Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — The General Real Estate Authority has released draft executive regulations for non-Saudi real estate ownership. Public comments are open via the “Istitlaa” platform from July 28 to August 28, 2025. Spanning 15 articles, the draft clarifies the legal structure for foreign ownership under Saudi Arabia’s new real estate law.
According to the proposal, non-Saudis—whether residents or not—must hold a valid Saudi-issued identity to own property or participate in real estate deals. Moreover, all payments must be processed through official electronic channels in the Kingdom.
Digital Identity and Transaction Requirements
A centralized electronic platform will manage applications from non-Saudis for property ownership or acquisition of real rights. The portal will connect to the national real estate registry and require login through the National Single Sign-On system.
Non-resident foreigners must also obtain a digital ID through the Ministry of Interior’s Absher platform, open a local bank account, and register a Saudi phone number in their name. Identity must be verified during each transaction.
Under Article 3, dependents—such as spouses, parents, and children—are counted under one ownership unit unless they are no longer legally dependent, as verified by Saudi authorities.
Additionally, the law restricts foreign ownership to specific geographic zones approved by the Council of Ministers. These zones are selected based on recommendations from the General Real Estate Authority and the Council of Economic and Development Affairs. The draft will define which rights are permitted, which property types are included, and where ownership is allowed.
This move is part of a broader effort to increase market transparency while safeguarding national priorities. It shows Saudi Arabia’s intent to welcome investment without compromising control over critical assets.
THE SAUDI STANDARD’S VIEW: Real Estate Access for Non-Saudis Signals Maturity and Market Readiness
The draft executive regulations on non-Saudi real estate ownership mark a turning point for Saudi Arabia’s property sector. They strike a balance between investment access and strong safeguards, creating a reliable, digitally integrated system for foreign ownership.
Requiring digital identity, local bank accounts, and phone registration ensures financial transparency and protects national interests. At the same time, the law gives qualified non-Saudis clear entry into the real estate market.
Importantly, the draft ties ownership eligibility to geographic limits, property types, and legal conditions. This structure ensures alignment with urban planning and demographic objectives outlined in Vision 2030.
The inclusion of dependents and rules for transaction oversight shows a practical approach to managing long-term residency, population trends, and public safety.
Additionally, the digital platform, linked to the national real estate registry, demonstrates how Saudi Arabia is modernizing property governance. It brings ease of use, traceability, and accountability to the process.
By inviting public input, the government is showing transparency and openness to feedback. As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its housing supply, tourism zones, and foreign investment, these new rules will play a key role in deepening market liquidity and strengthening the Kingdom’s global real estate appeal.
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