Saudi Arabia Activates Law Permitting Foreign Ownership of Real Estate

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has formally opened its real estate market to non-Saudi ownership following the entry into force of a new law regulating foreign ownership, according to Saudi Real Estate General Authority (REGA). The legislation became effective on January 22 and is now being implemented as part of the Kingdom’s broader real estate legislative framework.

The move marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to modernise its property sector, enhance transparency and attract international capital in line with Vision 2030 objectives.

Digital application process via official portal

REGA confirmed that applications for non-Saudis seeking to own real estate in the Kingdom are being received through the official digital platform “Saudi Properties.” The service is available to residents, non-residents, and non-Saudi companies and entities, subject to defined regulatory requirements and procedural controls.

For residents of Saudi Arabia, applications can be submitted directly through the portal using a valid residency ID, with eligibility verified automatically and procedures completed electronically.

Non-residents must first obtain a digital identification number through Saudi embassies and missions abroad, which then enables them to submit ownership requests via the same platform.

Clear pathway for foreign companies and investors

REGA explained that non-Saudi companies and entities without a physical presence in the Kingdom are required to register with the Ministry of Investment through the “Invest Saudi” platform. Upon registration, they must obtain a unified number before completing real estate ownership procedures electronically.

This structured approach is intended to ensure regulatory oversight while simplifying access for international investors and corporate buyers.

Watch: Saudi Arabia Opens Real Estate Market to Foreigners in Landmark Reform

Ownership rules for major cities and holy sites

Under the new law, non-Saudi individuals, companies and entities are permitted to own real estate across multiple regions of the Kingdom. Ownership in major urban centres such as Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as in Makkah and Madinah, will be governed by a clear regulatory framework based on the Geographic Zones Document, which is scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2026.

REGA clarified that ownership in the two holy cities is restricted exclusively to Saudi companies and Muslim individuals, whether based inside or outside the Kingdom.

Boosting transparency and long-term sector growth

REGA noted that the “Saudi Properties” portal serves as the sole official digital platform for implementing the new law, allowing applicants to complete transactions, verify compliance and ensure alignment with the national real estate registration system. This integration is designed to strengthen transparency, protect rights and improve market governance.

The authority added that the law is expected to enhance the quality of real estate developments by attracting international developers and specialised firms, while stimulating growth across residential, commercial, industrial and tourism sectors. In addition, it is anticipated to generate broader employment opportunities for Saudi nationals and support the real estate sector’s sustainable contribution to non-oil GDP.