Buying Property in Saudi Arabia as a Foreigner: 2026 Rules

Buying Property in Saudi Arabia as a Foreigner_ What You Need to Know

Saudi Arabia’s real estate market is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its modern history. Driven by Vision 2030, TOP real estate developers, large-scale urban development, and government-backed mega projects, the Kingdom has rapidly evolved into one of the most closely watched property markets in the region.

A major turning point came when Saudi Arabia formally opened real estate ownership to foreign buyers under a structured regulatory framework. For the first time, non-Saudis — whether residents, non-residents, individuals, or companies — gained a clear legal pathway to acquire property within designated zones of the Kingdom.

Naturally, this shift has raised practical questions. Can foreigners really buy property? Which cities are eligible? Do you need a Saudi bank account? Is residency required? What happens in Makkah and Madinah?

This guide brings together the official rules, procedures, definitions and restrictions in one clear, structured overview — so that foreign investors and buyers understand not just whether they can purchase property in Saudi Arabia, but exactly how the process works.

Table of Contents

Why Saudi Arabia Is Opening Its Real Estate Market to Foreigners

Saudi Arabia’s decision to formalize foreign ownership of real estate is not случайный шаг. It is part of a broader structural transformation tied to Vision 2030. The Kingdom is actively diversifying away from oil dependency, strengthening non-oil GDP and attracting long-term foreign capital into strategic sectors — real estate being one of them.

Opening the property market serves several interconnected goals. First, it stimulates foreign direct investment and brings institutional money into residential, hospitality and mixed-use developments. Second, it increases liquidity and transparency in the sector by moving ownership into a fully regulated digital framework. Third, it supports the growth of major urban projects across Riyadh, Jeddah and coastal destinations by expanding the buyer base beyond domestic demand.

Importantly, the reform is structured, not liberalized without control. Geographic scopes, registry requirements and digital identity systems demonstrate that Saudi Arabia is opening the market — but under clearly defined regulatory oversight.

Types of Real Estate Available in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s residential property market has expanded significantly in recent years, especially in Riyadh, Jeddah and master-planned communities across the Kingdom. For foreign buyers, the available property types depend on geographic scope regulations, but within permitted zones the range of options is broad — from high-rise urban apartments to standalone villas and resort-style residences.

Below is a structured overview of the main property types typically available in the Saudi market.

Property Type	Description	Common Location Format	Typical Use
Apartment Units	Individual residential units within low-rise or high-rise buildings	Urban districts, residential towers	Primary residence or rental investment
Penthouses	Top-floor units with larger layouts and private terraces	Premium city towers in Riyadh & Jeddah	High-end residential living
Villas (Standalone)	Detached houses with private land and parking	Gated communities, suburban districts	Family residence
Townhouses	Multi-level homes sharing walls with adjacent units	Master-planned communities	Mid-to-high income residential
Duplex Units	Two-level residential units within a building	Mixed residential developments	Primary or secondary residence
Gated Community Homes	Villas or townhouses within secured compounds	Large master developments	Long-term residential occupancy
Off-Plan Units	Properties purchased during development phase	Mega-projects and new communities	Investment or future residence
Mixed-Use Residential Units	Apartments integrated within retail or hospitality components	Urban mixed-use complexes	Residential + lifestyle access
Serviced Residences	Residential units with hotel-style services	Branded developments	Investment / flexible living

The final eligibility for ownership is governed by the Geographic Scope Document and applicable regulations, meaning availability depends on approved zones rather than the property type alone.

What a Foreigner Needs to Know Before Buying Property in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s property market is expanding at an unprecedented pace. Major urban projects, regulatory reform and Vision 2030 have transformed the Kingdom into one of the most closely watched real estate markets in the region. The decisive shift came when the government introduced a formal legal framework allowing foreign ownership within defined zones — a move that reshaped how international buyers engage with the market.

We’ve reviewed the official framework, translated and structured the relevant regulatory guidance, and consolidated the most important provisions into one clear, practical reference. This article answers the questions foreign buyers are actually asking — and explains how the process works in reality, not in theory.

Ownership Procedures

Q: When can a non-Saudi (individual or company) start the property transfer, and how is the transfer completed?
A: A transfer can be completed after all required requirements are fulfilled and the approved ownership journey is completed through the Saudi Properties portal. It can also be completed by visiting one of the Real Estate Registry branches. For details, visit: https://rer.sa/

Q: Can a non-Saudi invest in a property they own, whether the investor is inside or outside Saudi Arabia? What is the procedure?
A: Yes. A non-Saudi (individual or company), whether inside the Kingdom or outside it, may invest in the property they own in accordance with the regulations and legislation issued by the Ministry of Investment.

