Non-Saudi Property Ownership Rules Take Effect Across Saudi Arabia

A new regulatory framework governing real estate ownership by non-Saudis has entered into force across Saudi Arabia, opening the application process to residents, non-residents and foreign-owned companies under defined conditions. The Real Estate General Authority said applications are now being accepted exclusively through the Saudi Properties digital platform, following the regulation’s activation within the Kingdom’s legislative system on January 22nd, 2026.

Residents may submit applications directly using their residency number, with eligibility verified automatically and procedures completed online. For non-residents, applications begin through Saudi missions and embassies abroad, which issue a digital identity enabling access to the Saudi Properties platform. Non-Saudi companies and entities without a physical presence in the Kingdom must first register with the Ministry of Investment via the Invest Saudi platform and obtain a Unified Number before applying electronically.

The authority said the Saudi Properties portal is integrated with the national real estate title registration system to verify compliance and finalise ownership, a step intended to strengthen transparency and protect ownership rights. The regulation permits ownership in multiple regions, while ownership in Riyadh and Jeddah will be subject to a forthcoming geographic zoning framework expected in the first quarter of 2026.

Special provisions apply to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, where ownership will be restricted to Saudi companies and Muslim individuals, whether resident inside or outside the Kingdom. The authority said a Geographical Areas for Ownership Document will define eligible zones and specific locations during the first quarter.

Alongside the regulation, the Law of Real Estate Ownership and Investment by Non-Saudis and related controls issued by the Capital Market Authority have also taken effect.