Saudi Network Information Center (SaudiNIC): Its Role and How to Register a Saudi Domain

Every domain ending in .sa or .السعودية goes through one organization: the Saudi Network Information Center (SaudiNIC). This article explains what SaudiNIC is, what it does, and how to register a Saudi domain today now that the registration model has changed.

What is SaudiNIC?

SaudiNIC is the organization responsible for managing and registering domain names in Saudi Arabia under the .sa and .السعودية extensions. It was founded in 1995 by King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, and is now operated under the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST).

What does SaudiNIC do?

• Manages the Saudi top-level domain .sa and the Arabic domain .السعودية.
• Operates the DNS servers for Saudi domains.
• Sets the registration regulations, eligibility rules and naming criteria.
• Licenses and supervises registrars.
• Provides tools such as the domain Whois lookup.

Can I register directly on the SaudiNIC website?

In the past, registrants applied directly through the SaudiNIC website. SaudiNIC has since moved to the internationally used registry–registrar model, and new domains can now only be registered through licensed registrars. Government entities register their domains through the Digital Government Authority.

This model lets you get your domain together with other services in one place, such as hosting, email and technical support.

How to register a Saudi domain today

1. Choose your name and make sure it meets the Saudi domain registration criteria.
2. Order the domain from a provider that registers through a licensed registrar, such as Hyyat Host.
3. Complete identity verification through Nafath: with your National ID for individuals, or your CR number for companies.
4. The request is submitted to SaudiNIC and the domain is activated once approved.

My domain is registered directly with SaudiNIC. What should I do?

Domains previously registered directly with SaudiNIC can be transferred to a registrar by requesting an Auth-code from the SaudiNIC portal. Follow our step-by-step Saudi domain transfer guide.

Ready to get your domain? Register your Saudi domain with Hyyat Host for SAR 99 per year. Activation usually takes up to 24 hours after Nafath verification.