Q: Can ownership be completed using a passport, or is a Digital Identity required?
A: Individuals outside Saudi Arabia can complete ownership by issuing a Digital Identity. The issuance mechanism is explained on the Saudi Properties portal under the “How to Get Started” page: choose the appropriate category, then select “Non-Resident,” and the Digital Identity steps will appear immediately. Residents inside Saudi Arabia can complete ownership using their residency (Iqama) number.

Definitions and Concepts

Q: What is the Real Estate Registry, and how do I apply for in-kind (title) registration of a property?
A: It is the official system for registering real estate ownership in Saudi Arabia. For application details, visit the Real Estate Registry website: https://rer.sa/

Q: Can a visitor on a visit visa own property in Saudi Arabia?
A: This requires lawful residency status in the Kingdom, or issuing a Digital Identity for non-residents.
Note: The requirements for enforcing the system’s provisions on a non-Saudi non-resident are determined in the Executive Regulations of the Non-Saudi Real Estate Ownership Law. Therefore, this question cannot be answered until the Executive Regulations are issued.

Q: What are the procedures for issuing a Digital Identity for an individual or a company?
A: By visiting the Saudi Properties portal and reviewing the ownership journey for individuals outside the Kingdom from the relevant page.

Q: What does “Nafath” mean?
A: A service that enables individuals to access government and private services through a single, secure and trusted unified access point.

Q: What does “Absher” mean?
A: Absher is the Ministry of Interior’s digital platform. It aims to provide the Ministry’s services digitally and in an integrated way for citizens, residents and visitors, using technical enablers and modern technologies to deliver a distinguished user experience through automated services with high reliability, security and efficiency.

Q: How do I obtain an off-plan sales license?
A: An off-plan sales license is issued by the Real Estate General Authority in accordance with the Off-Plan Sale and Lease of Real Estate Projects Law. For more information, contact the unified number: +966 920017183.

Q: What is the Real Estate Disposition Tax?
A: A tax imposed under the Real Estate Disposition Tax Law administered by Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA). Details: https://zatca.gov.sa/ar/Pages/default.aspx

Q: How much are real estate brokerage fees?
A: Fees vary depending on the service. You can review service fees on the Real Estate General Authority website under “Real Estate Programs and Services” and the Real Estate Brokerage Services Guide. For more information, contact: +966 920017183.

Q: What is the updated system for non-Saudi ownership of real estate?
A: The updated Non-Saudi Real Estate Ownership System is one of the regulatory legislations governing non-Saudi ownership of real estate in Saudi Arabia—covering individuals, companies and entities—under specific controls and standards. These ensure that allowing ownership aligns with the national interest and the Kingdom’s economic and regulatory directions, and takes into account Saudi Arabia’s religious, cultural and social particularities.

Q: What are the objectives of the updated system?
A: Attract foreign direct investment into the Saudi real estate market; strengthen the real estate sector’s contribution to GDP; attract global talents and skills; increase the contribution of non-oil sectors to the national economy; develop the economy and diversify income sources sustainably; improve the quality of urban and built-environment life.

Q: Does the updated system cancel the previous system for non-Saudi ownership and investment in real estate?
A: Yes. Once the updated system comes into force, it replaces the previous system in accordance with Article 14, which states that this system replaces the Non-Saudi Ownership and Investment in Real Estate System and repeals any provisions that conflict with it.

Q: How can I access reliable information about the system and its executive regulations?
A: Official and reliable information can be obtained through the Saudi Properties portal, the Real Estate General Authority website, or by following its official accounts.

Regulatory Vision

Q: What is meant by “geographic scopes”?
A: It is the specified area within the territory of Saudi Arabia in which a non-Saudi may own real estate or acquire other in-rem rights over it. It includes the locations and projects explicitly stated in the Geographic Scopes Document as a scope designated for non-Saudi ownership.

Q: What is the Saudi Properties portal, and what does it include?
A: A government electronic platform aimed at implementing the non-Saudi real estate ownership system. It includes services for residents inside the Kingdom and non-residents, as well as non-Saudi companies and entities, under defined legal controls and procedures.

Q: If the non-Saudi ownership system overlaps with other applicable systems (such as Premium Residency or GCC citizens’ ownership rules), which system takes priority?
A: Applying this system does not prejudice the provisions of the Premium Residency System or the regulation governing GCC citizens’ ownership of real estate in GCC member states for housing and investment purposes, or any other applicable systems that grant a non-Saudi better rights regarding owning real estate and acquiring other in-rem rights.

Q: If a property was owned before the updated system comes into force, do the updated controls apply to it?
A: The entry into force of the updated system does not affect any rights acquired before it became effective.

Q: What support and inquiry channels are available for the Saudi Properties portal?
A: Through the Saudi Properties portal, social media accounts, or by calling the unified number from inside and outside the Kingdom: +966 920017183.

