The Role of Shareholders in Corporate Governance in Saudi Arabia Within the Framework of Saudi Vision 2030: An Analysis Study.

Abstract

The present study examines the role of shareholders in corporate governance within the context of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. It analyses the functions and responsibilities of shareholders and how they influence and oversee company management. The study adopts both doctrinal and non-doctrinal approaches to explore the theoretical foundations of corporate governance, shareholders' rights and the legal environment in the country. The findings indicate the critical roles of shareholders as providers of capital, electors of directors, monitors of company performance and recipients of profits. They are entitled to fundamental rights, including voting on significant issues, access to information and receiving dividends. Saudi Arabia has recently enhanced legal shareholder protection through the 2015 Companies Law and the 2017 Corporate Governance Regulation. These policies have strengthened shareholders' voting rights, access to information and ability to influence major corporate decisions. However, minority shareholders continue to face challenges in environments with concentrated ownership. These issues include the lack of regulation enforcement, limited shareholder involvement and technological barriers. The study also suggests legal reforms to improve the position of minority shareholders, increase monitoring and penalties, initiate shareholder awareness and engagement and enhance access via technology. Overall, these insights are valuable for shaping policy and guiding corporate practices in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the ambitious goals of Vision 2030 to enhance governance and integrate global best practices. Keywords: Saudi Arabia, corporate, governance, shareholders, regulations, company, law.