The Saudi Arabian government will officially enforce new regulations that allow foreigners to own their own property starting January 22.
This regulatory system is now part of the country's real estate framework and all related provisions can be fully implemented.
Property ownership applications for non-Saudi citizens can be made through the official digital platform, Saudi Arabia Real Estate.
This facility is open to residents and non-citizens, including foreign companies and entities, provided that they comply with strict legal procedures.
Foreigners residing in Saudi Arabia can apply directly using their residence permits. The system will automatically verify legal requirements and complete the process electronically.
Meanwhile, non-resident citizens must apply at a Saudi embassy or consulate abroad to obtain a digital identification number before completing the process online.
Foreign companies without an official presence in Saudi Arabia must register with the Ministry of Investment through the 'Invest Saudi' platform to obtain a unified registration number '700' first before proceeding with the property ownership transaction digitally.
Property ownership is now permitted in major cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah, but remains restricted in Makkah and Madinah.
Only Saudi companies and Muslim individuals are allowed to own property in the two holy sites, subject to the Geographic Zone regulations that will be fully announced by the first quarter of 2026.
This property portal acts as a single entry point for all procedures, thus ensuring compliance and integration with the national property registry. This move is expected to increase transparency and protect the rights of owners.
The Saudi government hopes that this initiative will attract international developers and specialized companies, stimulate growth in the residential, commercial, industrial and tourism sectors, in addition to increasing employment opportunities for local citizens.
However, the question arises, to what extent does this move truly open the Saudi real estate market to foreign investors or is it just a strategy to attract capital while maintaining tight control in strategic areas?
The restrictions that still exist in Makkah and Madinah clearly show that the government is still cautious in opening the door fully to foreigners, maintaining geopolitical and religious factors as the main barriers.
