Saudi Retailers Get Extra Three-Month Discount Season

The Ministry of Commerce has introduced an exceptional three-month discount season, allowing retailers and online stores in Saudi Arabia to run promotional campaigns from August 1st to October 31st, 2026, without using any of their annual allocation of discount days.

According to a circular issued to the Federation of Saudi Chambers, the seasonal initiative will operate in addition to the existing annual allowance for discount campaigns. The federation has encouraged private sector businesses to participate in the programme to maximise benefits for both retailers and consumers.

Businesses can apply electronically for discount licences through the Ministry of Commerce's website, after which permits can be printed and displayed for customers. The ministry has urged establishments to make use of the additional promotional window while complying with regulations governing discount campaigns.

Under current rules, commercial establishments are permitted to hold up to 90 days of discount campaigns each year, divided across a maximum of three periods. Individual licences may cover up to 45 days and can be issued for either storewide or partial discounts.

The ministry said the new August-to-October discount season will not be deducted from businesses' existing 90-day annual limit, allowing retailers to run the additional promotions while retaining their regular yearly allocation.