Saudi Arabia has officially implemented new regulations for non-Saudi real estate ownership to streamline investment through a unified digital platform, with the Saudi Real Estate General Authority confirming that the new system mandates all applications move through the “Saudi Properties” portal.
The government now requires every non-Saudi applicant to submit ownership requests electronically to ensure transparency and speed. Consequently, the Saudi Properties platform handles the entire lifecycle of the application, including eligibility verification, government approvals, and final title registration. This digital shift applies to residents, non-residents, and international corporate entities seeking to enter the Kingdom’s growing property market.
Tailored Application Paths
The authority has established distinct procedures based on the legal status of the applicant. Residents with valid iqamas can apply directly, while non-residents must first coordinate with Saudi embassies to secure a digital identity. Furthermore, foreign companies without a local presence must register with the Ministry of Investment via the “Invest Saudi” portal. These entities must obtain a Unified Number (700) before they can finalize any property transactions through the electronic system.
While the regulation permits ownership across many regions, the government maintains strict controls over major metropolitan areas and holy sites. Specifically, the authority will release a separate regulatory framework for Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah in early 2026.
In Makkah and Madinah, ownership remains strictly limited to Saudi companies and Muslim individuals regardless of their residency status. The authority aims to boost real estate quality by attracting high-caliber international developers to the Kingdom’s diverse landscape.
Official Warnings and Future Updates
The authority’s official spokesperson, Taiseer Al Mofarej, provided clarity on the upcoming timeline for specific investment zones. He stated, “specific sites and geographic zones eligible for non-Saudi ownership would be announced during the first quarter of the year as part of a forthcoming ‘Geographical Areas for Ownership Document’.”
Finally, Al Mofarej cautioned the public against relying on unverified rumors regarding current projects. He noted that no residential or commercial projects have received official approval for non-Saudi ownership yet, so investors should follow only official government channels.
