Saudi e-invoice requirements: fields, Arabic language and QR codes

A compliant Saudi e-invoice starts with the correct invoice type and accurate transaction data. Tax invoices and simplified tax invoices do not have identical requirements. The visible invoice must meet Arabic-language rules, and QR-code requirements depend on the invoice type and implementation phase. Use this guide as a review checklist and verify the current rules for your own transactions.

Start by choosing the correct invoice type

A tax invoice is generally used for business-to-business transactions, while a simplified tax invoice is generally used for business-to-consumer transactions. The type affects buyer information, VAT presentation and QR-code treatment. Read the tax invoice versus simplified tax invoice guide before configuring templates.

Which supplier details should be checked?

• Legal supplier name and address.
• VAT registration number when applicable.
• Invoice number, issue date and the relevant supply information.
• A clear description, quantity and price for the supplied goods or services.
• Taxable amount, VAT rate and VAT amount where required.

The exact mandatory elements depend on the document and transaction. Compare your setup with Article 53 guidance and the current ZATCA e-invoicing materials.

When is buyer information required?

For a tax invoice, buyer identification can include the customer’s legal name, address and VAT registration number when the buyer is VAT registered. Capture these details before the invoice is issued. A shared customer record reduces last-minute copying and makes it easier to verify what the sales team entered.

Must the invoice be in Arabic?

ZATCA’s e-invoicing FAQ says visible data fields on tax invoices, simplified tax invoices and related notes must be in Arabic. An invoice may also include English. Use bilingual descriptions where they help the customer, while keeping the required Arabic information present and readable.

What does the QR code mean?

A QR code is mandatory for simplified tax invoices under the stated requirements. Its content and cryptographic elements differ between implementation stages. A QR image added manually to a document is not a substitute for a correctly generated electronic invoice. Test the complete output from the invoicing solution.

A pre-issue review checklist

1. Confirm invoice type and customer status.
2. Verify supplier and buyer records.
3. Check line descriptions, quantities, discounts and VAT treatment.
4. Review totals and currency.
5. Confirm Arabic presentation and any required QR code.
6. Issue through the approved workflow and retain the electronic record.

Use one source of customer and product data

Kafy connects customer records, products and services, and sales and invoices. Test a representative tax invoice and simplified tax invoice during the 30-day trial, and confirm your company-specific configuration before going live. See the official ZATCA e-invoicing portal for current requirements.

Frequently asked questions

Can a Saudi invoice be bilingual?

Yes, ZATCA guidance allows English alongside Arabic, while the required visible data must be available in Arabic.

Does every invoice need the same QR code treatment?

No. Requirements depend on invoice type and phase. Confirm the current rules for the documents your company issues.

Is a PDF created in a word processor an e-invoice?

No. ZATCA explains that an invoice must be generated in a structured electronic format through electronic means; scanning or converting a paper-style document is not sufficient.