Saudi Arabia has opened property ownership applications for foreigners through the official Saudi Properties portal.
After Cabinet approval, foreign individuals, expats, investors, and companies can now apply to buy property in approved areas of the Kingdom. The process is regulated by the Real Estate General Authority (REGA).
This step supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by attracting foreign investment, strengthening the real estate market, and making the Kingdom a stronger place to live, work, and invest.
Can foreigners buy property in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, foreigners can now apply to buy property in Saudi Arabia through the Saudi Properties portal.
Non-Saudi individuals, companies, and entities may own property only in approved areas.
How the Application Process Works
1. Non-Saudi Residents Inside Saudi Arabia
Non-Saudi residents living in the Kingdom can apply directly through the Saudi Properties portal using their Iqama or residency number. The platform checks eligibility and allows the applicant to complete the ownership process online.
This is important for people asking, “Can expats buy property in Saudi Arabia?” Yes, expats with legal residency can apply, but they must follow the official process and buy only within approved locations.
2. Foreigners Living Outside Saudi Arabia
Foreigners who are not currently living in Saudi Arabia must first obtain a digital identity card through a Saudi mission abroad. After receiving the digital identity, they can continue the application through the Saudi Properties portal.
This gives overseas investors a proper route to apply without needing to be physically present in the Kingdom at the beginning of the process.
3. Foreign Companies Without a Current Saudi Presence
Foreign companies that do not yet operate in Saudi Arabia can also apply to own property. Before applying, the company must register through the Invest Saudi platform and obtain a Unified Number 700. After that, the property ownership process can be completed online.
This helps international businesses plan offices, warehouses, regional headquarters, hospitality projects, or future expansion in Saudi Arabia.
Can a Foreigner Buy a House in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, foreigners can buy a house in Saudi Arabia if the property is in an approved area and the buyer meets the required conditions.
The application must be submitted through the Saudi Properties portal. Approval depends on the buyer’s status, property location, and compliance with official rules.
Where Can Foreigners Buy Property in Saudi Arabia?
Makkah
Approved areas include Abraj Makkah, Jabal Omar, Thakher Makkah, Masar, King Salman Gate, and Makkah Zones 1 and 2. Ownership in Makkah is restricted to Saudi companies and Muslim individuals.
Madinah
Approved areas include Downtown Madinah, Rua Al Madinah, Knowledge Economic City, Diyar Al Maqar, and Madinah Zones 1 and 2. Like Makkah, ownership in Madinah is subject to religious and legal restrictions.
Riyadh
Approved areas include Qiddiya, New Murabba, Diriyah Gate, King Salman Park, KAFD, and King Salman International Airport. These areas are major business, lifestyle, and investment zones.
Jeddah
Approved areas include Central Jeddah and Development Areas 1 to 55 across Jeddah Governorate. Jeddah is a strong choice for coastal living, business, hospitality, and investment.
Major Projects and Investment Destinations
Foreign ownership is also expected across major development destinations and giga-project areas, including The Red Sea, Diriyah, AlUla, NEOM, and other approved investment zones. These locations are strongly connected to tourism, hospitality, lifestyle, luxury housing, and global investment opportunities.
Update: Executive Regulations Bring More Clarity
Following the announcement allowing foreigners to own property in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom has now issued the Executive Regulations, providing practical guidance on how the new framework will operate.
Requirements for Foreign Individuals
Before purchasing property, non-resident foreign buyers will generally need to obtain a Ministry of Interior-approved digital identity, open a Saudi bank account, and register a Saudi mobile number linked to their digital identity. These requirements are intended to strengthen identity verification and ensure secure property transactions.
What Foreign Companies Should Know
The regulations also clarify the process for foreign companies. Businesses must register with the Ministry of Investment, disclose their beneficial ownership, appoint an authorised representative with an approved Saudi identity, and maintain a Saudi bank account before acquiring property in Saudi Arabia.
Additional Clarifications
The Executive Regulations also:
- Clarify residential property ownership rules for foreign families.
- Define how Saudi companies with foreign shareholders can own property for business operations and employee accommodation, subject to the applicable conditions.
- Provide greater clarity on the implementation of the new foreign ownership framework.
How Helpline Group Can Help
Helpline Group can assist foreign investors, expats, and companies with Saudi market entry support, investment registration guidance, company formation, documentation, attestation, and regulatory coordination.
Whether you are planning to purchase property, start a company, open a branch, or expand your business in Saudi Arabia, our team, with 25+ years of expertise, 10+ International branches, and 100+ countries served, can guide you through the right steps and help you move forward with confidence.
