Daijiworld Media Network - Riyadh
Riyadh, Jan 23: Saudi Arabia has officially implemented a landmark law allowing non-Saudis to own property, effective January 22, as announced by the Real Estate General Authority (REGA). Applications are now being accepted through a single digital platform, Saudi Properties, marking a significant step in opening the Kingdom’s real estate sector to foreign individuals and companies under regulated conditions.
All property ownership requests from non-Saudis, whether residents, non-residents, or companies, must now be submitted through the Saudi Properties portal, which serves as the central hub for applications, approvals, and compliance checks. The platform is integrated with the national real estate registration system to ensure transparency, legal clarity, and protection of ownership rights throughout the process.
The application process varies by category. Residents can apply directly using their Saudi residency ID, with eligibility verified automatically and the process completed digitally. Non-residents must first obtain a digital identity through Saudi embassies or missions abroad before submitting applications online. Non-Saudi companies without a local presence must register with the Ministry of Investment via Invest Saudi, obtain a Unified Number (700), and then proceed with their ownership requests.
While non-Saudis are allowed to own property across much of the Kingdom, certain cities are subject to specific restrictions. Riyadh, Jeddah, and the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah follow zoning-based regulations, with a Geographic Zones Document expected in early 2026. Ownership in Makkah and Madinah remains limited to Saudi companies and Muslim individuals, whether residing in or outside the Kingdom. REGA has stressed that no projects have yet been officially approved for non-Saudi ownership and advised investors to rely solely on official announcements.
The law is not just a regulatory measure but a strategic economic initiative aimed at boosting real estate quality, attracting international developers, and stimulating growth across residential, commercial, industrial, and tourism sectors. It is also expected to create jobs for Saudi citizens in real estate and urban development while enhancing the sector’s contribution to the non-oil GDP.
REGA has encouraged interested applicants to access the Saudi Properties portal or contact the unified call centre at 920017183 for guidance as the new system comes into effect.