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What is the dividend withholding rate between Saudi Arabia and South Africa?

Under the Saudi Arabia-South Africa tax treaty, the withholding rate on dividends is 5% for portfolio investors (general rate). A reduced rate of 5% applies when the beneficial owner is a company holding a qualifying ownership stake (typically 10% or more of voting stock). Note that the reduced rate requires the recipient to file the appropriate treaty benefit claim form before payment. This 5% rate compares to a median of 5% across Saudi Arabia's 23 active treaty partners, and 15% across South Africa's 37 active partners.

Network Comparison

Saudi Arabia

Rank 17 of 23 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Lower rates with: Russia (5%), Singapore (5%), United States (5%)

Higher rates with: Italy (10%), Japan (10%), South Korea (10%)

South Africa

Rank 1 of 37 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Higher rates with: United Arab Emirates (10%), China (10%), Cyprus (10%)

Sources

Data last reviewed: 2026-04-07

Important: Treaty rates require proper claim forms (e.g., IRS Form W-8BEN for U.S. treaties, HMRC DT-Individual for U.K. treaties, CRA Form NR301 for Canadian treaties) filed before payment. Limitation on Benefits (LOB) provisions may restrict eligibility. A 0% withholding rate does not mean no tax β€” the residence country may still tax the income. This is not tax advice.

Related Questions: Saudi Arabia - South Africa