If you run a restaurant or café in Saudi Arabia, you have probably heard the word Fatoora many times. It is the name of ZATCA's e-invoicing programme, and it changes how every sale is recorded and reported. The good news: with the right system, most of the work happens quietly in the background.
The two phases in simple terms
ZATCA introduced e-invoicing in two stages. The first stage is about generation: invoices must be created electronically in a standard format, carry a QR code, and can no longer be handwritten or edited after they are issued. The second stage is about integration: your system connects to ZATCA's platform so invoices are shared and validated in near real time.
- Phase 1 (generation): standard electronic invoices, QR code, an archive you can retrieve, and no manual changes after issuing.
- Phase 2 (integration): your POS or RMS is linked to ZATCA, and invoices are cleared or reported through that connection.
What this means at the till
Your cashiers should not have to think about any of this. A compliant POS issues the correct invoice for every order automatically, prints or sends it to the guest, and keeps a secure record. If a mistake is made, the correction is handled through a credit note rather than by editing the original invoice.
A short checklist for your restaurant
- Confirm your POS or RMS supports both phases and is updated by the provider when ZATCA publishes changes.
- Make sure your tax details (VAT number, business name, address) are entered correctly once, at setup.
- Train staff on refunds and corrections: always use the credit-note flow, never workarounds.
- Keep invoices archived and easy to find for the period required by regulations.
- Check that your printers and tablets can show the QR code clearly on every receipt.
Compliance should feel like a feature of your POS, not a task for your team.
Choosing a system that keeps you compliant
When you compare providers, ask three simple questions: Is ZATCA compliance built in or an add-on? Who keeps it updated when requirements change? And is there local support if something stops working during a busy service? Imdady is built for Saudi restaurants and keeps e-invoicing at the centre of the product, so your team can focus on guests instead of paperwork.
