Updated regulatory guide

Real estate ownership by non-Saudis in Saudi Arabia

A practical guide for residents, non-residents, and Premium Residency holders, explaining the difference between ownership eligibility and Real Estate Owner Residency.

Last reviewed: 19 July 2026Sources: Saudi government authorities
1

Who may own?

Saudi resident

Residents apply through the official portal using their iqama number. A lawful resident may also own one home outside the designated geographic zones, except in Makkah and Madinah, subject to applicable rules.

Non-resident individual

Before ownership, a non-resident must obtain an approved digital identity, open a Saudi bank account in their name, and obtain a Saudi mobile number linked to the digital identity.

Companies and entities

The route depends on the legal form and may require prior registration with the Ministry of Investment or another competent authority.

2

Where is ownership allowed?

The law permits ownership across the Kingdom subject to approved zones, rights, percentages, and controls. Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah have specifically mapped geographic zones on the official portal.

Makkah and Madinah

Ownership by a natural person in the two holy cities is limited to Muslims and to the approved zones. Always verify the parcel on the official map.

Open the official zone map
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Practical ownership journey

  1. Confirm your legal category.
  2. Check the approved zone, right type, and ownership limit.
  3. Complete title, registry, lien, planning, licence, and use due diligence.
  4. Prepare identity, banking, and source-of-funds documentation.
  5. Apply through the Saudi Properties portal.
  6. Complete registration with the Real Estate Registry.
4

Premium Residency and Real Estate Owner Residency

The non-Saudi ownership law does not remove better rights available under Premium Residency. However, buying property does not automatically grant Premium Residency.

Property ownership

A real right governed by the ownership law, geographic zones, and registration rules. It does not itself grant immigration benefits.

Real Estate Owner Residency

A separate Premium Residency product. Current published criteria include completed residential real estate valued at least SAR 4 million, free from mortgages and real-estate financing, with an accredited valuation. Residency remains linked to qualifying ownership or usufruct.

Confirm current criteria and fees with the Premium Residency Center when applying.

5

Pre-purchase checklist

Identity and legal category Geographic-zone verification Title or registry record Liens and restrictions Planning and permitted use Advertising licence and brokerage agreement Valuation where required Banking and source of funds Taxes, fees, and total cost Independent legal review
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