Renewing a Municipal License in Saudi Arabia 2025

Renewing a municipal license via the Balady platform is one of the most important e-services provided by the government to business owners. It aims to simplify the procedures related to renewing commercial licenses without the need to visit government offices—saving time and effort for citizens and residents who wish to renew their licenses. The platform also allows users to view the required documents and conditions for renewal and learn the procedures for canceling a license if the commercial activity has ceased.

In this article, we explain how to renew a municipal license on the Balady platform with ease, clarifying the documents and conditions required for renewal as well as the applicable fees.

How to renew a municipal license

Municipal licenses can be renewed online for citizens’ convenience. Here’s how to renew your municipal license electronically:

• Go to the Balady portal.
• Click “Sign in” via the National Single Sign-On (Nafath) using your Absher credentials.
• From the home page, choose “e-Services.”
• Select “Professional Licenses,” then “Renew Professional License.”
• Enter the details of the shop whose license you want to renew.
• Enter the personal details of the shop owner.
• Attach the required documents for renewal, then confirm your renewal request.
• After submitting the request, the license will be renewed automatically. You may visit the municipality office to confirm approval of your submitted request.

If you’d like to inquire about more steps for renewing a municipal license, call us at Al-Safi Security & Safety Systems.

How much are municipal license renewal fees?

The fee for a new instant municipal license differs from the renewal fee. Fees vary by the city where the activity is located and the zone classification. To make fee calculation easier, the Ministry has launched an electronic fee calculator on the Balady platform so you can know the exact amount due.

Generally, fees range from SAR 1 to SAR 300 per square meter, depending on the zone classification.

What’s required to renew a municipal license?

Below are the items required for a successful municipal license renewal:

• The license must be renewed within 90 days before its expiry date.
• A title deed, investment contract, or lease for the site issued by a government entity or the municipality.
• A safety tools certificate from certified companies, or a technical report from an engineering office accredited by the Civil Defense Directorate, or a safety permit according to the activity listed on the license.

When should a shop license be renewed?

Renew the license before it is canceled or expires to avoid late fees. You can renew up to 90 days before the expiry date.

Conditions for renewing a municipal license

Certain conditions must be met for successful renewal on the Balady platform:

• The shop must comply with regulations and conditions set in the Kingdom.
• A registered official mailing address for the shop.
• Services and products offered must match the licensed activity.
• The shop area must not be less than one square meter.

Documents required for municipal license renewal

The following documents must be submitted to ensure successful renewal:

• A copy of the national ID or residence card (Iqama), valid.
• Copies of previous licenses issued by relevant authorities.
• A copy of the lease or title deed to prove ownership of the premises.
• If the activity is registered under a woman’s name, provide a legal power of attorney.
• Specify the shop name in Arabic in a way that matches the activity.
• Upload all required documents through the Balady platform as part of the online application.

Late renewal fines

• A municipal license is essential for any business—whether a small shop or a large institution. It is issued by the municipality and renewed annually to ensure the business operates legally under the supervision of the competent authorities.
• If you delay renewal after expiry, the municipality imposes a financial fine for an expired municipal license. The amount varies by the length of delay and the type of activity. The aim is to encourage business owners to meet renewal deadlines, as operating without a valid license is a violation punishable by law.
• Renewing on time protects you from fines and avoids temporary suspension or even closure. Always track the expiry date and renew early—municipal e-platforms make the process easy.

Best company for renewing a municipal license

If you want to renew your municipal license without the hassle of routine procedures, you can contact us at Al-Safi—the ideal choice. We offer:

• Extensive experience: Our team has broad experience handling all municipal transactions.
• Time and effort savings: We handle all renewal procedures for you so you can focus on your business.
• Accuracy and compliance: We ensure all transactions align with local laws and regulations.
• Ongoing support: We provide support and advice at every step until your license is renewed.

Don’t hesitate to contact Al-Safi to renew your license quickly and easily.

This is how to renew a municipal license on the Balady platform with ease. Renewal has become simple so all beneficiaries can complete the process in a few steps, without visiting government offices—right from home using a mobile device—provided they meet the conditions and have the documents required.

Frequently asked questions about municipal license renewal

When do you renew a municipal license?

A municipal license is issued for one year and is renewable. The business owner must renew at least 30 days before expiry to avoid fines or closure. The owner must also inform the municipality of any changes to responsible-person data, location, activity, or other information recorded on the license.

What is the benefit of a municipal license?

A municipal license provides legal protection for your business, helping ensure continuity and avoid legal issues. Customers also prefer dealing with legally licensed entities. If you plan to add services or expand activities, having a license is essential.

How much are municipal license modification fees?

The fee to modify a municipal license is SAR 150, payable to the relevant authorities.

How long does it take to obtain a municipal license?

Timelines vary by location and activity type, but typically range from one week to one month.

Can the license be canceled?

Yes. It can be canceled by submitting a cancellation request via the Balady e-platform.

Are there fines for an expired municipal license?

Yes. Fines for expiry or non-renewal are imposed by municipalities or secretariats in accordance with the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing regulations.