Saudi Arabia to Reveal Zones for Non-Saudi Property Ownership
Riyadh: The General Authority for Real Estate (REGA) will soon release a comprehensive document outlining specific areas where non-Saudis can own property in the Kingdom.
Real EstateProperty OwnershipSaudi ArabiaForeign InvestmentVision 2030Real EstateNov 07, 2025
The document will include detailed maps of ownership zones across Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, and other cities, specifying permitted ownership percentages, property rights, and conditions for acquisition.
Under the updated Real Estate Ownership Law for Non-Saudis, endorsed in July 2025, ownership will be limited to registered properties. Foreign owners must disclose all required data. The system will take effect in January 2026, 180 days after publication in the Official Gazette.
The revised ownership framework introduces several key features:
- A 10 percent total charge, including real estate transaction tax and related fees.
- Fines up to Saudi Riyals 10 million for violations.
- Public auction for properties acquired through false information.
According to Okaz, five groups will be eligible to own property under the new system:
- Non-Saudi individuals
- Foreign companies
- Saudi companies with foreign shareholders
- Non-profit organizations
- Diplomatic missions.
Ownership and usufruct in Makkah and Madinah are limited to:
- Muslims
- Saudi-owned companies, within zones defined by the upcoming geographical document.
These rules operate alongside existing regulations such as the Premium Residency System and the GCC Property Ownership Regulation.
To ensure proper implementation, 13 Saudi government bodies will participate through an advisory committee responsible for:
- Supervising enforcement
- Monitoring compliance
- Submitting regular reports and recommendations.
REGA said the reform is designed to attract foreign investment and strengthen the real estate sector’s contribution to Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy under Vision 2030. The sector currently supports more than 120 industries, creates jobs, and plays a central role in housing expansion and urban development.
Over the past five years, the Kingdom has enacted over 20 real estate laws to promote transparency, protect ownership rights, and enhance investor confidence. REGA emphasised that the new framework will not affect citizens’ access to housing but will ensure a balanced, competitive, and sustainable property market that supports long-term national growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the new property ownership law take effect?
The new property ownership law for non-Saudis will take effect in January 2026, 180 days after publication in the Official Gazette.
Who is eligible to own property under the new law?
Five groups are eligible to own property under the new law: non-Saudi individuals, foreign companies, Saudi companies with foreign shareholders, non-profit organizations, and diplomatic missions.
What are the key features of the new law?
The key features include a 10 percent total charge for real estate transactions, fines up to Saudi Riyals 10 million for violations, and public auctions for properties acquired through false information.
How will the new law affect ownership in Makkah and Madinah?
Ownership and usufruct in Makkah and Madinah are limited to Muslims and Saudi-owned companies, within zones defined by the upcoming geographical document.
What is the purpose of the new property ownership framework?
The new framework is designed to attract foreign investment, strengthen the real estate sector’s contribution to Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy under Vision 2030, and ensure a balanced, competitive, and sustainable property market.
Related News Articles
Residential Housing Demand Surges in Tier II Cities, Sales Up 11% in FY24
Real estate data analytics firm PropEquity reveals that housing sales in top 30 Tier II cities increased by 11% in FY24, driven by lower property prices and growth potential.
Union Budget 2024-25: Real Estate Sector's Expectations for Growth and Stability
Industry leaders highlight the need for enhanced tax incentives, simplified project approvals, and incentives for affordable housing to drive growth and stability in the real estate sector.
Air India's Real Estate Sell-Off Fails to Take Flight
Air India's attempt to sell 56 properties across India has been met with little interest, with less than 10 properties sold so far.
Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand Hears Major Political Rivalry Case
City Police Commissioner and Additional District Magistrate, CV Anand, held a court session to address the longstanding political rivalry between Nampally MLA Mohd. Majid Hussain and MLA contestant Mohd. Feroz Khan.
The Future of Urban Living: Insights into Real Estate Development in India
In major cities like Mumbai, the increasing demand for properties is significantly driving up prices per square foot. Community living is becoming more important as urban areas continue to grow.
Delhi-NCR Office Rent Soars to Rs 340/Sq Ft, Making It 6th Costliest in Asia-Pacific: Report
Delhi-NCR has emerged as the 6th costliest office market in the Asia-Pacific region, with office rent hitting Rs 340 per square foot, according to a recent report by Knight Frank India. The real estate consultant's latest edition of the Asia-Pacific Offic