the General Real Estate Authority (REGA) announced that the Real Estate Ownership System for Non-Saudi Nationals has officially entered into force, and its provisions have begun to be implemented within the Kingdom’s real estate regulatory framework, effective as of today, Thursday 3 Sha’ban 1447 AH, corresponding to 22 January 2026.
REGA explained that applications for real estate ownership by non-Saudi nationals are received through the official digital portal “Saudi Properties”, and the service covers residents inside the Kingdom and non-residents, in addition to non-Saudi companies and entities, in accordance with specific legal controls and procedures.
REGA further clarified that the beneficiary journey varies depending on the ownership category. Residents inside the Kingdom are able to apply directly through the portal using their Iqama number, with automated verification of eligibility requirements and completion of all procedures electronically. For non-residents, the journey begins through Saudi representations and embassies abroad to issue a digital identity, enabling the completion of the ownership application through the portal. Meanwhile, non-Saudi companies and entities with no presence in the Kingdom and wishing to own real estate must first register with the Ministry of Investment through the “Invest Saudi” platform and obtain the Unified Number (700), before completing ownership procedures electronically.
REGA emphasized that the system enables non-Saudi individuals, companies, and entities to own real estate across different regions of the Kingdom. It regulates ownership in the cities of Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as in Makkah and Madinah, within a clear regulatory framework based on the Geographical Zones Document, which will be announced during the first quarter of 2026. REGA also noted that ownership in the two holy cities is restricted to Saudi companies and Muslim individuals, whether residing inside or outside the Kingdom.
REGA also highlighted that the “Saudi Properties” portal is the official accredited digital platform for implementing the Real Estate Ownership System for Non-Saudi Nationals. It enables prospective owners to complete their procedures and verify compliance with regulatory requirements through a streamlined journey directly integrated with the Real Estate Registration System, thereby enhancing transparency and protecting rights.
The Authority added that the system aims to improve the quality of real estate projects by attracting international developers and leading companies, stimulating growth across residential, commercial, industrial, and tourism sectors, and contributing to the creation of broad employment opportunities for Saudi citizens in real estate activities associated with development and urban growth. This will support the sustainable contribution of the real estate sector to the non-oil GDP.
REGA invited those interested in ownership to visit the official “Saudi Properties” portal via:
saudiproperties.rega.gov.sa, or to contact the Authority through its official channels.
