Opening a barber shop in Saudi Arabia is a great business opportunity, given the country’s growing focus on modern grooming services and personal care. However, before you start offering your services, you must secure a barber shop license in Saudi Arabia to operate legally.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything about how to get a barber shop license in Saudi Arabia, including license requirements, costs, required documents, and setup procedures.
Why Start a Barber Shop Business in Saudi Arabia?
The demand for men’s grooming services is booming in Saudi Arabia, especially in urban areas like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Traditional barbershops are now evolving into modern grooming salons, attracting a large customer base.
Key Benefits of Opening a Barber Shop in Saudi Arabia:
- Consistent local demand for grooming services
- Low-cost setup compared to other businesses
- Fast licensing and approval process
- Option to expand into beauty services for men
- Good profit margins with minimal staff requirements
Understanding Barber Shop License in Saudi Arabia
A barber shop license in Saudi Arabia is an official permit issued by the relevant municipality or local authorities that allows you to legally run a barber shop or men’s salon in the Kingdom.
This license is mandatory for:
- Traditional barber shops
- Modern men’s grooming salons
- Hair cutting and styling centers
- Beard trimming and shaving businesses
Without the proper license, you risk penalties, business closure, or legal action.
Types of Barber Shop Licenses in Saudi Arabia
Depending on your business size and service offering, you can apply for different license categories.
Small Barber Shop License
Ideal for a traditional barber shop setup, serving basic haircuts, beard trims, and shaves.
Men’s Grooming Salon License
For businesses offering premium services like:
- Hair coloring
- Facial treatments
- Scalp therapy
- Waxing services
- Grooming packages
This license is more detailed and may require additional approvals.
Steps to Get a Barber Shop License in Saudi Arabia
Starting a barber shop in Saudi Arabia requires following a structured process to ensure compliance with all regulations.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Select the correct commercial activity code that matches your services. Typically, “Barber Shop Services” or “Men’s Grooming Services” is listed under personal care activities.
Step 2: Register Your Trade Name
Reserve a unique business name that reflects your brand. Avoid using restricted words like “Royal” or religious terms unless approved.
Step 3: Secure a Commercial Registration (CR)
Apply for your Commercial Registration (CR) through the Ministry of Commerce. This CR acts as your company’s legal identity in Saudi Arabia.
Step 4: Obtain Municipal Approval
Submit your shop layout and design plan to the local municipality for approval. The authorities will check:
- Hygiene compliance
- Shop ventilation and lighting
- Customer waiting area
- Barber workstations and washbasins
- Fire safety equipment
Step 5: Lease a Compliant Shop Space
You must rent a shop that complies with regulations for barber businesses. Factors like location, parking availability, and shop size affect approval.
Step 6: Get Health and Safety Clearance
Your shop must meet the health and safety standards set by Saudi authorities, including sterilization equipment, proper waste disposal, and regular hygiene checks.
Step 7: Apply for Your Barber Shop License
After securing all initial approvals, apply for your barber shop license at the municipality. Submit:
- Commercial Registration (CR)
- Lease agreement
- Shop layout approval
- Health and safety clearance
- Personal identification documents
Step 8: Pay License Fees
Pay the barber shop license fee, which may vary based on location and shop size.
Step 9: Receive License and Start Operations
Once approved, you’ll receive your barber shop license, allowing you to legally open your business and start offering services.
Documents Required for Barber Shop License in Saudi Arabia
- Copy of passport and residency permit (Iqama)
- Commercial Registration (CR) certificate
- Lease agreement or property ownership papers
- Shop design and layout plan
- Health and safety compliance certificates
- Municipal approvals
- Payment receipt of licensing fees
Cost of Barber Shop License in Saudi Arabia
The total cost to open a barber shop in Saudi Arabia includes:
- Commercial Registration (CR) fee: SAR 500 to SAR 1,000
- Barber shop license issuance fee: SAR 3,000 to SAR 10,000 (varies by location)
- Municipality inspection fee: Around SAR 500
- Health certificate: SAR 300 to SAR 500
- Rental cost of premises
Expect an initial investment starting from SAR 50,000 to SAR 120,000, including setup, rent, and licensing costs.
Renewal of Barber Shop License in Saudi Arabia
Your barber shop license typically needs to be renewed annually. To renew:
- Submit updated shop documents
- Clear any fines or violations
- Pay renewal fees
- Pass municipal inspection (if required)
Failure to renew on time may result in penalties or suspension.
Rules and Regulations for Barber Shops in Saudi Arabia
To maintain your license, you must follow strict regulations:
- Staff must wear clean uniforms
- Equipment must be sterilized regularly
- Proper waste disposal methods
- Fire extinguishers and first-aid kits must be present
- Customer hygiene and safety must be prioritized
- Staff must be vaccinated as per Ministry of Health guidelines
Hiring Staff for Your Barber Shop
Only certified barbers and grooming professionals are allowed to work in licensed shops.
- Apply for work visas for foreign staff
- Ensure they have relevant experience and certification
- Provide necessary training to meet Saudi hygiene standards
Expansion Opportunities for Barber Shops in Saudi Arabia
Once your barber shop is operational, you can expand your services:
- Offer grooming packages and memberships
- Open branches in other cities
- Add premium services like hair spas or facials
- Collaborate with local product brands
- Launch an online booking app for customers
The Saudi market offers plenty of room for growth in the grooming and personal care sector.
Benefits of Opening a Barber Shop in Saudi Arabia
- High and consistent demand
- Low operational overheads
- Simple licensing process
- Fast setup compared to other industries
- Potential for business expansion across the Kingdom
- Opportunity to attract both locals and expatriates
Conclusion
Securing your barber shop license in Saudi Arabia is the first and most crucial step towards running a successful grooming business. Following the correct licensing process, meeting hygiene standards, and selecting a suitable location will ensure your business starts and grows successfully.
If you’re looking to expand regionally, consider working with experienced business setup consultants in Saudi Arabia to explore opportunities across GCC markets and streamline your expansion process.
FAQs
Is a license mandatory to open a barber shop in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. A valid barber shop license from the municipality is required to operate legally.
How much does it cost to get a barber shop license?
Depending on shop size and location, expect licensing fees from SAR 3,000 to SAR 10,000, excluding setup and rent.
Can foreigners open a barber shop in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, under the Saudi investment regulations, foreigners can invest, but certain sectors may require a Saudi partner unless 100% foreign ownership is allowed under new laws.
How long does it take to get the barber shop license?
Typically, the process takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on document readiness and municipal approvals.
What services are allowed under a barber shop license?
Hair cutting, beard trimming, shaving, hair coloring, facials, waxing, and basic grooming services for men are permitted.
Do I need special approval for beauty treatments?
Yes. Advanced grooming services like facials, scalp treatments, or massages may require additional permits from health authorities.
Is shop inspection necessary?
Yes. The municipality inspects shop hygiene, equipment sterilization, layout, and safety compliance before license approval.
Do I need to renew the barber shop license annually?
Yes. You must renew your barber shop license in Saudi Arabia every year to continue operating legally.
