The small business in Saudi Arabia (SME) sector is a major driver of economic growth in Saudi Arabia. SMEs account for over 90% of all businesses in the country and employ over 70% of the workforce. Here are 15 Small Business Ideas in Saudi Arabia that you can consider.

The Saudi government is committed to supporting the growth of SMEs. The Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority (Monsha’at) provides a range of support services to SMEs, including financing, training, and advisory services. Some of the most popular small business sectors in Saudi Arabia include food and beverage, retail, tourism, Transportation, and Event planning. 

11 small business ideas in Saudi Arabia

Here are 11 Small Business Ideas in Saudi Arabia that you can consider:

1. Food Truck Business

Food trucks are a popular option for small businesses in Saudi Arabia, as they offer a flexible and affordable way to get started. You can sell a variety of food items, such as burgers, fries, pizza, or falafel.

Flexible and affordable: Food trucks are a relatively inexpensive way to start a business, as you don’t need to rent a permanent space. You can also move your truck around to different locations, which gives you more flexibility.

Popularity: Food trucks are becoming increasingly popular in Saudi Arabia, as people are looking for more unique and affordable dining options. This means that there is a growing demand for food trucks, which can be a good opportunity for businesses.

Variety of food options: You can sell a variety of food items from your food truck, which gives you the opportunity to cater to a wide range of customers. Some popular food items that you can sell include burgers, fries, pizza, falafel, kebabs, and shawarma.

Low startup costs: The startup costs for a food truck business are relatively low, as you don’t need to invest in a lot of expensive equipment. You will need to purchase a food truck, but you can find used trucks for a fraction of the cost of a new one. You will also need to purchase food supplies, but these costs can be offset by the high profit margins of food trucks.

2. Cleaning Business

The demand for cleaning services is high in Saudi Arabia, so this is a good business opportunity for those who are looking for a low-cost startup. You can start a cleaning business for homes, businesses, or even cars.

Starting a cleaning business in Saudi Arabia:

Choose a niche: You can specialize in cleaning homes, businesses, or cars. Or, you can specialize in a particular type of cleaning, such as window cleaning or carpet cleaning.

Get the necessary licenses and permits: You will need to get a business license from the local government. You may also need to get a health permit if you are cleaning homes or businesses.

Market your business: You can market your business online, through word-of-mouth, or by putting up flyers.

Provide excellent customer service: This is essential for any business, but it is especially important for a cleaning business. Make sure your customers are happy with the quality of your work and the level of service you provide.

If you are looking for a low-cost business to start in Saudi Arabia, a cleaning business is a great option. With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful cleaning business that provides a valuable service to your community.

3. Transportation Business

The transportation sector in Saudi Arabia is growing, so there is a demand for small businesses that offer transportation services. You can start a taxi company, car rental business, furniture transportation, or even a ride-hailing service.

You can specialize in providing transportation to a particular group of people, such as tourists, business travelers, or students. Or, you can specialize in providing a particular type of transportation, such as airport transfers or long-distance travel.

Furniture transportation in Saudi Arabia

Starting a furniture transportation business in Saudi Arabia can be a great business opportunity. The demand for furniture transportation services is high, as people move homes, businesses, and offices frequently. If you are looking for a business opportunity in Saudi Arabia, starting a furniture transportation business can be a great option. With careful planning and execution, you can build a successful furniture transportation business that provides a valuable service to your community.

4. Event Planning Business

The event planning industry is growing in Saudi Arabia, so this is a good business opportunity for those who are creative and organized. starting an event planning business is a great business idea in Saudi Arabia. The demand for event planning services is high, and the industry is growing rapidly.

5. E-commerce Business

The e-commerce market in Saudi Arabia is growing rapidly, making it a good opportunity for small businesses. You can sell a variety of products online, such as clothes, electronics, or home goods.

6. Tourism Business

Saudi Arabia is a popular tourist destination, so there is a growing demand for tourism-related businesses. You can start a tour company, rent out cars or apartments to tourists, or offer travel planning services.

7. Fitness Business

The fitness industry is booming in Saudi Arabia, so there is a good opportunity for small businesses that offer fitness services. You can start a gym, yoga studio, or personal training business.

8. Web Development Business

The demand for web development services is high in Saudi Arabia, so this is a good business opportunity for those who have the skills and experience. You can create websites for businesses, individuals, or government agencies.

9. Social media marketing Business

The demand for social media marketing services is high in Saudi Arabia, so this is a good business opportunity for those who are familiar with social media platforms. You can help businesses or individuals develop and implement social media marketing strategies.

10. Dropshipping Business

The dropshipping business model is a low-cost way to start an online business. You don’t need to stock any inventory, as you simply purchase products from a supplier when a customer places an order.

11. Freelance writing Business

The demand for freelance writing services is high in Saudi Arabia, so this is a good business opportunity for those who are skilled in writing. You can write blog posts, articles, or even e-books.

You can specialize in a particular type of writing, such as technical writing, creative writing, or marketing writing. Or, you can offer a more general writing service.

These are just a few of the small business ideas that you can start in Saudi Arabia. The best business for you will depend on your skills, interests, and resources. Do some research and find a business that you are passionate about and that you think you can be successful in.