How to Verify a Trusted Online Store in Saudi Arabia (2026 Guide)

"Is this store actually legit?" is one of the most common things Saudi shoppers check before buying online. As e-commerce has grown, so has the risk of fake stores — which is why the Ministry of Commerce now requires every online store to be officially verified. This guide explains exactly how to check any store before you buy, and how to verify your own.

Why Verification Is Mandatory

Saudi Arabia's E-Commerce Law requires every store selling to consumers online to be verified with the Ministry of Commerce, whether the owner operates under a commercial registration (CR) or a Freelance Work Document. The goal is to protect shoppers from fake storefronts and build trust in online shopping.

How to Check If a Store Is Verified (Step by Step)

1. Go to the official inquiry tool on the Business Platform (business.sa), or browse the store directory on Maroof (maroof.sa)
2. Pick a search method: verification number, commercial registration number, the business's unified number, freelance document number, or the store name/link
3. Enter the details and submit the inquiry
4. Review the result: business name, verification status, and registration type (CR or freelance document)

Red Flags of an Unverified Store

• No match in the inquiry tool no matter which search method you try
• No commercial registration or freelance document number shown on the site
• No clear contact information (address, phone, email)
• Unrealistically low prices combined with insistence on upfront payment only
• No "Maroof" badge or verification link in the site footer

How to Get Your Own Store Verified

If you run an online store, verification isn't optional — it's a legal requirement. You apply through the Business Platform (business.sa) using your commercial registration or freelance document. Once approved, your store appears in inquiry results and you can display the verification badge on your site — an instant trust signal for potential customers.