Saudi Arabia Opens Real Estate Ownership to Non-Saudis

Non-Saudis Can Now Buy Property : A Complete 2026 Guide

Saudi Arabia has implemented a landmark law that officially allows non-Saudi individuals, companies and entities to buy and own real estate within the country. The new property ownership system which begins on 22 January 2026 will enable the country to draw international investment while promoting domestic development and achieving sustainable economic growth.

Introduction: A New Era for the Saudi Property Market

For decades Saudi Arabia maintained stringent restrictions on foreign property ownership. Non-Saudis now have the right to acquire real estate throughout the country according to established legal procedures and digital application methods. The reform supports Saudi Vision 2030 because it helps the country achieve its three main objectives which require economic growth through non-oil sectors, foreign investment and better competitiveness in the international real estate market.

What the New Law Covers

Who Can Own Property:

The updated framework permits Non-Saudi residents & non-residents, Foreign companies & entities and Non-Saudi legal entities to acquire real estate in Saudi Arabia after they fulfill their regulatory obligations and follow official procedures.

Ownership Categories & Eligibility:

The ownership structure requires different eligibility criteria for two groups of individuals who live in the country and those who do not live in the country. The residency ID (iqama) enables residents to complete their application process at their designated location. The online application process begins for non-residents after they obtain a digital ID from Saudi missions or embassies abroad.

Foreign Companies & Entities must first register with the Ministry of Investment via the Invest Saudi framework and obtain a unified number (700) before submitting property ownership documents.

Digital Platform: Saudi Properties Portal

The Saudi Properties portal serves as the official digital system through which non-Saudi ownership applications must be submitted. Through the platform:

• The application process becomes more efficient through the system

• The system makes sure that all legal requirements receive fulfillment.

• The system connects directly to The National Real Estate Registry

• The system enhances transparency and protects rights for foreign buyers.

The new digital system solves problems that existed with previous systems which depended on manual work or required special authorization for operating systems. It enables better property ownership throughout the whole world.

Geographic Rules & Regional Restrictions

• Ownership in Major Cities: According to regional regulations which follow the upcoming Geographic Zones Document Saudi non-citizens can acquire property rights in most major Saudi cities which include Riyadh and Jeddah.

• Makkah & Madinah Restrictions: The holy cities of Makkah and Madinah maintain property ownership restrictions which apply exclusively to Saudi companies and Muslim individuals who reside inside or outside the country. The established boundaries maintain the religious and cultural identity of these holy cities.

Procedure to Apply (Step-by-Step)

• Digital ID & Registration: Non-residents must secure a digital identity via Saudi representations and the relevant digital platforms before using the portal.

• Submit Online Applications: The Saudi Properties portal enables applicants to submit their ownership requests and required documents which they need to maintain their specific category status of individual or entity.

• Verification & Compliance: The system verifies eligibility through automatic checks for residents while non-residents obtain approval through backend checks.

Economic & Sectoral Impact

This law is designed to:

• Attract international developers and specialized real estate companies

• The legislation stimulates growth for residential sectors and commercial areas and industrial operations and tourism activities.

• The law will generate new job openings for Saudi citizens.

• The real estate industry will boost its economic impact to non-oil GDP through its increased economic activities.

Initial market activities show strong investor confidence in large-scale tourism and coastal development projects according to industry experts who evaluate the market after the law became effective.

Key Considerations & Compliance

• Foreign owners must ensure registered property rights are correctly recorded with authorities.

• Defined geographic zones will shape where non-Saudi ownership is permitted and what rights are granted.

• The regulators maintain their authority to control foreign investments while ensuring domestic market stability and affordable housing for residents.

Conclusion

The new real estate ownership law in Saudi Arabia represents one of the most important property ownership changes that has ever occurred in the country. The policy enables non-Saudi buyers to access the market while it maintains restrictions on sensitive religious areas which helps Saudi Arabia compete as an international investment destination while preserving its cultural heritage.