With commerce in Saudi Arabia shifting to heavy reliance on delivery, official authorities have required commercial establishments to obtain a Home Delivery Permit before delivering their products to customers. The mandatory application of the permit for establishments began in July 2025, and oversight intensified in 2026 through the blocking of store apps that work with unlicensed couriers or delivery companies. In this guide we explain who needs the permit, its conditions, the steps to issue it, and the violations resulting from not obtaining it.

What is the Home Delivery Permit?

It is a municipal permit issued by the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs through the “Baladi” platform, allowing a commercial establishment to carry out the activity of delivering its products to customers, and it serves as an official record linking the establishment to the delivery process within the municipality’s jurisdiction. It is a permit separate from the delivery company license issued by the General Authority of Transport, and also different from the “craftsman license” for workers in certain professions.

Who needs a Home Delivery Permit?

  • Restaurants and cafés that deliver orders to customers.
  • Stores and establishments that ship or receive their products via a courier or app.
  • Pharmacies and retail shops that provide delivery service.
  • Establishments that operate through delivery apps and need an official proof to deliver their products.

Delivery companies and couriers who provide the service to others need a license from the General Authority of Transport, as they are carriers rather than just establishments delivering their own products.

Conditions and Requirements for Obtaining the Permit

  • Having a valid commercial registration for the establishment.
  • Having a valid municipal license for the activity.
  • The activity must be among those allowed to obtain the permit.
  • Issuing a “craftsman license” for workers whose professions require it, such as delivery couriers.
  • Matching the establishment’s data on official platforms (Baladi, Ministry of Commerce).

Steps to Issue a Home Delivery Permit

  1. Access the “Baladi” platform (balady.gov.sa) and log in with the digital identity “Nafath”.
  2. Select the establishment and go to the commercial activities services.
  3. Choose the “Home Delivery Permit” service and fill in the delivery details (address, service area, delivery method).
  4. Attach the required documents, including a copy of the municipal license and the establishment’s registration.
  5. Pay the fees electronically (automatically calculated based on the activity).
  6. Receive the permit electronically and track its status from the same account.

Home Delivery Permit Fees

Fees are calculated electronically based on the activity and service area, and appear immediately before payment on the “Baladi” platform. Since fees are subject to change, it is recommended to inquire about them directly from the platform or the relevant municipal office of the establishment when applying.

Violations for Not Obtaining the Permit

  • The fine for conducting municipal activities without a permit can reach 50 ألف ريال, in addition to possible closure — as announced by the ministry.
  • Blocking of apps and stores that ship their products through unlicensed parties, as emphasized.
  • Exposure to closure and removal for non‑compliant establishments and workers.

    • Difference between Home Delivery Permit and Delivery Company License

    • Home Delivery Permit: From the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing via “Baladi”, for establishments that deliver their products to customers.
    • Transport/Delivery License: From the General Authority of Transport, for companies and couriers who engage in transporting orders and passengers for a fee.

    Important Tips for Business Owners

    • Ensure you renew the permit and municipal license before they expire to avoid fines.
    • Deal only with companies and couriers licensed by the General Authority of Transport; the responsibility also lies with the establishment.
    • Keep an electronic copy of the permit to prove it during inspections.
    • Review the requirements specific to your activity (restaurants, pharmacies, retail) as they may vary from one sector to another.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is the home delivery permit mandatory?

    Yes, it has become mandatory for establishments that deliver their products, after the mandatory implementation started in July 2025.

    Where do I obtain the permit?

    Electronically via the “Baladi” platform of the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing.

    What is the permit fee?

    It varies depending on the activity and service scope, and is displayed electronically in “Baladi” before payment.

    Do I need a license from the General Authority of Transport?

    If you are a delivery company providing the service to others, then yes, you need the Authority’s license; if you are an establishment that only delivers its own products, the home delivery permit and municipal license are sufficient.

    What about the delivery courier himself?

    He may be required to have a “craft license” depending on the profession, in addition to the conditions of the entity he works for.

    How long does the issuance process take?

    It is usually completed electronically within a short period if the establishment’s data are up‑to‑date and documents complete; please consult the relevant authority for any special case.