Guide to Property Ownership for Non-Saudis in Saudi Arabia
Everything You Need to Know About Property Ownership for Non-Saudis
Thanks to the recent facilitation measures introduced by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, real estate ownership for non-Saudis has become possible under specific conditions. This development enhances investment opportunities in a rapidly growing and evolving real estate market. In this article, we explore the requirements and procedures for non-Saudis to own property in Saudi Arabia, along with the key benefits of such ownership.
Note:
Recent updates have been introduced to the regulations governing non-Saudi property ownership. To learn more about the latest official changes and updated details, you can read the most recent article here:
Non-Saudi Property Ownership Regulations: 7 New Changes
What Are the Advantages of Property Ownership for Non-Saudis in Saudi Arabia?
Owning property as a non-Saudi comes with numerous benefits, making the Saudi real estate market a lucrative and appealing investment destination.
- Investing in a Growing Market
Saudi Arabia’s real estate market has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years. According to the Saudi Capital Market Authority, the market value of real estate transactions increased by 21% in 2023 compared to the previous year, reaching approximately SAR 300 billion. These figures highlight the market’s appeal to both foreign and local investors. Explore a detailed market analysis in AqarApp’s Mid-Year 2024 Data Report. - Government Incentives
The Saudi government has introduced numerous incentives to encourage property ownership by non-Saudis, attracting more foreign investors. The World Bank’s *Ease of Doing Business Index* reflects Saudi Arabia’s progress, showing a 30-place advancement since 2019 due to ongoing reforms supporting investment environments. - Variety of Property Options
Investors can explore diverse opportunities across residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Commercial properties account for 15% of the total real estate market in Saudi Arabia, offering investors tailored options to meet their financial goals. - Simplified Procedures Through Digital Platforms
Platforms like Absher enable non-Saudis to apply for property ownership electronically, saving time and ensuring quick, hassle-free processing.
Requirements for Non-Saudis to Own Property in Saudi Arabia
The requirements vary depending on whether the individual is a resident of Saudi Arabia or an external foreign investor. Below are the general conditions:
- Residency Status
Non-Saudis must have a valid residency permit (Iqama) to own property in Saudi Arabia. Learn more about the Premium Residency Program for property owners. - Purpose of Ownership
The property must be used for personal residence or a specific commercial investment. However, ownership in sensitive areas, such as military zones, is prohibited. - Government Permits
Certain properties, particularly land and commercial real estate, require government permits based on the type of property and ownership purpose. - Ministerial Approval
In some cases, approval from the Ministry of Interior or Ministry of Investment is required, especially for commercial or investment purposes.
Important update:
The regulations governing non-Saudi property ownership have recently been updated to expand investment opportunities and enhance the efficiency of the real estate market. For a detailed overview of the latest changes, you can refer to this updated article:
Non-Saudi Property Ownership Regulations: 7 New Changes
Procedures for Non-Saudis to Own Property in Saudi Arabia
The process for non-Saudis to own property involves several steps to ensure compliance with legal requirements:
- Consult an Authorized Entity
It is recommended to work with a licensed real estate broker via AQAR App or a legal office to ensure compliance with regulations. - Apply for Ownership Permit
Submit a formal application to the Ministry of Investment, detailing personal information and property type. - Obtain Official Approval
Authorities review the application, and upon meeting all conditions, they issue an official ownership permit. - Register the Property
Following approval, the property must be registered with the Ministry of Justice to confirm ownership.
Digital Steps via Absher Platform
Residents can submit ownership applications using their Absher accounts by following these steps:
- Log in to Absher: Create an account and select the “Property Ownership for Residents” service.
- Submit Ownership Request: Fill out the required details, including personal and property information.
- Attach Required Documents: Provide copies of your residency permit, current lease contract, and other supporting documents to justify ownership.
- Approval and Documentation: After reviewing the application, authorities issue the ownership permit, and the property is documented accordingly.
Updated Geographical Zones and Regulations for Non-Saudi Real Estate Ownership (Update: June 23, 2026)
The Saudi Cabinet, in its session held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, in Jeddah under the chairmanship of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, approved the Executive Regulations of the System for Non-Saudi Ownership of Real Estate. This establishes a clear and specific geographical map that opens wide investment horizons for foreign investors and residents in the Kingdom’s most prominent cities and major developmental projects.
The updated real estate map includes broad strategic zones in major cities and mega development projects, distributed as follows:
First: Map of Geographical Zones and Projects Available for Ownership
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Riyadh Region, including:
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Al-Qiddiya Project
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New Murabba Project
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Sports Boulevard and Arts District
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Diriyah Gate (Diriyah Project)
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Sedra Suburb
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King Salman Park
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King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)
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King Salman International Airport
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Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) sites
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Madinah Region:
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Rua Al Madinah Project
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Al-Ghurrah Project
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Al-Mahwa Area
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Dar Al-Hijrah Project
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Downtown Madinah
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Diyar Al-Maqar Project
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Madinah Development Zones (1 and 2)
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Knowledge Economic City (KEC)
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Mishraf Project
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Jeddah Governorate:
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Jeddah Central Project
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55 designated development zones across the governorate
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Makkah Region:
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Makkah Towers Project
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Ajyad Tower
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Jabal Omar Project
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Al-Manar Project
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Thakher Makkah Project
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Tilal Village Project
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Masar Destination
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Sumou Suburb
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King Salman Gate
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Makkah Development Zones (1 and 2)
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Eastern Province:
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Dammam City
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Khobar City
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Qatif Governorate
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Ras Tanura City
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Second: Governing Rules and Regulations for Non-Saudi Ownership
In addition to specifying cities and projects, the updated executive regulations establish clear and encouraging rules that grant foreign investors unprecedented flexibility, as well as legal and economic security, according to the following parameters:
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Available Property Types: Non-Saudi investors are permitted to own all types of real estate without exception within the legally designated zones and cities.
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Prescribed Ownership Percentage: The regulation allows for a full and independent ownership percentage for the beneficiary, reaching up to 100%.
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Permitted Rights in Rem: Acquisition and utilization of all types of rights in rem on the property are permitted, with the exception of (Credit Priority), which has been excluded from the regulations.
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Maximum Duration of Usufruct Right: The maximum validity of the usufruct right for real estate for non-Saudis has been extended and set to reach up to 99 years maximum.
Conclusion
Property ownership for non-Saudis in Saudi Arabia offers a promising investment opportunity, thanks to new regulations and flexible policies that support investors. With the rising demand from foreign investors, Saudi Arabia continues to set an inspiring model for attracting investments and fostering real estate sector growth in line with the Vision 2030 economic goals.