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If you want to start an online store in Saudi Arabia or are currently operating in e-commerce, you've certainly heard about store verification on the Ministry of Commerce's "Maroof" platform.
But the frequently asked question is: Is this verification mandatory? Or is it just an additional option? And how is it done?
In this blog, we'll explain everything about verifying online stores in the Kingdom in a simple and clear manner, walking you through it step by step.
1. What does online store verification mean?
Store verification means registering store data on the "Maroof" platform, an official platform launched by the Saudi Ministry of Commerce with the aim of enhancing the reliability of online stores, protecting consumers, and regulating the digital market.
After verification, the "Maroof" logo appears on your store, enabling customers to confirm that your store is official and registered, which increases their trust in you.
2. Is verification mandatory for all stores?
Yes, according to recent updates from the Ministry of Commerce and the Digital Commerce Authority, verification has become mandatory for every online store operating in the Kingdom.
Especially if you provide services or sell products on a regular basis, you must prove your business presence and obtain a commercial registration or self-employment document.
3. Types of Verification on the Maroof Platform
There are two types of verification on Maroof:
• Verification without a commercial registration:
Suitable for individuals who sell individually, such as simple businesses from home or via social media. An ID number and some basic information are sufficient.
• Verification with a commercial registration:
This type gives you a "trusted mark" and is considered stronger in terms of official trust. It is used by most large online stores. It requires an official commercial registration in the store's name.
4. Steps to Verify Your Store on the Maroof Platform
The steps are easy and don't take long, and we'll summarize them for you here:
1. Go to the official Maroof website
https://maroof.sa
2. Log in via the "National Access" (Absher)
using your personal account.
3. Choose the type of business activity
whether with a commercial registration or without.
4. Enter the store information
such as the store name, website or account link, activity description, and field.
5. Attach the required information, such as a copy of your ID or commercial registration, depending on the type.
6. Wait for review and approval.
A response and confirmation of verification are usually received within 1-3 business days.
5. What are the benefits of verifying your store?
Verifying your store has many benefits, the most important of which are:
• Increases customer confidence in you, especially if a well-known logo appears on your website.
• Helps raise your store's ranking in search results.
• Proves that you are conducting business legally within Saudi Arabia.
• Some payment platforms and companies, such as electronic payment gateways, require verification or a commercial registration to link your store.
6. Do you need a commercial registration to verify your store?
As mentioned, you can verify without a commercial registration, but this verification is considered "essential."
However, if you want to obtain a "trusted" mark and unlock more benefits, such as entering competitions and official contracts, it is best to obtain a commercial registration from the Ministry of Commerce.
Here are the steps in brief:
1. Log in to https://cr.sa
2. Choose the type of activity
3. Fill out the information
4. Pay the fees (approximately 200 SAR per year)
5. Issue the registration immediately
• How can you make verification a marketing tool for your store?
Don't let verification be a mere routine procedure. Use it as a marketing element, and let customers see that your store is official.
For example:
• Add the "Marouf" logo to the product page or footer.
• Create a social media ad: "Our store is officially verified with Marouf"
• Include a link to your Marouf page in your bio or "About Us" page.
This gives you a professional impression and gains the trust of new visitors.
Verifying your online store in Saudi Arabia has become an essential part of building trust with customers. It's a simple process, but it has a significant impact on the success and continuity of your store.
Don't wait until you encounter a problem; take the initiative from the beginning and be officially ready.
If you're thinking of starting your own online store, contact us at Sahl. We'll help you every step of the way—from building your store, to documentation, to integration with payment and shipping gateways.
الإشعارات الذكية داخل التطبيق تقدر ترجع عملاءك لإكمال الطلبات بدل ما يتركوها
إضافة خريطة لفروع متجرك تعطي مصداقية أكبر وتخلي العميل يحس إن المتجر قريب منه وموثوق
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