How to Create Compliant Ads for Saudi Customers
Creating ads compliant with Saudi regulations isn't an added complication — it's a competitive advantage. Brands that follow the rules build trust faster with Saudi consumers who are increasingly aware of their rights. This guide covers how to create ads that are both effective and legal.
Also read: Ad Compliance Checklist
The Core Framework: 4 Pillars of Compliant Advertising
| Pillar | Meaning | Responsible Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Truthfulness | Every claim in the ad is accurate and provable | Ministry of Commerce |
| Transparency | Prices and conditions are fully clear | ZATCA + Ministry of Commerce |
| Disclosure | Paid content and sponsorships are declared | GCAM |
| Respect | Content respects cultural and religious values | GCAM + Society |
Writing Ad Copy
Safe Phrases ✅
| Instead of | Use |
|---|---|
| "Best product in Saudi Arabia" | "One of the leading products in its category" |
| "100% guaranteed" | "Proven results backed by customer experience" |
| "Cheapest price" | "Competitive pricing" or "Best value" |
| "Exclusively ours" | "Available with us" (unless truly exclusive) |
| "Guaranteed cure" | Completely prohibited without SFDA license |
Compliant Ad Copy Structure
- Headline — clear, mentions the product or core benefit
- Description — provable claims + real benefits
- Price — VAT-inclusive at 15%, in Saudi Riyals
- CTA — clear call to action
- Required data — advertiser name, terms, return policy
Visual Content Design
Image and Video Guidelines
| Element | Allowed ✅ | Prohibited ❌ |
|---|---|---|
| People | Modest clothing appropriate for Saudi context | Content that violates local values |
| Products | Real photos of the actual product | Excessively edited images |
| Food | Authentic photos of the actual dish served | Images different from the real product |
| Results | Realistic results with documentation | Exaggerated outcomes |
Design Tips
- Use colors that resonate with Saudi taste
- Feature Arabic prominently (right-aligned for RTL)
- Use clear, modern Arabic fonts
- Ensure text is readable on mobile (95% of users)
Advertising on Each Platform
Google (Search and Shopping)
- Headline: includes target keyword + benefit
- Description: proven performance + VAT-inclusive price
- Extensions: Saudi phone number + address + sitelinks
- Landing page: in Arabic, mobile-optimized, clear pricing
Snapchat
- Format: vertical video, 3–10 seconds
- Language: Saudi or Gulf colloquial is acceptable
- Tone: youthful, authentic, but respectful
- Disclosure: "Ad" label if via an influencer
Instagram and TikTok
- Content: UGC (user-generated content) performs best
- Disclosure: #Ad or #PaidPartnership hashtag
- Shopping: link products directly to your store
- Price: visible in content, VAT-inclusive
Ready-to-Use Compliant Ad Template
Electronics Product Ad
Headline: iPhone 16 Pro — Available Now with Interest-Free Installments
Description: Order iPhone 16 Pro 256GB with a full year warranty. Price includes tax. Delivery in 1–3 days to all Saudi cities. 7-day return policy.
Price: SAR 4,499 including VAT
CTA: Order Now
Advertiser details: [Store Name] — Commercial Registration XXXXXXX
Paid Influencer Advertising
Disclosure Requirements
- Label "Ad" or "إعلان" within the first 3 seconds of video
- Or write #Ad in the first line of caption text
- Don't hide the label in small font or matching background color
- Disclosure must be clearly visible to an ordinary viewer
Details: How to Work with Influencers Legally in Saudi Arabia
Helpful Tools
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Google Mobile-Friendly Test | Verify page mobile compatibility |
| Auto VAT Calculator | Calculate tax-inclusive pricing |
| Grammarly Arabic (or native reviewer) | Arabic copy proofreading |
| CanvaPro | Design with local templates |
FAQ
Can I use Saudi colloquial Arabic in ads?
Yes, colloquial is accepted in social media ads and entertainment content. For official ads and e-commerce stores, simplified Modern Standard Arabic is preferred.
What if an influencer violates disclosure rules?
The brand shares partial responsibility. Include a disclosure clause in the influencer contract, review content before publishing, and keep a copy of the disclosure agreement.
Must I mention the return policy in every ad?
Not necessarily in the ad itself, but it must be clearly visible on the product page or e-commerce store and accessible before purchase.
