Saudi E-Commerce Advertising Rules for Online Stores — Everything You Need to Know
E-commerce advertising in Saudi Arabia is governed by a strict set of regulations including the E-Commerce Law, Anti-Commercial Fraud Law, and Consumer Protection Law. Every online store advertising digitally — whether on Google, social media, or classified platforms — must comply with these rules to avoid fines reaching SAR 1 million.
Full guide: Saudi E-Commerce Advertising Rules
The Regulatory Framework
Key Regulations
| Regulation | Issued | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| E-Commerce Law | 1440H | Online store regulation |
| Anti-Commercial Fraud Law | 1429H | Misleading advertisements |
| Consumer Protection Law | 1435H | Buyer rights |
| Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) | 1443H | Data collection and use |
| Advertising Content Rules | GCAM | Media advertisements |
What Every Ad Must Display
Mandatory Information
Every e-commerce ad must include or lead to a page containing:
- Store/company name — Official trade name
- Commercial Registration number — Visible on the store
- Contact details — Working email or phone number
- Actual price — Including 15% VAT
- Return policy — Clear and available before purchase
- Accurate product description — Matches the actual product
- Promotion terms — If the ad includes any offer or discount
Maroof E-Commerce Platform
Stores registered on the "Maroof" platform get a trust badge that enhances credibility:
- Verification number
- Maroof profile link
- Customer ratings
Ad Content Rules
Allowed ✅
- Showing the product with real, accurate images
- Mentioning verifiable product features
- Objective comparison with competitors using facts
- Displaying genuine customer reviews
- Showing discounts with original and new prices
- Using quality certifications and accreditations
Prohibited ❌
- Medical claims without SFDA licensing
- "The best" or "Number 1" without documented proof
- Prices without VAT — immediate violation
- Over-edited images — especially food and beauty
- Undeliverable promises — "1-hour delivery" if not possible
- Copying images from other stores — copyright violation
- Hidden terms — all offers must have clear conditions
Channel-Specific Rules
1. Search Engine Ads (Google)
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Landing page | Must match the ad content |
| Pricing | VAT-inclusive in both ad and page |
| Location | Accurate Saudi Arabia targeting |
| Restricted keywords | No use of competitor brand names as trademarks |
| HTTPS | Mandatory for all store pages |
2. Social Media Ads
| Platform | Additional Rules |
|---|---|
| Snapchat | No alcohol/tobacco ads, local content standards |
| Disclose paid content using partnership tool | |
| TikTok | Label ads, no targeting under 13 years |
| Twitter/X | Comply with local advertising policies |
3. Influencer Ads
- GCAM license required for influencers
- Clear "Ad" or "Paid partnership" label
- Influencer shares responsibility with the store for claim accuracy
- No promotion of prohibited products
More details: How to Work with Influencers in Saudi Arabia Legally
4. Marketing Messages (SMS/Email)
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Consent | Explicit prior opt-in required |
| Unsubscribe | Opt-out link/method in every message |
| Timing | No sending between 9 PM and 8 AM without permission |
| Content | Sender identity must be clear |
| Registration | Register with CITC for bulk messages |
Pricing and Promotion Rules in Ads
Price Display
- Every price must include 15% VAT
- Pre-tax pricing only allowed with clear notice
- Currency in Saudi Riyal (SAR)
- Any additional fees (shipping, installation) must be disclosed upfront
Discount Ads
- Original price must be genuine (sold at for 30+ days)
- Discount percentage matches the actual difference
- Promotion duration specified with start and end dates
- Quantity mentioned if limited
Also read: How to Run Discounts Legally in Saudi Arabia
Data Protection in Digital Advertising
The Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) directly impacts advertising:
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Tracking pixels | User notification and consent |
| Retargeting | Explicit user acceptance |
| Email/phone collection | Clear opt-in consent |
| Data sharing | No selling customer data to third parties |
| Storage | Secure storage within the Kingdom or with consent |
Fines and Penalties
| Violation | Potential Fine |
|---|---|
| Misleading advertising | Up to SAR 1,000,000 |
| Price without VAT | Up to SAR 50,000 |
| E-Commerce Law violation | Up to SAR 1,000,000 |
| PDPL violation | Up to SAR 5,000,000 |
| Undisclosed paid advertising | Up to SAR 500,000 |
| Repeat offense | Double fine + temporary closure |
Compliance Steps for Online Stores
- Review every ad before publishing using a checklist
- Document approvals — Keep copies of every ad with approval date
- Train your team — Ensure marketing staff knows the regulations
- Update policies — Review store policies every 3 months
- Consult an advisor — Especially for sensitive sectors (food, health, beauty)
Full checklist: Saudi Ad Compliance Checklist
FAQ
Must every online store register on Maroof?
Registration on Maroof isn't legally mandatory but is strongly recommended as it boosts consumer trust and improves conversion rates.
What's the difference between the E-Commerce Law and Anti-Fraud Law?
The E-Commerce Law regulates online store operations (displayed information, digital consumer rights). The Anti-Fraud Law covers misleading advertisements across all channels.
Do the rules apply to Instagram stores?
Yes — any online selling or advertising activity falls under the E-Commerce Law regardless of the platform.
How do I check if my ads are compliant?
Use the compliance checklist, review your ads with a legal advisor, and follow the Ministry of Commerce's official account for updates.