Conditions and Restrictions

Q: Can an individual abroad buy property through an agent or intermediary in their home country without contracting with a licensed broker in Saudi Arabia?
A: To complete the purchase of a property in Saudi Arabia, you must deal with a licensed real estate broker inside the Kingdom in accordance with the approved regulations. The list of licensed brokers can be checked here:
https://eservicesredp.rega.gov.sa/e-services/inquiry-about-the-real-estate-broker/form

Q: How can I verify whether a specific property is eligible for foreign ownership?
A: You can verify eligibility immediately through the services available on the Saudi Properties portal: https://saudiproperties.rega.gov.sa/

Q: Does property ownership change if the owner permanently leaves Saudi Arabia?
A: No. Ownership is not affected whether the owner is a resident or a non-resident.

Q: Does owning property exempt me from visa requirements?
A: No. Owning property does not grant an exemption from visa requirements. Visas are subject to the rules applied by the competent authorities.

Q: Can a visa be refused even if I own property in Saudi Arabia?
A: Visa refusal is governed by the competent authorities’ criteria and procedures and is not linked to property ownership itself.

Q: Do I need to be physically present in Saudi Arabia to complete ownership procedures?
A: No. Personal attendance is not required as long as the procedures are completed electronically through the approved channels.

Q: Is it allowed to mortgage a property owned by a non-Saudi?
A: Yes. Mortgaging is permitted in accordance with the relevant regulations and controls.

Q: At what stage of real estate development can a non-Saudi own property?
A: A non-Saudi can own property at all stages of real estate development, while observing the provisions of the non-Saudi real estate ownership system.

Q: What penalties apply to violators?
A: If misleading information is submitted: a fine of up to 5% of the property’s value, capped at SAR 10 million, and the property is sold. A fine of up to 5% of the property’s value, capped at SAR 10 million.

Geographic Scopes and Limits

Q: Is ownership affected if the geographic scope is amended?
A: No. Ownership is not affected if the geographic scope is amended; ownership remains valid.

Q: What types of properties are available for non-Saudi ownership?
A: All types of properties that are permitted to be owned, in accordance with what is determined by the Geographic Scopes Document.

Q: When will the Geographic Scopes Document for non-Saudi ownership be available?
A: During the first quarter of 2026.

Ownership Controls

Q: Can an individual (resident/non-resident) or a company (Saudi/non-Saudi) own one or more properties—land or a residential unit—inside or outside the geographic scope?
A: To review ownership eligibility for a resident/non-resident individual or a Saudi/non-Saudi company, refer to the applicable controls via the following link: Ownership Matrix.

Q: Is a bank account inside Saudi Arabia required?
A: Yes. Opening an account with an approved bank is required, based on the approved list, which can be viewed through the Saudi Properties portal.

Q: Can a non-Saudi property owner outside the Kingdom issue a power of attorney authorizing someone to invest the property inside the Kingdom?
A: Yes. A lawful power of attorney can be issued from outside the Kingdom through the approved authorities, enabling the agent to manage or invest the property inside Saudi Arabia in accordance with relevant rules and controls.

Q: Can a non-Saudi change the purpose of use of the property after purchase?
A: Changing the purpose of use is subject to the relevant regulations and instructions.

Q: If a non-Saudi property owner passes away, can the property be transferred to heirs?
A: The transfer of in-rem rights to heirs is subject to the applicable regulations and instructions, including the Personal Status Law and others.

Q: Can a non-Saudi transfer ownership to a person who does not meet ownership requirements, such as a gift?
A: No. It is not permitted to grant the property as a gift to a person who does not meet the legal ownership requirements, in accordance with relevant rules and controls.

Q: Can ownership be registered jointly between two or more people (foreigner/foreigner, foreigner/Saudi)?
A: Yes. Joint ownership is permitted under the approved regulations and controls, with the ownership shares of each party specified.

Q: Do ownership procedures in Makkah and Madinah differ from other regions?
A: All ownership procedures are conducted in accordance with the Non-Saudi Ownership System, its Executive Regulations, and the Geographic Scopes Document.

Q: Is a Saudi phone number a basic requirement for residents and non-residents?
A: Yes, so that the person can log into official platforms such as Nafath and Absher.

Q: What forms of ownership are available?
A: The Geographic Scopes Document determines the types of in-rem rights that may be acquired, including:

Ownership right: full ownership of the property
Other in-rem rights such as usufruct and easement, and others

Closing note

Saudi Arabia’s foreign ownership framework is designed to be operational, not theoretical: licensed brokerage, verified identities, formal registry systems and geographic scope controls are meant to bring transactions onto a single compliant track.

For buyers, the practical implication is simple—plan early for digital access (Digital Identity or Iqama), banking requirements, and eligibility checks through official channels, and treat the Geographic Scopes Document as the definitive reference for what can be owned and where.

Buying Property in Saudi Arabia as a Foreigner: What You Need to Know

Why Saudi Arabia Is Opening Its Real Estate Market to Foreigners

Types of Real Estate Available in Saudi Arabia