The Société Anonyme Libanaise (SAL) is a joint-stock company suited to medium and large-scale businesses, particularly where foreign investors or outside shareholders are involved.
- Shareholders – a minimum of three, Lebanese or foreign, individuals or entities.
- Minimum capital – LBP 30,000,000 (approx. USD 20,000), with 25% deposited in a Lebanese bank upon formation.
- Board of directors – three to twelve members, the majority of whom must be Lebanese nationals.
- Auditor – a licensed auditor must be appointed.
- Shares – freely negotiable, and eligible for listing on the stock exchange.
An SAL offers limited liability, a stronger corporate profile for investors, and foreign ownership with only minor limitations on board composition. Mattar Law Firm handles the full formation process – drafting the Articles of Association and bylaws, capital deposit, notarization, Commercial Registry filing and tax registration.