Opening a barbershop in Saudi Arabia is a realistic way to run your own business, but you need a clear picture of upfront and ongoing costs. Rents and costs vary by city—Riyadh and Jeddah are generally more expensive than Dammam, Mecca or Medina for comparable premises—and by the size and fit-out of your shop. Everything in this guide is in Saudi riyals (SAR / ﷼). For licensing and legal steps, see How to start a barbershop.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Saudi Arabia: quick answer
Small barbershop (1–2 chairs): SAR 45,000 – SAR 140,000. Medium (3–4 chairs): SAR 140,000 – SAR 340,000. Premium (Riyadh/Jeddah): SAR 550,000+. These figures include equipment, rent (deposit plus first months), fit-out, licences and working capital.
Rent and premises: what to expect in Saudi Arabia
Rent is one of the biggest fixed costs. Prime commercial streets and malls cost more; suburbs and smaller cities are cheaper. Below are indicative monthly rents.
- Riyadh (Olaya, King Fahd Road, Granada, Al Malaz): SAR 4,000 – SAR 18,000+ per month.
- Riyadh (other areas): SAR 2,200 – SAR 8,500 per month.
- Jeddah (Tahlia, Rawdah, Al Hamra, Corniche): SAR 3,500 – SAR 16,000 per month.
- Dammam, Khobar, Dhahran (prime): SAR 2,800 – SAR 11,000 per month.
- Mecca, Medina (commercial): SAR 2,500 – SAR 10,000 per month.
- Smaller cities: SAR 1,500 – SAR 5,500 per month.
Landlords often ask for 1–2 months’ deposit and advance rent. Factor in at least 2–3 months’ rent for deposit and first payments.
Equipment and licences
For a 1–2 chair setup, expect roughly SAR 18,000 – SAR 55,000 on chairs, mirrors, clippers, scissors, wash basins and basic furniture. Licences and registrations (Monsha’at, municipality, health) can add SAR 2,500 – SAR 10,000. More detail: how to start a barbershop.
Management software
Barbería Club helps you manage appointments and clients from day one. You can try Barbería Club for free.
Cost breakdown by shop size (SAR)
| Item | Small | Medium | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment | SAR 18,000 – 55,000 | SAR 50,000 – 120,000 | SAR 120,000 – 240,000 |
| Rent (deposit + 2 months) | SAR 7,000 – 28,000 | SAR 14,000 – 48,000 | SAR 24,000 – 72,000 |
| Fit-out, licences, marketing | SAR 6,000 – 22,000 | SAR 12,000 – 40,000 | SAR 22,000 – 68,000 |
| Working capital | SAR 7,000 – 22,000 | SAR 14,000 – 42,000 | SAR 28,000 – 65,000 |
| Total (SAR) | SAR 45,000 – 140,000 | SAR 140,000 – 340,000 | SAR 340,000 – 550,000+ |
Profitability and ways to save
Typical gross margin for a well-run barbershop in Saudi Arabia is 55–70%. Break-even often occurs within 6–12 months if location and pricing are right. To keep costs down: consider second-hand equipment, negotiate rent, use low-cost marketing (Google Business Profile, Instagram, Snapchat) and efficient booking software.
Local SEO and visibility in Saudi Arabia
Claim and optimise your Google Business Profile (name, address, phone, hours, photos, services). Use keywords like “حلاقة رجالي [منطقة]” or “barbershop [city]” on your site and listings. Encourage Google reviews for local ranking.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need?
A small barbershop usually needs SAR 45,000–140,000; a medium one SAR 140,000–340,000. A premium shop in Riyadh or Jeddah can exceed SAR 550,000.
Is it profitable?
Yes. With a good location and operations, many barbershops hit break-even within 6–12 months.
What licences do I need?
Register your business (Monsha’at / Ministry of Commerce), obtain a commercial licence and municipal permit, and comply with health regulations. Full steps: how to start a barbershop.
How much does the owner make?
An owner who also cuts might earn SAR 5,500–16,000 per month in a small shop. With 3–4 barbers, owner income often reaches SAR 12,000–30,000 or more per month.
Opening a barbershop in Saudi Arabia step by step
For licensing and legal requirements, see our guide: How to start a barbershop.