In brief
Defines who is Saudi, the conditions for acquiring nationality by naturalisation and for wives and children, and its loss, withdrawal and recovery.
Summary of the law
Key points
- One condition for naturalisation is having no prison sentence of more than six months for a moral offence (Article 9).
- Marriage and naturalisation affect a wife's nationality under Articles 12 and 14; several articles are amended, so see the notes under them.
An advisory summary prepared by Al-Bayan Al-Wadih Law Firm. It is not an official text and does not replace the law, its implementing regulations, or advice from a specialised lawyer. The official published text and its amendments prevail.
What it covers
- Who is Saudi
- Naturalisation
- Wives and children
- Loss and recovery
Timeline
- Issued: Council of Ministers Resolution 4 · 25/1/1374H
- Amendments: Royal Decree M/4 · 4/6/1389H. Amendment to some articles (shown on the law's page at the Bureau of Experts)
- Amendments: Royal Decree M/54 · 29/10/1425H. Amendment to some articles (shown on the law's page at the Bureau of Experts)
- Amendments: Royal Decree M/16 · 8/3/1428H. Amendment to some articles (shown on the law's page at the Bureau of Experts)
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: .