Online stores: authentication, the Ministry of Commerce's ten criteria, and penalties

Where is a store authenticated?

Since April 2023, store authentication has moved from Maroof to the Business platform of the Saudi Business Center, which became the only official platform for authentication ^[1].

Authentication requirements include a valid e-commerce certificate, an active Commercial Registration or a professional document such as the Freelance Document, and a business (not personal) bank account ^[2].

Consumers can look up an authenticated store through the Tawakkalna app using the certificate number or the Unified National Number ^[3].

The ten criteria for assessing stores

• Authentication on the Saudi Business Center platform.
• An exchange and returns policy.
• A shipping and delivery policy.
• A complaints policy.
• A privacy policy.
• The store's link recorded in the Commercial Registration.
• The VAT number and licences on the home page.
• The Commercial Registration number and licences on the home page.
• A visible "Contact us" page.
• A secure, fast website over HTTPS.

Source: Ministry of Commerce announcement of 18 August 2025 ^[4].

Penalties

Fines under the E-Commerce Law can reach SAR 1 million, with the possibility of blocking the website, barring the violator and publishing the ruling ^[5].

Frequently asked questions