Foreign Property Ownership Rules in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has launched new regulations for non-Saudi real estate ownership, effective immediately. The Saudi Real Estate General Authority announced the implementation of the "Regulation on Real Estate Ownership by Non-Saudis," streamlining the process through the Saudi Properties digital portal. This platform will handle all applications electronically, from eligibility checks to final registration.

The new regulations cater to a diverse group, including residents with valid iqama permits, non-residents, and foreign companies. Residents can apply directly through the portal, while non-residents must initiate the process through Saudi embassies and missions abroad to obtain a digital identity. Foreign companies without a physical presence in Saudi Arabia must first register with the Ministry of Investment via the Invest Saudi portal and obtain a Unified Number before applying.

While the regulation permits non-Saudi ownership across various regions, key cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina will be subject to additional controls. A separate regulatory framework for these cities, based on geographic zoning, is expected by the first quarter of 2026. Ownership in Mecca and Medina will remain restricted to Saudi companies and Muslim individuals.

The Saudi Properties portal is the official gateway for the regulation, linked to the national real estate title registration platform. The authority aims to improve real estate development by attracting international developers. Official spokesperson Taiseer Al Mofarej stated that specific eligible sites and zones will be announced in the first quarter of the year. He also cautioned against unverified information, stating that no projects have been officially approved for non-Saudi ownership yet.