The General Authority for Real Estate in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced today the effective implementation of the system for non-Saudi ownership of real estate, and the commencement of its provisions as a key component of the modern real estate legislation regulating the market. This decision follows previously announced dates, with the system becoming operational today, 3 Sha'ban 1447 AH, corresponding to January 22, 2026.
The context of economic transformation and Vision 2030
This historic decision culminates a series of legislative and economic reforms undertaken by the Kingdom under the umbrella of “Saudi Vision 2030,” which aims to diversify income sources and reduce dependence on oil. Opening the real estate market to non-Saudis is a strategic step to attract foreign capital and enhance the Kingdom’s position as a global investment destination. Following the launch of premium residency programs and the streamlining of investment procedures, the new property ownership system represents a crucial link in enabling international residents and investors to settle and contribute to the local economic cycle.
Application mechanisms via the "Saudi Real Estate" portal
The authority clarified that property ownership applications are received exclusively through the official digital portal, “Saudi Real Estate.” The portal is designed to serve three main categories: residents within the Kingdom, non-resident individuals, and foreign companies and entities. The user journey is characterized by its flexibility and clarity; residents can use their residency number for instant verification and completion of procedures, while non-residents begin their process through Saudi embassies and consulates abroad to obtain their digital identity.
Corporate procedures and geographic scope
For non-Saudi companies and entities that do not have a physical presence within the Kingdom, they must first register with the Ministry of Investment through the “Invest in Saudi Arabia” platform to obtain the unified number (700). The Authority confirmed that the system allows ownership in various regions of the Kingdom, with special regulations for the major cities (Riyadh and Jeddah) and the holy cities (Mecca and Medina). The detailed geographical scope document will be released during the first quarter of 2026, with the stipulation that ownership in Mecca and Medina will be restricted to Saudi companies and Muslim individuals only.
Expected economic impact
This system is expected to revolutionize the Saudi real estate sector, aiming to elevate project quality by attracting international developers and companies with specialized expertise. It will also stimulate growth in the residential, commercial, industrial, and tourism sectors, creating ample job opportunities for Saudi citizens, sustainably boosting the real estate sector's contribution to non-oil GDP, and enhancing the competitiveness of the Saudi market regionally and internationally.
The authority invited those wishing to benefit from the system to visit the official link: Saudi Real Estate Portal or to contact the unified number (920017183) for inquiries.
