What Is the Difference Between a Complaint and a Lawsuit in Saudi Arabia?

What Is a Complaint?

A complaint is a report submitted to a competent authority (such as the Public Prosecution or police) regarding a criminal offense or harm. The aim is to initiate an investigation and hold the perpetrator accountable.

Complaints are commonly filed in cases such as:

• Fraud or scam
• Assault or physical violence
• Threats or extortion
• Cybercrimes

You can submit a complaint via local police stations, the official platforms of the Public Prosecution, or through the Kolona Amn mobile app.

What Is a Lawsuit?

A lawsuit (or legal claim) is a formal legal action filed before a competent court to obtain a binding judgment protecting a right or enforcing a legal obligation.

Examples of legal claims include:

• Claiming unpaid financial dues
• Contract termination
• Child custody or inheritance disputes
• Recovery of ownership or compensation

Claims are filed via the Najiz Portal operated by the Saudi Ministry of Justice.

When Should You File a Complaint vs. a Lawsuit?

You should file a complaint if you are the victim of a criminal act or require immediate government action—such as stopping a perpetrator or initiating a criminal investigation.

You should file a lawsuit if you are pursuing a financial, contractual, civil, or administrative right, and need a court ruling in your favor.

Can You File Both?

Yes, in many cases you can start with a criminal complaint and later file a civil lawsuit to claim compensation or enforce rights.

For example: if someone defrauded you financially, you can file a criminal complaint and then pursue a civil claim to recover your money.

What’s the Difference in Outcome?

A complaint may lead to criminal investigation and penalties such as imprisonment or fines. A lawsuit results in a binding court judgment obligating one party to act (e.g., pay, deliver, return).

Can You File a Complaint Online?

Yes, complaints can be submitted via:

• Kolona Amn App
• Public Prosecution Portal
• Local police departments

On the other hand, lawsuits are filed electronically via the Najiz Platform. You can also contact our legal team to professionally draft your claim.

Legal Conclusion:

A complaint is filed to report a criminal offense and initiate a public investigation, while a lawsuit is filed to assert a private right and obtain a court ruling. Each has its procedures and consequences, and it’s advisable to consult a lawyer to determine the best legal route based on your case.