TL; DR: Saudi Arabia allowed foreigners to buy property in designated areas like Riyadh and Jeddah from January 2026. The Rega will define the eligible areas and publish detailed rules within 180 days. Mecca and Medina are limited to only long term leases (not owned)It is necessary to buy a valid ekma or premium residency. 5% of real estate transactions implemented on purchase. Foreign companies and individuals can buy. Property shopping is to be completed through digital platforms such as Absher and is registered under Rega.
Who can buy
- Foreign individuals and companies will be allowed to buy property. You will need to meet specific terms, but you will not need to be a Saudi citizen.
- If you are a premium residency holder or GCC National, you are already allowed property under certain conditions.
Where can you buy
- The law will allow purchases at places such as Riyadh, Jeddah and other areas, which will be declared soon.
- You cannot buy property in Mecca or Medina, but long -term leases (up to 99 years) may be possible in those cities.
The Real Estate General Authority (Rega) will release the final list of regions and rules before January 2026. They will also open a public response process on a platform called istitaa.
How to buy property as a migrant
Here is a basic framework that expects the process to work:
- Check your eligibility – you will need a valid residency permit (ikama) or business license.
- Choose a property in an approved area.
- Apply for permits through Saudi’s official digital platforms such as Absher.
- Get withdrawal from Rega and possibly from the Ministry of Internal or Investment.
- Sign the deal and register ownership.
- Pay 5% property transactions tax.
- Keep in mind: The rules for financing, taxes and other approval may vary depending on the type of zone and property.
Why does it matter
Real Estate is now a growing part of Saudi Arabia’s economy. The new law means that even more by attracting outside buyers and encouraging development in major cities.It also brings Saudi rules that are already allowed in countries such as the UAE and Qatar, where expats are capable of purchasing property for years.
Things to take care
- You cannot just buy anywhere. Specific areas will be named.
- Mecca and Medina remain off-lymph for freehold ownership.
- Government approval should be one before completing a deal.
- The law begins in January 2026, but the details will be revealed first.
- Digital tools like Absher will be used to handle most paperwork.
questions to ask
Q. Can foreigners now buy property in Saudi Arabia?not yet. The law applies in January 2026.Q. Can I buy in Mecca or Medina?No, but you may be able to lease for a long time.Q. Do I need to live in Saudi Arabia to buy?Yes. You will possibly need a valid ekma or premium residency.Q. Are companies also allowed to buy property?Yes. Foreign companies can purchase property in approved areas.Q. Is a mortgage possible?This can occur, but most expats pay in cash. Saudi banks have strict lending rules.Q. What do I have to do?Most of the purchase is 5% real estate transaction tax.
