Starting in January 2026, a door that was once closed will finally open: foreign property ownership will be officially allowed in Saudi Arabia. Under the Kingdom’s new property law, foreigners will now have the right to own property in designated areas across the country. It’s a landmark shift, part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan to create a more diverse and global economy. With this Saudi real estate law, the Kingdom is not only welcoming foreign investment—it’s rewriting the rules of access and ownership.
This is more than a policy change. It’s a new chapter for anyone who’s ever asked, “Can non-Saudis own property in Saudi Arabia?”—and now, the answer is yes. With this announcement, global investors, expats, and overseas developers can now access opportunities that were once out of reach. But what exactly is changing-and what should you prepare for now? Let’s break it down.
Why This Is a Big Deal?
This shift is more than a policy update-it’s a signal. It tells the world that Saudi Arabia is serious about:
- Attracting global investment
- Diversifying its economy beyond oil
- Creating a more open and modern real estate market
The Kingdom has already seen surging demand in its urban property markets, with prices up 6% in Riyadh and 10–12% in Jeddah and Dammam, even before the foreign ownership rules are in effect. The new real estate law is set to drive this momentum even further.
Key Details of the New Property Law
- Effective Date: January 2026
- Eligible Areas: Specific zones in major cities, such as Riyadh and Jeddah, and potentially others, will be open to foreign buyers.
- Restricted Areas: Mecca and Medina will remain subject to special regulations.
- Regulatory Body: The Real Estate General Authority (REGA) will define the complete list of allowed zones and issue executive regulations.
- Public Consultation: All regulations will be published on the Istitlaa platform within 180 days of the law’s gazette date.
- Transaction Tax: A clear, fixed 5% easy to plan for and in line with global property markets.
This framework ensures that foreign property ownership is well-regulated while aligning with national interests.
Strategic Goals Behind the New Property Law
The decision to allow foreigners to buy property isn’t random—it’s strategic. This move supports:
- The expansion of housing in Saudi Arabia and commercial real estate supply
- Injection of foreign capital into real estate, construction, and infrastructure
- Strengthening of the mortgage and banking sector
- Elevation of Saudi cities as globally recognised investment destinations
This new law also supports large projects, such as NEOM, Soudah Peaks, and Roshn. These are key parts of Vision 2030, and by allowing more foreign investors in, Saudi Arabia is giving them a better chance to grow, attract talent, and bring in new ideas from around the world.
What Should Investors Do Now?
Though January 2026 may seem far off, serious investors are already preparing.
- Monitor official platforms – Keep an eye on official sources, such as the REGA website and the Istitlaa platform. That’s where all the updates are.
- Learn the local rules: Collaborate with trusted local consultants like us to understand property licensing, fees, and all the necessary steps to complete your purchase correctly.
- Build relationships with local brokers – Focus on major zones, such as Riyadh and Jeddah, which are likely to see the most foreign demand.
- Get legal guidance – If you’re unfamiliar with Saudi real estate law, consult a trusted consultant, such as Helpline Group, to avoid compliance risks.
Note: Much of the official documentation may initially be in Arabic; therefore, working with bilingual partners, such as Helpline Group, is recommended.
Make It Happen with Helpline Group
At first glance, the idea of foreign property ownership in Saudi Arabia sounds exciting—but the fine print can feel overwhelming. Legal paperwork, language barriers, licensing rules, restricted zones… It’s a lot to take in, especially if you’re entering the Saudi market for the first time.
That’s where Helpline Group makes a difference. With over 25 years of experience in Saudi regulatory processes, Helpline Group helps individuals and companies navigate every step of the new real estate system—from understanding ownership eligibility to preparing documentation and final registration with PRO support.
We’re not just here to process forms—we’re here to guide you through it all, answer your questions, and make sure nothing gets lost in translation. If you’re planning to take advantage of this new property law in 2026, now is the perfect time to start building your strategy—with the right team by your side. Let Helpline Group be your trusted bridge to property ownership in Saudi Arabia.
