In brief
Criminalises obtaining others' property by fraudulent means such as lies, deception and illusion, and misappropriating or dishonestly disposing of property entrusted by work, trust, partnership or agency, punishing incitement, complicity and attempt.
Summary of the law
Penalties
- Fraud: up to seven years' imprisonment and up to SAR 5 million, or either (Article 1).
- Breach of trust outside public funds, e.g. a partner, agent or employee taking what was entrusted to them: up to five years and SAR 3 million, or either (Article 2).
- Attempt: up to half the maximum penalty (Article 4).
Practical tip
- A criminal case does not replace a claim for the money; keep proof of handover, transfers and correspondence from day one.
A plain-language summary prepared by Al-Bayan Al-Wadih Law Firm, focused on the violations and problems that come up most in daily life. It is not a substitute for the official text or for legal advice.
What it covers
- Financial fraud
- Breach of trust
- Incitement, complicity and attempt
Timeline
- Issued: Royal Decree M/79 · 10/9/1442H
Full record of amendments and regulations at the official source
Official text at the Bureau of Experts
The authoritative text is in Arabic; the Bureau of Experts publishes English translations for some laws.
Full official text
The full official text is in Arabic and is reproduced on the Arabic version of this page, as published by the Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers. Read the full Arabic text
Library content is simplified general information for awareness only. It is not legal advice and does not replace the official text. Laws change: always check the official source and consult a lawyer before acting. Library data last reviewed: .