Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment has introduced new rules for non-resident foreign companies seeking to own property in the Kingdom without engaging in economic activities.
In its Investor Guide 2026, the Ministry outlined its updated regulations regarding property ownership for foreign firms in a section titled “Registration of Non-Saudi Companies for Property Ownership Purposes.”
Under the new updates, foreign companies must submit a copy of their commercial register, alongside articles of incorporation, both translated by an accredited translation office and authenticated through the Saudi embassy.
They also have to provide an authorization document appointing the company’s representative to act on their behalf, which must also be translated by an accredited translation office and authenticated through the Saudi Embassy.
Furthermore, companies are required to appoint a natural person as an authorized representative through a certified power of attorney to complete registration procedures.
Additionally, the Investor Guide 2026 noted that companies without an identification document recognized under Saudi regulations must obtain a digital identity through Saudi diplomatic missions abroad before proceeding with the registration process.
For annual registration renewals, companies must maintain the exact same ownership structure and management registered with the Ministry of Investment. The service can be accessed immediately through the Ministry’s online portal.
The Investor Guide’s new section underscores Saudi Arabia’s efforts to streamline foreign property investment and match procedures with the new Investment Law.
It sets out registration requirements, the appointment of authorized representatives, obligations related to property management and disposal, procedures for opening bank accounts and updating company and representative information with relevant authorities.
According to the Ministry, this addition marks one of the most significant updates in the latest edition of the Investor Guide, addressing property ownership by foreign companies in detail.
