatively easy. Approaching and convincing them is a much bigger challenge.

It may be a better strategy to find a distributor first who can help you to get your products in smaller chains or individual stores, and then help you to get to the big names. Or to start online.

In this article you will find more information on the retail market and guidance on how to convince retailers and distributors to work with you.

The retail market in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, the largest country in the Middle East, has a population of about 35 million (2024 census). It is the world’s largest oil exporter, deeply influencing its culture, economy, and politics.

With a high GDP per capita of approximately $32,000 USD in 2025, Saudi Arabia’s economy is heavily dependent on oil, which accounts for most of its export earnings and government revenues. The country is diversifying its economy, with significant investments in sectors like tourism, entertainment, and technology.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the largest economy in the Arab world. It accounts for 25% of the Arab world’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Saudi Arabia has an oil based economy with strong government controls over major economic activities.

Saudi Arabia market opportunities

Strengths of the Saudi market include:

No taxation on personal income
Proximity to other Gulf markets
Key member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
Largest economy and population in the Gulf region

Challenges include:

Identifying suitable sponsors for initial entry into the market
Finding an appropriate Saudi partner for joint ventures
Lead time to establish legal entities and obtain licenses from appropriate ministries

You must apply through the relevant government ministries for licenses to do business in Saudi Arabia.

Look for a business partner in Saudi Arabia

You must have a physical presence in Saudi Arabia to be directly involved in the buying and selling of goods. Under Saudi investment law the establishment of a physical presence requires a joint venture with a Saudi partner. You should evaluate your business partner thoroughly. You should take local legal advice and consult.

Here are some practical guidelines:

Prospective partner has the necessary legal entity in Saudi Arabia
Prospective partner works in the same field that you are working in
Choose the partner who will have an added value for your business
Be professional. Do not base your partnership on friendship or personal relationship
Have all legal contracts and MOUs reviewed by a local lawyer and an experienced consultant working in the same industry as yours
Do all necessary due diligence prior to signing a contract
Define clearly the roles and responsibilities of each party
Always include an exit strategy in your contract
Invest in finding the right partner. Visit them and meet them in person before making any commitment

Distributor, retailer or web shop?

Most consumer products need at least one party in between. A distributor imports, stores and physically distributes your product, but rarely promotes it to consumers. A large retailer is the fastest route to the mass market, but is risk averse and often asks a listing fee.

A specialised web shop takes smaller volumes, but gives you reviews, pricing feedback and brand awareness within weeks.

Most exporters combine them: start where the barrier is lowest and use the sales data you gather there to convince the bigger names later.

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Finding a distributor in Saudi Arabia in three steps

Step 1

Map the channel

List 10 to 15 distributors and retailers that already carry comparable products. Check which regions and store types they serve, and which brands they represent.

Step 2

Build a partner pitch

Your consumer sales deck is not enough. Show margin, rotation, returns and the support they get from you, with concrete figures from your home market.

Step 3

Approach and agree

Contact five to eight of them, propose a trial order or a pilot region, and settle pricing, minimum volumes, exclusivity and marketing support.