What is a direct work permit?
A direct work permit is an approval from the municipality (Ministry of Municipalities and Housing) that allows a business owner to operate a commercial activity at a specific location. This permit is obtained after acquiring a commercial registration from the Ministry of Commerce and is considered the next step to commence actual operations.
Previously, the process involved complex procedures and multiple reviews by government departments, but now the Baladi Aamal and Baladi platforms have made the entire process electronic, eliminating the need to visit any government entity.
What is the difference between a commercial license and a direct work permit?
To clarify: a commercial license (municipal license) is generally the same permit, but a direct work permit is required in specific cases such as:
- Commercial activities that require site preparation before operation (restaurants, cafes, salons)
- Establishments that require additional approvals from regulatory authorities (Civil Defense, General Authority for Food and Drug)
- Activities with high operational risks
In short: the commercial registration proves your identity as an establishment, while the direct work permit proves that you are ready to start operating.
Requirements for obtaining a direct work permit
To obtain the permit, the following conditions must be met:
- Valid commercial registration – from the Ministry of Commerce
- Notarized lease contract on the Ejari platform – proving ownership or lease of the site
- Site compliance with the activity – the site must be suitable for the registered commercial activity
- Civil Defense approval – for commercial activities requiring safety requirements
- Site free of municipal violations
Steps to issue a direct work permit
Method 1: via Baladi Aamal platform
- Visit the Baladi Aamal website (business.balady.sa)
- Log in using your unified national access account (Absher)
- Select “Commercial Licenses”
- Upload the required documents: Commercial registration – Lease contract – Chamber of Commerce membership certificate – Civil Defense report
Method 2: via Baladi platform
- Visit the Baladi website (balady.gov.sa)
- Select the service “Issue a commercial license”
- Fill in the required data and upload the documents
- Pay the fees electronically
How long does it take?
Processing usually takes 1 to 5 business days depending on the type of activity and the completeness of the documents. Some simple activities are approved immediately.
What are the fees?
The fees for issuing a commercial license and a direct work permit vary depending on the municipality or the authority responsible for the establishment, the type of commercial activity, and the size of the site. It is recommended to inquire about the fees directly through the Baladi platform.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I start the activity before obtaining a direct work permit?
A: No, operating the activity before obtaining the permit is prohibited, and fines are applied to violators.
Q: If I have more than one branch, do I need a permit for each branch?
A: Yes, each branch requires an independent permit based on its location and activity.
Q: Does a direct work permit have a specific validity period?
A: Yes, the permit has a specific validity period (usually one year) and requires renewal.
Q: What is the difference between a commercial license and a direct work permit?
A: The commercial license is the final permit that includes approval to operate the activity, while the direct work permit is often required as a temporary step for establishments that need to prepare the site first.
Q: Do I need to visit the municipality in person?
A: No, all procedures are conducted electronically through the Baladi or Baladi Aamal platforms.
A direct work permit is a necessary step to ensure a proper start to your business activity. With digital development in Saudi Arabia, you can now complete the entire process electronically without the hassle of government reviews.
