Article 9 of the Saudi E-Commerce Law

Some services provided electronically may be provided only by someone who holds a license or permit from a competent body, because the profession is subject to particular regulation. This Article places a special disclosure obligation on whoever provides such services through e-commerce.

The Article applies to a service provider who meets two descriptions: he practices a profession subject to particular regulation, and that profession requires a license or permit to practice it. He must disclose:

1. The body he is registered with, and the details of the license or permit issued by it.
2. The professional title in use, and the country that granted him this title.
3. Other information specified by the Implementing Regulations.

The purpose is to enable the consumer to verify that the service provider is qualified and licensed, and to know the body he answers to. Stating the country that granted the title matters because professional titles may be granted in different countries.

The Article does not identify the professions meant by name, and does not itself grant a license, so it is no substitute for obtaining the license from the competent body under the regulation of the profession. This obligation differs from the invoice that Article 8 requires be given to the consumer after the contract is concluded; the invoice concerns the contract's costs and delivery, while this Article concerns the professional service provider's status and license. It is also linked to Article 10, which requires an electronic advertisement to include the service provider's name and contact means.

A person who provides a professional service online and needs to verify their obligations can consult a lawyer specialized in commercial cases.