Saudi Arabia has begun implementing regulations allowing non-Saudis to own real estate in the Kingdom, the Saudi Real Estate General Authority (REGA) announced on Thursday.
The authority said applications would be accepted through the Saudi Properties digital platform, which will serve as the portal for all procedures related to non-Saudi property ownership.
The regulation applies to residents inside Saudi Arabia, non-residents, and non-Saudi companies and entities, according to a report by the Saudi Press Agency.
How non-residents can apply to own real estate in Saudi Arabia
The application process differs based on the applicant’s status.
Residents in Saudi Arabia can submit applications through the portal using their iqama number, with eligibility verified and procedures completed online.
Non-residents must begin applications through Saudi missions and embassies abroad, which will issue a digital identity for use on the Saudi Properties platform.
Non-Saudi companies without a presence in the Kingdom must register with the Ministry of Investment through the Invest Saudi platform and obtain a Unified Number (700) before submitting applications.
The authority confirmed that the regulation permits ownership in regions across the Kingdom.
Makkah and Madinah property ownership restricted to Muslims under new Saudi rules
Ownership in Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as in Makkah and Madinah, will follow a framework based on geographic zoning, which is expected to be announced in the first quarter of 2026.
The authority said ownership in Makkah and Madinah would be restricted to Saudi companies and Muslim individuals, whether residing inside or outside the Kingdom.
The Saudi Properties portal is linked to the national real estate title registration platform, allowing applicants to complete procedures, verify compliance, and finalize ownership through the system.
The authority said this integration aims to enhance transparency and protect ownership rights.
Saudi Arabia opens real estate market to non-Saudi residents and investors
The regulation seeks to improve real estate development by attracting developers and companies, while supporting growth across residential, commercial, industrial, and tourism sectors, the authority said.
It is expected to contribute to job creation for Saudi nationals and strengthen the non-oil real estate sector’s contribution to gross domestic product.
