Preparing the requirements for replacing the unified number in automated systems (automation) that require modification so that (adding/creating a field for the unified number identifier for non-governmental establishments in all necessary main, internal and external automated systems that include a field for the commercial register number), maintaining the current commercial register number field, and linking the new unified number field to the commercial register number field (two fields linked to each other). So, if the search and inquiry are carried out using the commercial register number, the unified number starting with the number (7) appears to the inquirer at the same time, and if the search and inquiry is carried out using the unified number, the commercial register number appears with it.

The current commercial register number field may be cancelled only under the guidance, non-objection, or SAMA's instructions in the future.

Urgently contracting with service providers in the event that the automated requirements necessary to replace the unified number are implemented by service providers (while adhering to the notified Rules on Outsourcing). So that this requirement is not a reason for delay.

The potential risks and effects of the process of replacing the unified number shall be identified, and plans shall be developed to avoid them, including business continuity plans and the necessary support (technical, human, etc.). Relationships shall be taken into account in automated systems related to high risks, including, but not limited to, credit, commercial operations, reservations, blocking transactions, stagnant ones, local and international (UN) lists, know your customer requirements in general, and what relates to verifying the true beneficiary.

All parties related to the replacement shall be identified, including, for example, the following:

The unified number corresponding to each commercial register number shall be obtained for each customer, business partner, and anyone whose unified number is required through the following:

As an exception to the requirement in Paragraph (6), in cases where it is not possible to obtain the unified number corresponding to the commercial registration number from Thiqah company, especially due to limited customers and other reasons, it can be obtained through the coordinators of SAMA whose data and information are described in previous circulars as per each sector. These data and information are requested from the coordinators via official e-mail via an Excel file encrypted with a secret number consisting of only one column that includes a list of commercial registration numbers only (it does not include any other information or data about customers). The password to open the file shall be sent in a subsequent email, and the coordinator will provide the requesting party with the unified numbers whose information is available through the same mechanism as the incoming request.

After obtaining the unified number corresponding to each commercial register for non-governmental establishments that have commercial registers (or those whose activity requires a commercial register, regardless of the status of the register, active / inactive / suspended / cancelled), the unified number shall be replaced in the field that was created in the automated system that identifies customers and business partners, in the test work environment.

The unified number shall be included in the automated systems in the actual environment (direct work) only after conducting the necessary tests in a test work environment, after reviewing all risks and safety means, ensuring that those risks are closed, and after obtaining approval from the relevant work unit to move to the actual environment as per the policies approved in this regard. The unified number shall be closely monitored after its application in the actual environment and the necessary measures shall be taken if the financial entity is affected. This excludes some financial institutions (other than banks, finance, and insurance) whose work does not require application in a test work environment (depending on the nature of their activities, automated systems, number of customers, and methods of dealing).

Given the direct effects of replacing the unified number on certain operational processes and services provided by financial entities and institutions supervised by SAMA through the national payments systems, Mada and Sadad in particular, therefore, we shall emphasize what the Saudi Payments Company previously shared with the banks in this regard regarding the following:

The amendment to the automated systems through which financial institutions (banks) are linked with SAMA shall include both Tanfeeth and SAMA Net Systems.

 When implementing instructions communicated by SAMA regarding making a reservation, requesting data or original documents, or executing a transfer, the following shall be adhered to:

When a customer applies to open an account/deal membership/establish a contractual relationship, the specific requirements shall be applied in the following cases:

Training and conducting necessary workshops for those concerned with application and implementation are important and urgent requirements.

A work team and a replacement manager shall be formed to take the necessary actions to manage and follow up on the practical and temporal plans.

SAMA must provide (to the coordinators whose data is reported to you by each sector) with a weekly report on the weekly achievements according to the schedule in the attached file and any amendments thereto later.