The Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority "Monsha'at" concluded the 11th Franchise Tour, held this week at the SMEs Support Center in Al-Khobar, to raise awareness of franchising, its regulations, and executive bylaws, while connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and relevant entities to support expansion and investment opportunities in the franchise sector.

The 11 franchise tours attracted 7,102 visitors, featured 27 speakers in panel discussions, and delivered 796 consulting and guidance sessions, providing direct support to entrepreneurs through certified experts and specialists. In addition, 3,284 beneficiaries attended the workshops, with the participation of 258 brands and 67 enabling entities.

Al-Khobar tour featured a keynote panel discussion titled The Role of Franchising in Supporting the Local Economy and Key Investment Opportunities and Government Support Services, with participation from specialists and stakeholders representing both the public and private sectors.

The tour also included eight specialized workshops. The first day covered legal aspects of franchising in Saudi Arabia, key franchising terminology, required documentation and regulations, how to become a certified franchise broker, brand marketing strategies, and methodologies for developing operational manuals.

The second day addressed franchise acquisition and investment opportunity assessment, expansion strategies, the franchising journey, and the role of supply chains, in addition to two workshops presented by supporting and enabling entities within the franchise market ecosystem.

Through its accompanying exhibition, the tour showcased several inspiring success stories and distinguished experiences, alongside the participation of more than 20 franchising brands that presented diverse investment opportunities to entrepreneurs and interested attendees.

Al-Khobar tour was organized in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce, National Transformation Program, Eastern Region Municipality, Saudi Competitiveness and Business Center, Social Development Bank, Small and Medium Enterprise Bank (SME Bank), Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, and Asharqia Chamber.

Monsha'at continues to strengthen the capabilities of entrepreneurs in the franchising sector through specialized initiatives and programs, given the sector’s vital role in supporting SMEs. Interested participants can register for upcoming tours through the following link: https://franchisesa.monshaat.gov.sa/