Steps for licensing public medical complexes in the event of an existing building
1- Issuing an investment license (for non-Saudis)
The process begins with the issuance of an investment license from the Ministry of Investment, a mandatory step for foreign investors wishing to establish a commercial facility in the Kingdom. This license serves as the initial authorization to initiate legal procedures.
2- Commercial registration
After obtaining the investment license, the company or establishment is registered with the Ministry of Commerce. The commercial register serves as the legal identity of the project and must include the activity “General Medical Complex.”
3- Registration with relevant government agencies
After obtaining a commercial registration, the establishment must complete registration with other government agencies related to the activity, such as the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development for the Personnel Affairs Department, the General Organization for Social Insurance, and the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority.
4- Site approval
The site approval application is submitted to the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing. The competent authorities will ensure that the existing building complies with all urban requirements for healthcare facilities, such as location, access, and area.
5- Obtaining initial approval
After the site is approved, an application is submitted to the Ministry of Health for preliminary approval. This approval is the green light that allows you to proceed with furnishing the building and hiring staff, a crucial step before embarking on major investments.
6- Issuing a business license and a safety license.
Documents and approvals are submitted to the relevant authorities to obtain two basic licenses:
- A business license from the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, which allows the business to operate legally.
- A safety license from the General Directorate of Civil Defense, which proves that the building meets all safety and security standards.
7- Endorsing and issuing visas for cadres
The Ministry of Health requests approval for work visas for non-Saudi medical personnel. After approval is obtained, the application is submitted to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development to issue the actual visas for the employees.
8- Final license application
After the building is fully equipped and staff is hired, the final licensing application is submitted via the Seha platform. This application represents the complex's readiness for operation.
9- Field inspection of the complex and equipment
A team from the Ministry of Health and the Saudi Central Board for Accreditation of Healthcare Institutions (CBAHI) is sent to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the complex. Every detail, from infrastructure to medical equipment and administrative systems, is examined to ensure compliance with standards. All medical equipment is also separately inspected to ensure it is licensed by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority.
10- Issuing the license and practicing the activity
After successfully completing all inspection stages and fulfilling all requirements, the Ministry of Health issues the final license to the medical complex. The complex is then officially and legally permitted to open its doors and provide services to patients.
